Anthony Joshua Breaks Silence on Tragic Nigeria Accident in Emotional Video Message
Former heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua has finally broken his silence regarding the fatal car accident that occurred in Nigeria last December, sharing a deeply personal video message with his fans and supporters worldwide. The 36-year-old British-Nigerian boxer spoke openly about the emotional and mental toll of the past month following the tragic incident that claimed the lives of two men who were instrumental in his life both inside and outside the ring.
Joshua Confirms Details of December 29 Crash Near Lagos
In his first extended public comments about the tragedy, Joshua confirmed that his personal trainer Latif "Latz" Ayodele and recovery therapist Sina Ghami died in the crash on December 29. The accident occurred when their vehicle collided with a stationary truck near Lagos, Nigeria. Joshua himself suffered minor injuries in the collision and subsequently returned to the United Kingdom, where he has been focusing on both physical rehabilitation and mental healing processes.
The boxer described how what began as a hopeful trip home to Nigeria turned into sudden, devastating loss. "We had so many plans to wrap up 2025, and we were on a mission," Joshua explained in the emotional video. "We went back home, went to see our families, and everything just got flipped upside on its head."
Heartfelt Tribute to Fallen Friends and Brothers
Fighting back tears throughout the video, Joshua made it clear that Ayodele and Ghami were far more than just members of his training team. "They're my brothers, they're my friends first and foremost," he revealed, explaining that the trio had become housemates who built their lives together. "We became housemates, we were living together," Joshua shared, highlighting the depth of their personal connection.
Joshua spoke about the profound scale of the loss, noting that "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." He addressed his supporters directly, saying: "I could reach out to all of you far and wide, worldwide who are showing so much love, care, support through that tragic, traumatic time where we lost Latz and Sina in Nigeria."
Reflections on Mortality and Continuing the Mission
One of the most powerful moments in Joshua's message came when he reflected on mortality and the afterlife. "One day my time will come, and I'm not scared either at all," he stated. "It's actually comforting knowing that I've got two brothers on the other side."
The former champion admitted that this grief feels different from any previous losses he has experienced. "I've lost people before, but I don't think I've lost people like that, my left and my right," Joshua confessed, emphasizing how integral Ayodele and Ghami were to his daily life and career.
Despite the overwhelming emotional weight, Joshua expressed his determination to continue what they started together. "The mission must go on... I understand my duty," he declared with conviction. "I'm gonna do what's right by them. I'm gonna do what's right by their family."
Moving Forward Amid Legal Proceedings and Personal Healing
As legal proceedings continue against the driver involved in the accident, Joshua remains focused on honoring his friends while rebuilding his own life. The boxer continues to train and recover, balancing his professional commitments with the personal healing process.
Joshua closed his emotional message with words of compassion for others facing similar pain, demonstrating resilience in the face of profound tragedy. His video represents not just a personal catharsis but also a public acknowledgment of the deep bonds that extend beyond the boxing ring, highlighting the human connections that shape athletes' lives both during and after their competitive careers.
