Joshua Breaks Silence After Nigeria Crash That Killed Two Friends

British-Nigerian boxing star Anthony Joshua has spoken publicly for the first time after a road accident in Nigeria late last year claimed the lives of two of his close friends.

In an emotional video shared on his Instagram page on Thursday, the former heavyweight champion paid tribute to Latif Ayodele, popularly known as Latz, and Gami Sina, who both died in the crash.

Joshua thanked supporters around the world for their prayers and messages following what he described as a tragic and traumatic period.

“This is the best way I could reach out to all of you… who were showing so much love, care, and support through that time where we lost Latz and Sina in Nigeria,” he said.

The accident occurred on December 29, 2025, along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway. Joshua was also injured and later received medical attention.

He said the loss was especially painful because the group had planned to end the year together.

“The last time I spoke to you guys was in Miami. We had so many plans to wrap up 2025… then everything just got flipped upside down,” he said.

Joshua described the deceased as more than friends, calling them central figures in his life and the lives of many others.

“We lost two great men… They were major players in all of our lives,” he said. “They’re my brothers, my friends first and foremost, and then we became business partners.”

The boxer said he now feels a responsibility to continue supporting the families left behind.

“I understand what they wanted to do for their families, so my goal is to continue to help them achieve their goals, even though they may not be here physically,” he stated.

Reflecting on mortality, Joshua added:

“One day my time will come, and I’m not scared. It’s comforting knowing that I’ve got two brothers on the other side.”

In the caption accompanying the video, he wrote: “A short message from the heart. My brother’s keeper for life.”

Joshua also expressed gratitude to first responders, local residents who prayed at the crash scene, and medical staff who treated him, including doctors at Lagoon Hospital.

He further acknowledged support from British Deputy High Commissioner Simon Field, business leaders Femi Otedola and Aliko Dangote, as well as Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, President Bola Tinubu, and senior security officials.

The Guardian earlier reported that both victims were 36 years old. Joshua was pulled from the wreckage and taken to hospital for treatment.

Meanwhile, the driver involved in the crash, Adeniyi Kayode, 46, has appeared before a magistrate’s court in Sagamu, Ogun State. The case has been adjourned until February 25 pending legal advice from the state Attorney-General’s office.

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