Tragedy in Ogun: Anthony Joshua Crash Victims Identified as Close Friend and Trainer

In a heartbreaking development that has sent shockwaves through the global boxing community, the identities of the two men who lost their lives in the car crash involving former two-time heavyweight world champion Anthony Joshua in Nigeria have been confirmed. The deceased have been named as Sina Ghami and Kevin “Latif” Ayodele, better known within Joshua’s inner circle as Sina and Latz — both more than just travelling companions, but trusted members of his team and close personal friends.

The fatal crash occurred on Monday, December 29, 2025, along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway — one of Nigeria’s busiest highways — when the Lexus SUV carrying Joshua and four others collided with a stationary truck near Makun, Ogun State. Preliminary investigations by the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) indicate the vehicle may have been travelling above the speed limit and lost control during an overtaking manoeuvre shortly before the collision, though full official findings are still pending.

According to statements from the Ogun State Government and multiple news reports, 36-year-old Sina Ghami was Joshua’s long-time strength and conditioning coach. Ghami, often referred to by his social media handle Sina Evolve, played a crucial role in preparing Joshua physically for some of the toughest bouts of his career, including his recent high-profile win over Jake Paul in Miami just days earlier. Beyond boxing, Ghami was a respected fitness professional and co-founder of London’s Evolve Gym, known for his work with elite athletes across different sports.

Also killed in the crash was Kevin Latif Ayodele, affectionately known as Latz, a personal trainer and close friend of Joshua. Ayodele was widely recognised within the fitness community, particularly for his Healthy Mindset philosophy promoting holistic physical and mental well-being. The British-based trainer had worked closely with Joshua for years, forging a bond that went far beyond professional duties. Friends and colleagues described him as not just a trainer but a confidant and constant support in Joshua’s life.

Both men, identified as British nationals, were pronounced dead at the scene, and their remains have been taken to the Livewell Morgue in Sagamu as part of the ongoing investigation. Joshua, seated in the rear of the SUV at the time of the crash, sustained minor injuries and was rushed to a Lagos hospital, where he remains in stable condition under observation. Another passenger also survived; only the two front-seat occupants lost their lives.

News of the tragedy sparked an immediate outpouring of grief and outrage across social media and from the boxing world. Fellow fighters and fans alike shared tributes to Sina and Latz, emphasising their significant contributions behind the scenes. Chris Eubank Jr. took to social media to express his sorrow, calling both men “fallen soldiers” and praying for their families. Jake Paul, Joshua’s recent opponent, wrote that “life is much more important than boxing,” offering prayers for Joshua and everyone impacted by the accident.

The Nigerian government also weighed in. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu confirmed that he had spoken directly with Joshua, offering condolences and praying for a full recovery. Tinubu’s message underlined the national attention the incident has drawn, given Joshua’s strong ties to Nigeria — he spent part of his childhood in the country and has often spoken about his Nigerian heritage with pride.

Matchroom Boxing, Joshua’s long-time promotional team, issued a statement mourning the loss of the two men, describing them as “integral members of Anthony’s team.” The statement also respectfully requested privacy for the families at this exceptionally difficult time.

Video footage from the crash site that circulated online showed the severity of the collision, with witnesses rushing to assist amid twisted metal and shattered glass. Residents gathered as emergency responders worked to pull survivors from the wreckage, and images of a dazed Joshua being attended to underscored the brutal impact of the crash.

As investigations continue, preliminary remarks from the FRSC have highlighted how dangerous overtaking at high speeds can be on Nigerian highways — a scenario that officials warn is all too common. They reiterated that such violations remain among the leading causes of fatal road accidents across the country.

The loss of Sina Ghami and Latz has resonated deeply not only with Joshua but across the global boxing landscape. Both men were behind the scenes yet central to the success and daily routines of one of the sport’s biggest stars. Their deaths are being felt as the loss of mentors, friends, and trusted companions. Many in the boxing community have already started sharing memories on social media — from gym moments to personal stories — illustrating just how profound an influence they had on those around them.

For Joshua, the road to physical recovery may be relatively straightforward, but the emotional toll of losing two people so close could prove far more challenging. Boxing insiders suggest this could be a defining moment for the fighter, both personally and professionally. Whether he chooses to step back from the sport or channel this tragedy into future fights remains to be seen, but for now, the world watches and mourns with him.

As tributes continue and investigations unfold, one thing remains clear: the crash has left an indelible mark on Anthony Joshua, the sport of boxing, and the many lives touched by Sonia Ghami and Latz Ayodele. Their contributions to the sport and their remembrance by fans and peers alike ensure their legacies will endure well beyond this tragic day.