The deaths of Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele highlight the often unseen relationships behind elite success. While Anthony Joshua is known globally, these men were part of the foundation that supported his career away from the spotlight.
Their passing serves as a reminder of the human stories behind public figures and the lasting impact of friendship, loyalty, and shared purpose.
The global boxing community was shaken on December 29, 2025, by tragic news from Nigeria. Kevin Latif “Latz” Ayodele and Sina Ghami, two close friends and key members of Anthony Joshua’s inner circle, lost their lives in a fatal car crash on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway in Ogun State. The accident also left Joshua injured but stable, turning what was meant to be a routine journey into a life-altering moment.
More Than a Team — A Brotherhood
For Anthony Joshua, Ayodele and Ghami were far more than professional associates. They were trusted companions who shared years of discipline, sacrifice, laughter, and pressure that come with competing at the highest level of boxing.
Latif “Latz” Ayodele, aged 36, was Joshua’s close friend and personal trainer. Known for his positivity and genuine kindness, Latz played a vital role in Joshua’s day-to-day preparation and mental focus. Those who knew him often described him as someone who lifted the energy of every room he entered — calm under pressure, loyal to his people, and deeply passionate about his work.
Sina Ghami, also 36, served as Joshua’s strength and conditioning coach. His expertise helped shape the physical foundation behind Joshua’s success in the ring. Beyond his professional skill, Ghami was admired for his discipline, humility, and unwavering support. He was someone Joshua relied on not just for physical conditioning, but for balance during the relentless demands of elite sport.
The Tragic Incident in Nigeria
The crash occurred in the late morning as Joshua and his team traveled along one of Nigeria’s busiest highways. Their vehicle reportedly collided with a stationary truck while attempting to maneuver through traffic. Five people were in the car at the time.
While Anthony Joshua survived with non-life-threatening injuries and received medical care, the impact proved fatal for Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami. News of their deaths spread quickly, prompting grief and disbelief across the boxing world.
An Outpouring of Grief and Respect
Tributes poured in from athletes, trainers, fans, and sports figures worldwide. Fellow boxers expressed solidarity with Joshua and offered condolences to the families of the deceased, highlighting how deeply respected both men were within the sport.
Friends recalled moments that showed the human side of their bond — from shared meals and travel to lighthearted games and laughter away from the spotlight. These memories painted a picture of relationships built not just on sport, but on genuine friendship and trust.
Their Legacy Beyond the Ring
Ayodele and Ghami may not have stood under the bright lights on fight night, but their influence was undeniable. Every training camp, every early morning session, and every hard-earned victory carried their imprint. They represented the unseen backbone of elite boxing — the people whose dedication makes greatness possible.
Their passing is a painful reminder of how fragile life can be, regardless of fame or strength. For Anthony Joshua, the loss is personal and profound. For the wider sporting community, it is a moment of reflection on the importance of those who stand beside champions, shaping journeys that fans often only see at the finish line.
Gone, But Never Forgotten
As the world remembers Latif “Latz” Ayodele and Sina Ghami, their legacy lives on through the lives they touched and the careers they helped build. They will be remembered not only for their professional contributions, but for their loyalty, warmth, and brotherhood.
In a sport defined by resilience, their story stands as a reminder that behind every champion is a circle of people whose impact lasts far beyond the ring.
