Anthony Joshua Breaks Silence After Fatal Lagos–Ibadan Expressway Crash
British-Nigerian boxing star Anthony Joshua has spoken publicly for the first time following the fatal road accident that claimed the lives of two of his close friends in December 2025.
In a heartfelt video shared on his official Instagram page on Thursday, the former heavyweight champion mourned Latif Ayodele, popularly known as Latz, and Gami Sina, describing them as his “brothers” and pillars in his life.
“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 crash occurred on December 29, 2025, along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, leaving Joshua injured and claiming the lives of both men, who were aged 36.
Joshua said the tragedy unfolded shortly after the group had made plans to spend the end of the year together.
“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.
Reflecting on the loss, the boxer said the deaths had devastated not only him but also the families and wider circle who depended on the men.
“Not only did their parents, their uncles, their cousins, their friends, and myself lose two great men, we lost people that we dearly care about. They were major players in all of our lives,” Joshua said.
He revealed that beyond friendship, they were also business partners, adding that he remains committed to supporting their families.
“They’re my brothers, my friends first and foremost. Then we became business partners. We became everything,” he said.
Joshua stressed that his focus is on responsibility, not public 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 about doing what’s right.”
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 first responders and bystanders who rushed to assist at the crash scene, as well as medical staff at Lagoon Hospital, Ikoyi, including Dr Ogunyankin, Dr Tosin Majekodunmi, and Dr Ninalowo.
Joshua acknowledged the support of the British Deputy High Commissioner, Simon Field, alongside Nigerian business leaders Femi Otedola and Aliko Dangote, saying their intervention eased his return to the UK.
He further thanked President Bola Tinubu, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, and senior security officials for their personal involvement and follow-ups.
Meanwhile, the driver involved in the crash, Adeniyi Kayode (46), has appeared before a magistrate’s court in Sagamu, Ogun State. Magistrate Olajumoke Somefu adjourned the case to February 25 to allow the prosecution transmit the case file to the Ogun State Attorney-General’s Office for legal advice.
Joshua’s uncle has reportedly said the boxer would not want the driver imprisoned over the incident.