One of the men has been named as Kevin Ayodele (right)(Image: X)

Two killed in Anthony Joshua car crash named as tributes pour in

by · Wales Online

The two individuals who tragically lost their lives in Monday's car accident involving Anthony Joshua have been identified as Kevin Ayodele and Sina Ghami.

The 36-year-old two-time heavyweight champion was also hospitalised following the incident, though his injuries were described as minor. Earlier today, it was revealed that Joshua had been involved in a road traffic collision with four other people on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.

Joshua's promoter Eddie Hearn shared in a statement: "Anthony Joshua was involved in a road traffic accident in Lagos, Nigeria, earlier today. With profound sadness it has been confirmed that two close friends and team members Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele have tragically passed away.

"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.

LIVE UPDATES: Anthony Joshua in car accident as two people lose their lives

"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. No further comment will be made at this time."

According to preliminary investigations by Nigeria's Federal Road Safety Corps, the crash occurred when a black Lexus SUV carrying Joshua as a passenger struck a stationary red commercial Sinotruck. The FRSC reported that the SUV, "which was suspected to be travelling beyond the legally prescribed speed limit," lost control during an overtaking manoeuvre and ploughed into the parked lorry at the roadside.

Consequently, Ayodele - known by the nickname Latz - and Ghami died in the crash, while Joshua required hospital treatment. The remaining two occupants of the vehicle escaped uninjured, reports the Mirror.

Following news of the tragedy, numerous people have used social media platforms to pay their respects. Chris Eubank Jr wrote: "Thank god our heavyweight champ survived that horrible car crash. And pray for the two fallen soldiers Latz and Sina and their families. I knew both...they were genuinely good men. Rest in Peace boys."

OnestoplistDubai shared: "May Allah forgive you for your shortcomings and grant you the highest level of paradise. Ameen. Nothing but good memories when we were together.

After Joshua was pulled from the wreckage, he was placed in a police vehicle and taken to hospital(Image: X)
Anthony Joshua was seen wincing in agony after emerging from the wreckage of a crash in Nigeria which left two people dead(Image: X)

"My condolences go out to your family and loved ones Sina @258mgt @anthonyjoshua. A gentle reminder to all the brothers and sisters. From him we came and to him we will return. Now at peace, Sina."

Tam Khan also paid tribute, writing on social media: "Prayers with both their families during this devastating time," alongside photos of the two men. Jake Paul, Joshua's recent opponent, took to social media to say: "Life is much more important than boxing. I am praying for the lost lives, AJ and anyone impacted by today's unfortunate accident."

Paul later added: "RIP Sina Ghami and Kevin 'Latif / Latz' Ayodele. My thoughts and prayers are with their families and friends and AJ."

Badou Jack also expressed his shock on Instagram, writing: "Still in shock! Inna lillahi wa inna lilayhi rajioon. May Allah forgive you for your shortcomings and grant you the highest level of paradise @healthy_mindset."

Two men died in a crash in Nigeria on Monday(Image: X / FRSC)

Mutah Beale wrote: "From Allah we belong to Allah we return, sad and shocking news about the death of our dear brother Abdul-Latif resulting from a car crash, May Allah have mercy on him and grant him Jannah, and May Allah make this difficult time easy for his family. We also wish a speedy recovery for the champ."

Misfits Boxing's Slim Albaher paid tribute too, saying: "Sending prayers for Anthony Joshua and for the two brothers who tragically passed away in the car accident. I can't believe Latz was one of the guys involved...he was such a good soul and a supportive brother. Allah Yerhamu, may Allah grant Latz and Sina Jannah."

Sina Ghami died in the crash(Image: X / Sina Evolve)

Ayodele, who served as Joshua's personal trainer, was also known to be one of the boxer's closest friends. Ghami, on the other hand, served as AJ's strength and conditioning coach.

He was seen assisting Joshua in his preparations for his Miami face-off with Paul on Saturday, 19 December. As a co-founder of Evolve Gym, Ghami was a part of Team Joshua for over ten years, having also collaborated with Le'Veon Bell of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Draymond Green of the Golden State Warriors.