British-Nigerian boxer Anthony Joshua has spoken publicly following a road accident in Nigeria late last year that claimed the lives of two of his close friends.
In a video posted on his Instagram on Thursday, the former heavyweight champion paid tribute to Latif Ayodele, popularly known as Latz, and Gami Sina, who both died in the crash.
“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 accident occurred on December 29, 2025, along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway. Joshua was also injured in the crash and later received medical treatment.
He said the loss was particularly painful because 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, went to see our families, and everything just got flipped upside on its head,” he said.
Joshua described Latz and Sina as central figures in his life and in the lives of those around them.
“Not only did their parents, their uncles, their cousins, their friends, and myself lose like two great men, we lost people that we dearly care about. They were major players in all of our lives,” he said.
He added, “They’re my brothers, they’re my friends first and foremost, and then we became business partners. We became everything.”
The boxer said he feels a strong responsibility to continue supporting the families they left behind.
“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 just doing what’s right, and I know what I’m going to do, what’s right for them and what’s right for their family.”
Reflecting further on loss and mortality, Joshua said, “one day my time will come and I’m not scared either at all. It’s actually comforting knowing that I’ve got two brothers on the other side.
“I’ve lost people before, but I don’t think I’ve lost people like that, my left and my right.”
In the caption accompanying the video, Joshua wrote, “A short message from the heart. My brother’s keeper for life.”
He also thanked those who assisted at the scene of the crash and during his recovery.
“I want to take a moment to show a massive amount of appreciation to the first responders, to everyone who rushed to help Latz and Sina, to those who helped me get to the hospital, and to all the locals who prayed for us at the scene,” he wrote.
Joshua acknowledged the medical team at Lagoon Hospital, naming Dr Ogunyankin, Dr Tosin Majekodunmi and Dr Ninalowo.
He also thanked British Deputy High Commissioner Simon Field, as well as business figures Femi Otedola and Aliko Dangote, for their support.
“Without you guys, the transition back to the UK wouldn’t have been as smooth,” he said.
The boxer further expressed gratitude to Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Dapo Abiodun, Bola Tinubu, and senior security officials.
“Thank you so much for your personal involvement, daily follow-ups and all your efforts,” Joshua said.
We earlier reported that the victims, Latif Ayodele and Gami Sina, were both 36. Joshua was pulled from the wreckage and taken to Duchess International Hospital for treatment.
The driver involved in the crash, Adeniyi Kayode, 46, has since appeared before a magistrate’s court in Sagamu, Ogun State.
The case was adjourned until February 25 to allow the prosecution seek legal advice from the state Attorney-General’s office