The two individuals who tragically lost their lives in a car crash involving Anthony Joshua have been identified as Latif ‘Latz’ Ayodele and Sina Ghami. Joshua, the 36-year-old two-time heavyweight boxing champion, was also hospitalised with minor injuries following the incident.

Joshua was involved in a car crash on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway along with four others. The Federal Road Safety Corps of Nigeria’s initial report stated that the accident occurred when a black Lexus Jeep, carrying Joshua as a passenger, collided with a stationary red commercial Sinotruck.

In total, five adult males were involved in the collision.

An official spokesperson for Joshua released a statement saying: “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.”

The FRSC further noted that the Jeep, “which was suspected to be travelling beyond the legally prescribed speed limit,” lost control while overtaking and crashed into the stationary truck parked by the side of the road.

Ayodele, better known as Latz, and Ghami, died at the scene, whilst Joshua was rushed to hospital for medical care.

Two additional passengers in the vehicle escaped the collision without major injury.

In the hours following the tragic incident, numerous individuals have turned to social media platforms to pay their respects to the pair who were close companions of Joshua.

Chris Eubank Jr said: “Thank god our heavyweight champ survived that horrible car crash. And pray for the two fallen soldiers Latz and Sina and their families. I knew both…they were genuinely good men. Rest in Peace boys.”

Tam Khan posted on X: “Prayers with both their families during this devastating time,” whilst sharing photographs of both gentlemen.

Joshua’s latest opponent, Jake Paul, also took to X to declare: “Life is much more important than boxing. I am praying for the lost lives, AJ and anyone impacted by today’s unfortunate accident.”

Paul subsequently added: “RIP Sina Ghami and Kevin ‘Latif / Latz’ Ayodele. My thoughts and prayers are with their families and friends and AJ.”

Badou Jack expressed his shock on Instagram, writing: “Still in shock! Inna lillahi wa inna lilayhi rajioon. May Allah forgive you for your shortcomings and grant you the highest level of paradise @healthy_mindset.”

Mutah Beale also shared his condolences on the platform, stating: “From Allah we belong to Allah we return, sad and shocking news about the death of our dear brother Abdul-Latif resulting from a car crash, May Allah have mercy on him and grant him Jannah, and May Allah make this difficult time easy for his family. We also wish a speedy recovery for the champ.”

Misfits Boxing star Slim Albaher paid a heartfelt tribute, saying: “Sending prayers for Anthony Joshua and for the two brothers who tragically passed away in the car accident. I can’t believe Latz was one of the guys involved…he was such a good soul and a supportive brother. Allah Yerhamu, may Allah grant Latz and Sina Jannah.”

Eddie Hearn added: “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.”

Ayodele served not only as Joshua’s personal trainer but is also believed to have been a close friend of the heavyweight.

Meanwhile, Ghami functioned as AJ’s strength and conditioning specialist.

He was seen alongside Joshua assisting with preparations for his Miami bout against Paul on Saturday, December 19.

The Co-founder of Evolve Gym, Ghami, had been integral to Team Joshua for over ten years, having previously collaborated with Pittsburgh Steelers’ Le’Veon Bell and Golden State Warriors’ Draymond Green.