Society
Final Goodbye: Joshua Mourns As Best Friends Are Laid To Rest
the final farewell to two young men whose lives were tragically cut short
British-Nigerian boxing champion Anthony Joshua was among the mourners at a private burial in London today, as his two close friends, Sina Ghami and Latif “Latz” Ayodele, were laid to rest at the Regents Park Mosque.
The ceremony, held away from the public eye, marked the final farewell to two young men whose lives were tragically cut short in a road accident in Lagos on December 29, 2025.
The accident, which involved Joshua himself, claimed the lives of Ghami and Ayodele, who were not only his friends but also served as part of his personal training and support circle.
The incident sent shockwaves across Nigeria and beyond, drawing condolences from fans, fellow athletes, and government officials.
Anthony Joshua, who had been hospitalized at Lagoon Hospital, Ikoyi following the crash, was discharged on December 31, 2025, and had earlier visited Lagos to pay his respects at a funeral home as the remains of his friends were prepared for repatriation.
Speaking through a joint statement, the Lagos and Ogun state governments extended condolences to the families, praying for the repose of the souls of Ghami and Ayodele and strength for their loved ones.
The burial in London was conducted in a quiet, private ceremony in line with the families’ wishes.
Observers noted that Joshua remained visibly emotional, reflecting on the loss of two people who had been integral to his life both personally and professionally.
Governors Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos and Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State had earlier expressed appreciation to the public for the outpouring of support following the tragedy and thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his fatherly guidance.
The doctors and medical personnel at Lagoon Hospital, Ikoyi, were also commended for the care provided to Joshua and others injured in the crash.
As the two friends are laid to rest, Anthony Joshua faces a period of mourning while continuing his recovery, holding on to memories of Ghami and Ayodele, and the bond they shared that extended far beyond the boxing ring.
