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Matchroom promoter pays tribute as boxing world rallies around Joshua following tragic accident in Nigeria.
Matchroom Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn has expressed deep sorrow over the deaths of Anthony Joshua’s close friends and team members, Sina Ghami and Latif “Latz” Ayodele, who were killed in a car crash in Nigeria.
The fatal incident occurred on Monday near Lagos when the vehicle carrying Ghami, Ayodele, heavyweight boxing star Anthony Joshua, and another passenger collided with a stationary truck on a major highway. Joshua survived the crash.
Hearn, who has promoted Joshua since he turned professional after winning Olympic gold at the London 2012 Games, paid an emotional tribute to the two men, describing them as loyal and integral members of the former world champion’s inner circle.
According to BBC Sport, Hearn wrote on Instagram on Wednesday:
“Rest in peace Latz and Sina.
Your energy and loyalty, among so many other great qualities, will be deeply missed.
Praying for strength and guidance for all their family, friends, and of course AJ during this tough time.”
Confirming the incident, Ogun State Police spokesperson Oluseyi Babaseyi told the BBC that investigations into the crash are ongoing. He added that the process remains “discreet” as authorities work to establish full details of the accident.
Ghami served as Joshua’s full-time sport and exercise rehabilitation coach and had worked closely with the boxer for more than a decade. Ayodele, popularly known as “Latz,” was a long-time friend and personal trainer.
Just hours before the crash, Joshua had shared a video on Instagram showing him playing table tennis with Ayodele—footage that has since taken on a poignant significance.
Tributes have poured in from across the boxing world. Two-time undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk and former British heavyweight champion Tyson Fury both shared condolence messages via Instagram Stories.
Retired cruiserweight world champion Tony Bellew also expressed his grief on X (formerly Twitter), writing:
“Thoughts and prayers to the families of these men. Tragic losses in horrific circumstances.
I hope he (Joshua) is able to process this with time because there is no pain in life worse than grief.”
The tragedy has cast a shadow over the boxing community, with fans and fellow fighters alike offering support to Joshua and the bereaved families during an immensely difficult period.
