World-renowned boxer Anthony Joshua is grappling with a profound personal tragedy after surviving a horrific car accident in Nigeria that claimed the lives of two of his closest friends. The incident occurred just before Christmas, casting a shadow over what was meant to be a celebratory visit to his parents' homeland.
A Tragic End to a Holiday
Anthony Joshua was in Nigeria, having recently celebrated his knockout victory over YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul. While on vacation in the country where his parents were born, tragedy struck. The boxer was involved in a severe road accident near Lagos when the black Lexus SUV he was travelling in collided with a parked lorry on a major highway.
Miraculously, Joshua and the driver, 47-year-old Adeniyi Kayode, escaped serious injury. However, the passenger side of the vehicle was ripped open in the impact. Joshua's long-time friends and fitness team members, personal trainer Kevin 'Latz' Latif Ayodele and fitness coach Sina Ghami, both aged 36, were killed instantly.
Legal Repercussions and a Plea for Privacy
The aftermath of the crash has moved from the road to the courtroom. The driver, Adeniyi Kayode, a father-of-three, has been formally charged. He appeared before a magistrate in Sagamu facing accusations of dangerous driving causing death, reckless and negligent driving, and driving without a valid licence.
If found guilty on all counts, Kayode could potentially face a life sentence. Authorities also reported that the driver of the red truck, which was parked by the highway to unload soybeans, fled the scene and remains on the run. Kayode's trial has been adjourned and is now scheduled to resume on January 20.
In the wake of the tragedy, Joshua's promoter, Eddie Hearn, offered a sombre update. Speaking to talkSPORT, Hearn made an emotional plea for the boxer to be given space to heal. "I think, to be honest, at this stage, it’s definitely a no comment from us. Just because of the respect for Anthony," Hearn stated. He emphasised that Joshua needs "time and privacy" to process the loss both physically and emotionally, confirming that all career discussions are on hold.
Joshua Breaks His Silence
Following the accident, Anthony Joshua returned to the UK and attended the funerals of his departed friends. Before the services, he broke his silence on social media, sharing a heartfelt tribute. On Instagram, he posted two pictures that appeared to show him with the relatives of Latz and Sina. He captioned the poignant post with the simple yet powerful words, "My brothers keeper."
The boxing world now waits with respect and sympathy as one of its biggest stars navigates this period of immense grief. The focus remains squarely on Anthony Joshua's well-being as he mourns the devastating loss of his two friends in the fatal smash in Nigeria.
