Anthony Joshua has returned to the UK from Nigeria for the cruellest of reasons — the funeral of Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami, two of his closest friends who lost their lives in a car crash in which the two-time heavyweight champ was injured.
The three men were being driven in Lagos on Monday when their car collided with a stationary truck, leaving ‘AJ’ requiring medical treatment but tragically killing personal trainer, Ayodele, and strength coach, Ghami. Joshua was discharged from hospital on Wednesday and is now home. Those who know his character won’t be surprised to see his first stop was with those closest to ‘Latz’ and Sina.
Posting on Instagram, he shared two pictures alongside the message “My Brother’s Keeper”, highlighting what he sees as his moral duty to care for others.
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Tributes to Ayodele and Ghami from the boxing community, as well as wishes of recovery for ‘AJ’, have been overwhelming, with the likes of Tyson Fury, Wladimir Klitschko and Oleksandr Usyk sending messages of support. Joshua’s latest opponent, Jake Paul, through his promotional company MVP, paid tribute with a bespoke message on the canvas of their Puerto Rico show last night.
A Janaza prayer for Ayodele, known as Latz, is expected to take place at London Central Mosque this morning. A separate funeral service for Ghami will be held from noon. A wake for both individuals will reportedly follow in north-west London.
Boxing News extends its condolences to the families and loved ones of Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele, and wishes Anthony Joshua a full recovery during this difficult time.
