In a heartbreaking turn of events, British heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua has been injured in a car accident in Nigeria that claimed the lives of two of his close friends and team members. The collision occurred on a major expressway in Ogun State, near Lagos, involving a Lexus SUV in which Joshua was a passenger that collided with a stationary truck.

The deceased, Sina Ghami and Latif "Latz" Ayodele, were not just Joshua’s friends but integral parts of his professional support team. Ghami served as Joshua's strength and conditioning coach for over a decade, while Ayodele was his personal trainer, contributing significantly to Joshua's impressive boxing career. The duo’s untimely deaths have sent shockwaves through the boxing community and beyond.

According to police reports, the Lexus was traveling from Lagos to Sagamu when it experienced a tyre burst, allegedly due to excessive speed, leading to a loss of control. Joshua and the driver were extricated from the wreckage and rushed to a hospital in Sagamu for medical attention. Thankfully, Joshua is currently in stable condition, receiving checks and treatment, as confirmed by officials.

Matchroom Boxing, Joshua's promotion company, released a statement expressing their condolences to the families affected by this tragedy, urging for privacy during this difficult time. Eddie Hearn, the promotion's chairman, paid tribute to Ghami and Ayodele, acknowledging their significant roles in Joshua's life and career. "Rest in eternal peace Sina and Latz. My thoughts and deepest prayers are with everyone," he stated.

The circumstances surrounding the crash were alarming, with Ogun State's Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Corps (TRACE) highlighting the vehicle's excessive speed as a contributing factor. Photos from the site reveal a devastating scene, with onlookers gathering around the wreckage of the car.

In a poignant moment, just hours before the accident, Joshua shared a lighthearted video on Instagram with Ayodele, showcasing the camaraderie that defined their close relationship. Tributes have started to flow in, with fellow boxer Jake Paul expressing his sorrow, stating, "Life is much more important than boxing. I am praying for the lost lives, AJ, and anyone impacted by today’s unfortunate accident."

The crash took place during a busy period on the Lagos-Ibadan expressway, notorious for being one of Nigeria's most dangerous roads. Local governments confirmed that a thorough investigation into the incident will be conducted.

Joshua, 36, who has roots in the nearby town of Sagamu, had returned to Nigeria after recently defeating Paul on December 19, excited to spend the New Year with family. This tragic accident has eclipsed those celebrations, leaving a family in mourning and a community in shock.

As plans for an indoor boxing venue honoring Joshua in Ogun state loom, the legacy of his late friends will undoubtedly continue to resonate throughout both the local and global boxing communities. Ghami and Ayodele were revered figures in Joshua’s life, and their absence will be deeply felt within his support network and beyond. The boxing world mourns the loss of two devoted souls who played such vital roles in shaping a champion.