British boxing star Anthony Joshua has been involved in a serious and fatal car crash in Nigeria, just ten days after his decisive victory against Jake Paul in Miami. The incident occurred on the busy Lagos-Ibadan expressway when the former heavyweight champion’s vehicle collided with a stationary truck. In a devastating update, an official spokesperson has confirmed the deaths of two close friends and team members, Sina Ghami and Kevin ‘Lateef’ Ayodele.
According to local reports, Joshua sustained minor injuries and was seen walking at the crash site. His promoter, Eddie Hearn, confirmed the boxer is in stable condition. The shocking news and tragic loss of life cast a profound shadow over what had been a celebratory period following his high-profile win and adds immediate uncertainty to his planned boxing career trajectory.
Official Statement Confirms Tragic Loss of Team Members
An official spokesperson for Anthony Joshua released the following 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.”
The statement continued,
“We respectfully ask that space and privacy be given to the families at this time while they process this truly shocking and devastating news.”
This confirmation moves the story beyond a personal accident for Joshua to a profound tragedy for his inner circle, underscoring the devastating human cost of the collision.
Crash Details and Investigation
The accident took place on a major Nigerian highway. Eyewitness accounts and circulated video show significant damage to the vehicles involved. Joshua was reportedly travelling with a small convoy at the time.
Local police and emergency services responded to the scene. While Joshua received medical attention, the focus has rightly shifted to the families of the deceased. An investigation into the exact cause of the collision is underway by Nigerian authorities.
Impact on Joshua’s Fighting Future and Planned Fury Bout
The timing of the crash is particularly jarring, coming on the heels of Joshua’s dominant TKO win over Jake Paul on December 19. That victory was meant to set the stage for the long-awaited, historic super-fight against Tyson Fury, tentatively targeted for 2026.
This tragic incident inevitably places those plans in serious doubt. While Joshua’s physical injuries are described as minor, the emotional trauma of losing two close friends in such a sudden manner will require significant time. The mental readiness to return to a gruelling training camp for the biggest fight of his life is now a major question, likely delaying the Fury vs Joshua megafight.
A Period of Mourning After a Career Highlight
Anthony Joshua was in Nigeria visiting family during the holiday season, reconnecting with his roots. What should have been a period of rest and celebration after a career-reaffirming victory has now been shattered by tragedy.
The boxing world’s thoughts are with the families of Sina Ghami and Kevin ‘Lateef’ Ayodele. For Anthony Joshua and his team, the focus now shifts entirely to mourning, support, and processing this devastating loss.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who died in the car crash with Anthony Joshua?
An official spokesperson confirmed the deaths of two of Joshua’s close friends and team members: Sina Ghami and Kevin ‘Lateef’ Ayodele.
Is Anthony Joshua okay after the car crash?
Physically, yes. According to his promoter Eddie Hearn, Joshua sustained minor injuries and is in stable condition. The emotional impact of losing two friends is profound.
Where did the crash happen?
The fatal accident occurred on the Lagos-Ibadan expressway in Nigeria.
How will this affect the planned Anthony Joshua vs. Tyson Fury fight?
It is highly likely to cause a significant postponement. The emotional trauma and necessary period of mourning mean the tentatively scheduled fight with Tyson Fury is now in serious doubt for the foreseeable future.
What has Anthony Joshua’s team said?
An official spokesperson released a statement expressing “deepest and most profound sadness” and asked for privacy for the families of the deceased during this devastating time.
