Tragedy Strikes: Joshua’s Team Mourns Loss in Car Crash

Tragedy Strikes: Joshua’s Team Mourns Loss in Car Crash

Boxing has been rocked by devastating news as two close members of Anthony Joshua’s team, Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele, tragically lost their lives in a car accident involving the former world heavyweight champion.

BBC boxing journalist Steve Bunce shared his heartfelt reaction to the incident, describing the mood as “sombre and sobering” in what was supposed to be a celebratory end to the year.

A Heartbreaking Loss for AJ

Both Ghami, Joshua’s long-time strength and conditioning coach, and Ayodele, a childhood friend and constant companion, were deeply embedded in the British boxer’s inner circle. Bunce, who had just seen the trio in Miami 10 days ago following AJ’s win over Jake Paul, was visibly shaken by the news.

“These were not casual members of his team… These were really close friends and key parts of his backroom team,” said Bunce.

Their loss has sent shockwaves through the boxing community, where their presence beside AJ was as constant as the boxer himself.

“Boxing Doesn’t Count Right Now”

Anthony Joshua beat Jake Paul by knockout in the sixth round on 19 December

In the aftermath of the accident, support poured in from across the boxing world, including a touching message from Jake Paul, who wrote:

“At times like this, boxing does not count.”

Bunce echoed this sentiment, praising the boxing industry’s united response to the tragedy. He emphasized that all discussions about future fights, including the long-anticipated bout with Tyson Fury, have been put on hold indefinitely.

“All talk of fights has been pushed to the side. This is bigger than boxing,” said Bunce.

Trauma and Recovery: Joshua’s Mental State

Perhaps most distressing of all, Joshua was in the car during the crash and reportedly inches away from the fatal impact that claimed the lives of his friends. Bunce struggled to express the emotional weight AJ must be carrying.

“It’s too much for my head to understand… I have no idea what AJ’s state of mind will be.”

With no immediate update from the hospital on Joshua’s condition, concern grows for the mental and emotional health of a man who, despite his physical power, is now navigating immense grief.

Global Support for AJ

Joshua’s fans — not just in Nigeria and the UK, but around the world — have shown an outpouring of love and solidarity. Bunce noted the importance of this support in AJ’s recovery process.

“He needs an awful lot of love, care and attention right now,” Bunce said. “Plenty around the world love him — and I know he will appreciate that.”

Future Uncertain, But Not Important Right Now

Joshua had been scheduled to fight again in March, with the Fury showdown closer than ever to announcement, according to promoter Eddie Hearn. But all professional plans are now suspended, as friends, fans, and the boxing world focus on healing — and mourning two lives lost too soon.

Final Thoughts

The accident reminds us that even champions are not immune to tragedy. At a time meant for celebration and ambition, Anthony Joshua now faces unimaginable loss, and the sport must rally around him.

As Bunce concluded:

“It’s a sombre and sobering end to the year, that’s for sure.”