Two-time heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua lost two of his closest friends in a tragic car accident in Ogun State, Nigeria, on Monday, December 29, 2025.

The fatal crash occurred on a busy highway in Makun, just hours after Joshua and his associates had reportedly spent time playing tennis together.

Reports indicate that the vehicle he was travelling in collided with a stationary truck, an incident that tragically claimed the lives of two people. Joshua reportedly sustained minor injuries.

Joshua’s two friends, Kevin Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami, have been confirmed dead, as they could not survive the injuries sustained in the crash. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances of the accident.

Anthony Joshua’s coach and close friend among accident fatalities - Reports

This article provides information about the two personalities who died in the accident:

Sina Ghami

Sina had been working with Anthony Joshua for over a decade as his full-time sports and rehabilitation coach, guiding him through the requisite drills before bouts.

He was a qualified sports and exercise rehabilitator specialising in musculoskeletal injuries and corrective exercise, recognised internationally.

Ghami prepared Joshua for his title-winning match against Wladimir Klitschko in 2017, which made headlines and propelled him to global fame, as well as his recent high-stakes victory over Jake Paul.

The sports rehabilitation expert also worked with NBA star Jamal Green and NFL players Jerel Worthy and BJ Cunningham.

He collaborated with athletes in the National Football League (NFL), National Basketball Association (NBA), and Michigan State University’s football team.

Latif Ayodele

Ayodele was a close friend of Anthony Joshua long before the boxer gained fame and began winning world titles.

He supported Joshua by helping him train his physique and offering expert advice on key aspects of his boxing career.

Ayodele also had a footballing background, having played for Aylesbury United, Tooting & Mitcham United, Hillingdon Borough, AFC Hayes, Chalfont Wasps, and Northwood.

Just hours before the fatal accident, Joshua posted a video on Instagram playing table tennis with his long-time friend, sharing joyful moments.

In memory of Ayodele, a fundraiser has been set up to build a mosque, which has so far raised £37,000.

SB/BAI

Meanwhile, watch as Acting Defence Minister Ato Forson inaugurates a 9-member Ministerial Advisory Board