BY Grace Zigah
British boxing star Anthony Joshua has spoken publicly for the first time following a devastating car crash in Nigeria that claimed the lives of two of his closest friends and key members of his team, Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami.
The accident, which occurred on December 29 near Lagos, has left the former heavyweight champion grieving deeply, describing the past month as one of the most tragic periods of his life.
In an emotional video statement shared on his social media platforms and YouTube channel titled My Brother’s Keeper For Life, the 36-year-old boxer fought back tears as he addressed fans and the wider public.
Anthony Joshua revealed that he was travelling in the back seat of an SUV when the vehicle collided with a stationary truck on a major road outside Lagos.
Although he sustained only minor injuries and was treated in hospital before returning to the United Kingdom to recover, both Ayodele and Ghami died instantly at the scene.
Authorities in Nigeria later charged the driver of the vehicle with dangerous and reckless driving, as investigations into the crash continued.
Anthony Joshua, still visibly shaken, spoke quietly and directly into the camera, recounting the shock of the incident and the overwhelming pain of losing two men he described as far more than colleagues.
He referred to Latif and Sina as “my left and my right,” explaining that they were brothers in every sense — housemates, business partners, and major figures in both his professional and personal life.
Anthony Joshua stressed that their deaths should not be reduced to discussions about legacy or headlines, but rather should be met with responsibility and care for the families they left behind.
The boxing icon pledged to stand by the families of the deceased, promising to help them achieve their goals and ensure that their loved ones are supported moving forward.
“I’m going to do what’s right by them,” Joshua said, emphasizing that a wider circle of friends and colleagues would also rally around the bereaved families.
In the caption accompanying the tribute, Joshua expressed heartfelt gratitude to those who assisted in the aftermath of the crash.
He singled out first responders, medical staff at Lagoon Hospital in Ikoyi, and individuals who provided logistical support during his recovery process.
He also publicly acknowledged prominent Nigerian businessmen Femi Otedola and Aliko Dangote, as well as senior officials including the British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, along with federal and state authorities who showed concern and offered assistance.
Joshua also spoke about how he is coping emotionally and spiritually, saying he has found comfort in prayer and in the belief that Ayodele and Ghami will remain with him in spirit.
He expressed appreciation for the thousands of condolences, prayers, and supportive messages he has received from around the world.
Promoters and members of his team have indicated that Joshua will take time to heal before making any decisions regarding his boxing future.
Reaction to his message has been swift, with supporters and public figures praising his dignity, strength, and commitment to honouring the memory of his fallen friends through support for their families.
