British-Nigerian boxing star Anthony Joshua has broken his silence following the fatal road accident that claimed the lives of two of his close friends, Latif Ayodele and Gami Sina, in December 2025.
In an emotional video shared on his official Instagram page on Thursday, the former heavyweight champion described the late Ayodele, popularly known as Latz, and Sina as his “brothers,” while thanking supporters for the outpouring of love during what he called a traumatic period.
“This is the best way I could reach out to all of you, far and wide, worldwide, who showed so much love, care and support during that tragic time when we lost Latz and Sina in Nigeria,” Joshua said.
The accident occurred on December 29, 2025, along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway. Joshua, who was also involved in the crash, sustained injuries and was taken to hospital.
Recalling events leading up to the tragedy, Joshua said the incident happened shortly after the group had made plans 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, and we were on a mission. We went back home to see our families, and everything just got flipped upside down,” he said.
Joshua noted that the loss had deeply affected not only him but also the families and loved ones of the deceased.
“Their parents, uncles, cousins, friends and myself lost two great men—people we dearly cared about. They were major players in all of our lives,” he said.
He added that beyond friendship, they shared strong personal and professional bonds. “They were my brothers and my friends first, and then we became business partners. We became everything,” he said.
The boxer pledged continued support for the families left behind, stressing that he felt a responsibility to honour his friends’ aspirations.
“I understand my duty. I understand what they wanted to do for their families, so my goal is to continue helping them achieve those goals, even though they are no longer here physically,” Joshua said.
“It’s not about legacy. It’s about doing what’s right—what’s right for them and their families.”
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 assisted in the aftermath of the crash, including first responders and bystanders at the scene.
“I want to show massive appreciation to the first responders, those who helped Latz and Sina, those who got me to the hospital, and everyone who prayed for us at the scene,” he wrote.
Joshua thanked the medical team at Lagoon Hospital, Ikoyi, mentioning Dr Ogunyankin, Dr Tosin Majekodunmi and Dr Ninalowo for their care. He also acknowledged 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 that aided his return to the UK.
The boxer further appreciated Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, President Bola Tinubu, and senior security officials for their intervention and follow-up.
Punch Online had earlier reported that the accident claimed the lives of Latif Ayodele and Gami Sina, both aged 36. Joshua was rescued from the wreckage and treated at Duchess International Hospital.
Meanwhile, the driver involved in the accident, Adeniyi Kayode, 46, has appeared before a magistrate’s court in Sagamu, Ogun State. The case was adjourned until February 25 to allow the prosecution forward 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 jailed over the incident.
