British-Nigerian boxing icon Anthony Joshua has spoken publicly for the first time since the devastating road accident that claimed the lives of two of his closest friends, Latif Ayodele and Gami Sina, in December 2025.
In an emotional video message shared on his official Instagram page, the former heavyweight champion described the late duo as more than friends, calling them his “brothers” and reflecting on the pain of their sudden loss.
“So this is the best way I could reach out to all of you, far and wide, worldwide, who were showing so much love, care, support through that tragic, traumatic time where we lost Latz and Sina in Nigeria,” Joshua said.
The fatal crash occurred on December 29, 2025, along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway and also left Joshua injured.
Recalling their final moments together, the boxer revealed how unexpected the tragedy was after plans to close out the year as a team.
“The last time I spoke to you guys was in Miami. We had so many plans to wrap up 2025, and we were on a mission. We went back home, went to see our families, and everything just got flipped upside on its head,” he said.
Joshua admitted that the deaths had left an indelible mark on him and the families involved.
“Not only did their parents, their uncles, their cousins, their friends, and myself lose like two great men, we lost people that we dearly care about. They were major players in all of our lives,” he said.
He added, “They’re my brothers, they’re my friends first and foremost, and then we became business partners. We became everything.”
The boxing star also pledged to continue supporting the families of the deceased, stressing that his commitment goes beyond legacy.
“I understand my duty. 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 in the physical,” he said.
“It ain’t about legacy. It’s just doing what’s right, and I know what I’m going to do — what’s right for them and what’s right for their family,” he said.
In the caption accompanying the video, Joshua wrote: “A short message from the heart. My brother’s keeper for life.”
He also expressed gratitude to those who helped in the aftermath of the crash.
“I want to take a moment to show a massive amount of appreciation to the first responders, to everyone who rushed to help Latz and Sina, to those who helped me get to the hospital, and to all the locals who prayed for us at the scene,” he wrote.
Joshua further thanked the medical team at Lagoon Hospital, Ikoyi, naming Dr Ogunyankin, Dr Tosin Majekodunmi and Dr Ninalowo for their care, while acknowledging the British Deputy High Commissioner and Deputy Head of Mission, Simon Field, as well as business leaders Femi Otedola and Aliko Dangote for logistical support.
“Without you guys, the transition back to the UK wouldn’t have been as smooth,” he said.
He also appreciated Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, President Bola Tinubu, and senior security officials.
“Thank you so much for your personal involvement, daily follow-ups and all your efforts,” Joshua said.
The accident claimed the lives of Latif Ayodele (36) and Gami Sina (36), while Joshua was pulled from the wreckage and rushed to Duchess International Hospital for treatment.
Meanwhile, the driver involved in the crash, Adeniyi Kayode (46), has appeared before a magistrate’s court in Sagamu, Ogun State, with the case adjourned until February 25 pending legal advice from the Attorney-General’s Office.
Joshua’s uncle has also reportedly said the boxer would not want the driver jailed over the incident.
