The two men who died in the car crash in Nigeria on Monday that injured former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua were his “close friends and team members.”
Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele were killed when the SUV they were riding in with Joshua and another passenger collided with a stationary truck on a major highway near Lagos, according to the boxer’s promoters.
“With profound sadness it has been confirmed that two close friends and team members Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele have tragically passed away,” read a statement by the promoters.
“Matchroom Boxing and 258 BXG can confirm that Anthony sustained injuries in the accident and was taken to hospital for checks and treatment. He is in a stable condition and will remain there for observation.
“Our deepest condolences and prayers are with the families and friends of all those affected — and we ask that their privacy is respected at this incredibly difficult time.”
Ghami was Joshua’s sport and exercise rehabilitation coach and had worked with the two-time heavyweight champ for more than 10 years. He has also worked with Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green and former NFL running back Le’Veon Bell, per reports.
Ayodele was a long-time friend and a personal trainer for Joshua, who knocked out Jake Paul in the sixth round of their Dec. 19 match in Miami.
“They are with him all the time,” boxing expert Steve Bunce told BBC Radio of Ghami and Ayodele.
“He calls them his boys. They’re more than that. They are friends. They may have strict jobs, they might be his strength and conditioning coach, his personal trainer, his dietitian, his nutritionist, but they’re close and he loves that close circle.
“Sina and Latz are massive parts of the Anthony Joshua machine.”
Joshua, 36, was born in England but has family roots in Nigeria, where he was reportedly on vacation after he improved to 29-4 (26 knockouts) with the victory against Paul.
–Field Level Media
