British boxing star Anthony Joshua has opened up in an emotional video after a road accident in Nigeria claimed the lives of two of his closest team members, saying he does not live in fear of death even after the tragedy.
The 36‑year‑old former world heavyweight champion sustained minor injuries when the vehicle he was travelling in collided with a stationary truck on a major highway near Lagos late last year. The crash killed his personal trainer, Latif “Latz” Ayodele, and strength and conditioning coach Sina Ghami, both of whom he described as like brothers to him.
In his message, Joshua thanked supporters around the world for their overwhelming messages of love and encouragement during what he called a “tragic, traumatic time.” He said that while the loss has been deeply painful, he finds comfort in the belief that his friends are “on the other side,” and that he is not afraid of his own mortality.
The boxer also vowed to honour the hopes and dreams of Ayodele and Ghami by helping their families pursue the goals they had set, saying he understood his duty to them and their loved ones. Joshua has returned to training in recent weeks as part of his emotional and physical recovery, though he has not confirmed his plans in the ring.
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