Anthony Joshua released a statement, via his team, confirming the deaths of his team members Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele after a horror car crash in Nigeria. The former two-time world heavyweight champion, 36, was travelling in the back of a black Lexus with his team when the SUV hit a stationary truck on a busy highway in Makun, Ogun State.

Joshua suffered minor injuries and was taken to hospital for treatment, while two passengers, now named as Ghami and Ayodele, died. Another passenger was also injured. The Ogun State government said that “preliminary reports indicate that two male foreign nationals died on the spot”.

An official spokesperson for Joshua then said in a statement: “It is with the deepest and most profound sadness that we confirm, following a road traffic accident in Lagos Nigeria earlier today, the death of Sina Ghami and Kevin ‘Lateef’ Ayodele.

“Both were close friends and integral members of Anthony’s team. We respectfully ask that space and privacy be given to the families at this time while they process this truly shocking and devastating news.”

Matchroom Sport, Joshua’s promoter, also issued a statement that read: “Anthony Joshua was involved in a road traffic accident in Lagos, Nigeria, earlier today.

“With profound sadness it has been confirmed that two close friends and team members Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele have tragically passed away.

“Matchroom Boxing and 258 BXG can confirm that Anthony sustained injuries in the accident and was taken to hospital for checks and treatment. He is in a stable condition and will remain there for observation.

“Our deepest condolences and prayers are with the families and friends of all those affected – and we ask that their privacy is respected at this incredibly difficult time.

“No further comment will be made at this time.”

Both Ghami and Ayodele worked closely with Joshua and were thought to be close friends.

Ghami was Joshua’s strength and conditioning coach for over a decade and also co-founded Evolve Gym in London. He was a qualified sports and exercise rehabilitator who specialises in musculoskeletal injuries and corrective exercise.

The coach had also worked with players in the NFL and NBA.

Latif ‘Latz’ Ayodele was Joshua’s personal trainer and regularly posted about his passion for fitness on Instagram.