British-Nigerian boxer and former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua has spoken publicly for the first time since the tragic road accident of December 29, 2025, that claimed the lives of two of his close friends along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway and left him injured. In an emotional video posted on his official Instagram page on Thursday, Joshua opened up about the loss of Latif Ayodele, popularly known as Latz, and Gami Sina, describing them as his “brothers” and expressing deep grief over the incident that abruptly altered their end-of-year plans.
“So this is the best way I could reach out to all of you, far and wide, worldwide, who were showing so much love, care, support through that tragic, traumatic time where we lost Latz and Sina in Nigeria,” Joshua said in the video, his voice reflecting both pain and gratitude. The boxer explained that he had been overwhelmed by the outpouring of concern from fans, friends, and supporters across the globe and felt compelled to address them directly.
The accident occurred on December 29, 2025, when Joshua and his friends were traveling along the busy Lagos–Ibadan Expressway. The crash claimed the lives of 36-year-old Latif Ayodele and 36-year-old Gami Sina at the scene, while Joshua was pulled from the wreckage and rushed for urgent medical attention. The sudden tragedy sent shockwaves through both sporting and social circles, given the boxer’s prominence and the closeness he shared with the deceased.
Reflecting on the events leading up to the accident, Joshua revealed that the group had earlier made plans to conclude the year together after spending time abroad. “The last time I spoke to you guys was in Miami. We had so many plans to wrap up 2025, and we were on a mission. We went back home, went to see our families, and everything just got flipped upside on its head,” he said, underscoring how swiftly the situation changed from celebration to tragedy.
Joshua emphasized how deeply the deaths of Latz and Sina had affected not only him but also their extended families and loved ones. “Not only did their parents, their uncles, their cousins, their friends, and myself lose like two great men, we lost people that we dearly care about. They were major players in all of our lives,” he said, noting the wide network of people whose lives were touched by the two men.
Describing the bond they shared, Joshua added, “They’re my brothers, they’re my friends first and foremost, and then we became business partners. We became everything.” His words highlighted that their relationship extended beyond friendship into shared ventures and long-term plans that now remain painfully unfinished.
Despite the grief, Joshua said he remains determined to support the families left behind. “I understand my duty. I understand what they wanted to do for their families, so my goal is to continue to help them achieve their goals, even though they may not be here in the physical,” he said. He stressed that his commitment is driven not by public image but by personal conviction.
“It ain’t about legacy. It’s just doing what’s right, and I know what I’m going to do — what’s right for them and what’s right for their family,” Joshua added, reinforcing his intention to stand by the loved ones of his late friends in practical and meaningful ways in the months and years ahead.
In the caption accompanying the video, Joshua wrote: “A short message from the heart. My brother’s keeper for life.” The message resonated widely among his followers, many of whom had been waiting for an update from the boxer since news of the accident first broke.
Joshua also used the opportunity to express heartfelt appreciation to the individuals and institutions that responded swiftly after the crash. “I want to take a moment to show a massive amount of appreciation to the first responders, to everyone who rushed to help Latz and Sina, to those who helped me get to the hospital, and to all the locals who prayed for us at the scene,” he wrote.
He specifically thanked the medical team at Lagoon Hospital, Ikoyi, naming Dr Ogunyankin, Dr Tosin Majekodunmi, and Dr Ninalowo for their care and professionalism during a critical period. Joshua was initially treated at Duchess International Hospital after being rescued from the wreckage before further medical support and coordination took place.
The boxer further acknowledged the support he received from public officials and prominent figures who assisted in the aftermath of the crash. He mentioned the British Deputy High Commissioner and Deputy Head of Mission, Simon Field, as well as business leaders Femi Otedola and Aliko Dangote for providing logistical support during the difficult period. “Without you guys, the transition back to the UK wouldn’t have been as smooth,” he said.
Joshua also extended gratitude to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, President Bola Tinubu, and senior security officials for their personal involvement and follow-ups. “Thank you so much for your personal involvement, daily follow-ups and all your efforts,” he said, acknowledging the level of attention the incident received at the highest levels.
Meanwhile, legal proceedings related to the accident are ongoing. The driver involved in the crash, Adeniyi Kayode, 46, has appeared before a magistrate’s court in Sagamu, Ogun State. The presiding magistrate, Olajumoke Somefu, adjourned the case until February 25 after the prosecution requested time to forward the case file to the Ogun State Attorney-General’s Office through the Department of Public Prosecutions for legal advice.
In a further development, Joshua’s uncle has reportedly stated that the boxer would not want the driver to be jailed over the incident, suggesting a stance of forgiveness amid the tragedy.