Former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua has paid an emotional tribute to two of his close friends, Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele, who died in a car crash on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway on December 29, 2025. Joshua, 36, took to X on Thursday to express his grief and thank fans for their support, while reflecting on the lives of his late friends.
“100% it’s tough for me, but I know it’s even tougher for their parents. I have a strong mind, and I believe God knows their hearts. May God have mercy on my brothers,” Joshua wrote. He added that he had not fully realized the loss, noting the special bond he shared with Ghami and Ayodele.
The tragedy occurred when a black Lexus SUV, driven by 46-year-old Adeniyi Kayode, collided with the back of a stationary truck carrying soya beans. Joshua and Kayode escaped with minor injuries, while Ghami and Ayodele were killed. Kayode was charged with dangerous driving causing death, reckless and negligent driving, driving without a license, and driving without due care; his trial is scheduled for January 20, with bail set at 5 million Naira (£2,580).
Joshua also spoke with UFC star Kamaru Usman in a now-deleted video recorded during the African Knockout Championship in Lagos, revealing the emotional impact of the loss while recovering from injuries sustained in the crash. Despite the tragedy, Joshua returned to the United Kingdom to attend the funerals of Ghami and Ayodele, held at London Central Mosque on January 4.
Sources close to the boxer indicate that Joshua has decided to retire from professional boxing following the accident. Ayodele, a personal trainer known online as “Healthy Mindset,” had been a long-time friend of Joshua, while Ghami frequently supported him during training and fights, including his December 19 bout against Jake Paul in Miami.
Joshua’s tribute reflects the deep personal loss and marks a somber moment for the boxing community as he steps away from the sport.
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