British heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua has been discharged from a hospital in Lagos, Nigeria, days after a fatal car accident that claimed the lives of two of his closest friends and team members. Ogun and Lagos state authorities issued a joint statement describing the former world champion as “heavy hearted” over the loss of Sina Ghami and Latif “Latz” Ayodele, underlining the emotional toll the tragedy has taken on Joshua and his inner circle. The boxer, who had been receiving medical attention following the crash, was deemed fit to recuperate at home, bringing a small measure of relief amid a period of mourning.
The accident occurred in the early hours of Monday near Jinack village in the North Bank Region of Ogun State, on a major expressway connecting Lagos and the northern parts of the state. Joshua was a passenger in a Lexus SUV that collided with a stationary truck, according to statements by local authorities. Preliminary investigations by the Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency (TRACE) indicate that the vehicle may have suffered a burst tyre prior to the collision, although officials have emphasized that inquiries remain ongoing and the investigation process is being conducted discreetly.
Sina Ghami, who died in the accident, had been Joshua’s full-time sport and exercise rehabilitation coach for more than a decade. Over the years, Ghami worked closely with the heavyweight champion to maintain his peak physical condition, playing a pivotal role in his training, recovery, and overall career development. Latif “Latz” Ayodele, also among the deceased, was a trusted member of Joshua’s team, providing logistical and personal support throughout the boxer’s professional journey. Their deaths have left a profound void in Joshua’s personal and professional life, and colleagues have described the loss as devastating.
Following his discharge from hospital on Wednesday, Joshua visited the funeral home where the bodies of his two friends were being prepared for repatriation. The visit, confirmed by Ogun and Lagos state authorities, allowed Joshua to pay his respects privately and make arrangements for the return of the bodies to their families. Officials noted that while the process remains sensitive, it is being handled with the utmost care and respect for the deceased and their families.
Prominent figures in the boxing world have expressed shock and sorrow over the tragedy. Eddie Hearn, Joshua’s long-time promoter, posted a tribute on Instagram, saying: “Rest in peace Latz and Sina. Your energy and loyalty among so many other great qualities will be deeply missed. Praying for strength and guidance for all their family, friends and of course AJ during this very difficult time.” Hearn’s message reflects the close professional and personal bonds shared between Joshua and his team members over many years.
Retired cruiserweight world champion Tony Bellew also extended his condolences on social media, describing the accident as a “tragic loss in horrific circumstances” and expressing hope that Joshua would be able to process the grief with time. Similarly, former heavyweight champions Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk shared messages on Instagram to offer support and sympathy, highlighting the global attention and solidarity within the boxing community following the fatal crash.
Joshua, 36, was in Nigeria on holiday after his December 19 victory over Jake Paul in Miami, marking the end of a busy year in the ring. His presence in the country had been a chance to reconnect with family and friends, and the accident occurred while he was enjoying a brief respite from professional obligations. The timing of the tragedy has compounded the emotional impact, as Joshua had been celebrating both personal and professional milestones when the crash occurred.
Ogun State police spokesperson Oluseyi Babaseyi confirmed to the BBC that investigations into the accident are still ongoing, noting that the authorities are handling the matter discreetly to protect the privacy of those affected. TRACE officials added that the vehicle appeared to have experienced a mechanical issue prior to the collision, though a full technical assessment is being conducted to determine the exact cause of the crash. Authorities emphasized that findings will be released once investigations are complete.
The incident has drawn widespread attention from both the public and the sporting community. Fans, fellow athletes, and media outlets across Nigeria, the United Kingdom, and beyond have expressed condolences, highlighting the close connection Joshua maintains with supporters and colleagues worldwide. Social media platforms have been flooded with messages of sympathy, reflecting the profound impact of the loss on those who have followed his career and life.
As Joshua continues to grieve the deaths of his friends, the boxing world has rallied around him, offering support and understanding during a period marked by both personal and professional challenges.