British-Nigerian boxing star and former heavyweight champion, 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 an emotional video shared on his official Instagram page on Thursday, Joshua mourned Latif Ayodele, popularly known as Latz, and Gami Sina, describing the duo as his “brothers” and expressing deep gratitude for the support he received in the aftermath of the tragedy.
“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 and support through that tragic, traumatic time where we lost Latz and Sina in Nigeria,” Joshua said.
The accident occurred on December 29, 2025, along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway and left Joshua injured while claiming the lives of both men.
Joshua revealed that the incident happened shortly after the group had made plans to round off 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 on its head,” he said.
Reflecting on the loss, the boxer said the deaths had left a deep void in the lives of their families and friends.
“Not only did their parents, uncles, cousins and friends lose two great men, I lost people that I dearly care about. They were major players in all of our lives,” he said.
Joshua explained that beyond friendship, the trio had built a strong bond as business partners and confidants.
“They’re my brothers, they’re my friends first and foremost, and then we became business partners. We became everything,” he said.
He pledged to continue supporting the families of the deceased, saying he understood the responsibilities his friends carried while alive.
“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 physically,” Joshua said.
“It’s not about legacy. It’s about doing what’s right — what’s right for them and what’s right for 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 came to their aid following the crash.
“I want to take a moment to show a massive amount of appreciation to the first responders, everyone who rushed to help Latz and Sina, those who helped me get to the hospital, and all the locals who prayed for us at the scene,” he said.
Joshua thanked the medical team at Lagoon Hospital, Ikoyi — including Dr Ogunyankin, Dr Tosin Majekodunmi and Dr Ninalowo — for their care, as well as the British Deputy High Commissioner and Deputy Head of Mission, Simon Field.
He also acknowledged Nigerian business leaders Femi Otedola and Aliko Dangote for logistical support, saying their intervention made his return to the United Kingdom seamless.
The boxer further appreciated Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, President Bola Tinubu and senior security officials for their personal involvement and follow-ups.
“Thank you so much for your daily follow-ups and all your efforts,” Joshua said.
Punch Online had earlier reported that the victims, Latif Ayodele (Latz), 36, and Gami Sina, 36, died in the crash, while Joshua was rescued from the wreckage and taken to Duchess International Hospital for treatment.
Meanwhile, the driver involved in the accident, Adeniyi Kayode, 46, has appeared before a magistrate’s court in Sagamu, Ogun State.
The magistrate, Olajumoke Somefu, adjourned the case until February 25 to allow the prosecution transmit the case file to the Ogun State Attorney-General’s Office for legal advice.
Joshua’s uncle was also quoted as saying the boxer would not want the driver jailed over the incident.
