Eddie Hearn Leads Tributes for Anthony Joshua’s Friends Killed in Crash
Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn led a global wave of tributes on Wednesday, honouring the "loyalty and energy" of Sina Ghami and Latif "Latz" Ayodele, two integral members of Anthony Joshua’s inner circle who were killed in a high-speed vehicle collision on Monday.
Hearn, the Chairman of Matchroom Boxing, described the loss as "shattering" for the sport and the champion personally. In a statement shared with his millions of followers, Hearn noted that the "great qualities" of the two men, who had been by Joshua’s side since the start of his professional career, would be "deeply missed".
“Rest in peace Latz and Sina,” Hearn posted. “Your energy and loyalty among so many other great qualities will be deeply missed. Praying for strength and guidance for all their family, friends and of course AJ during this very difficult time.”
Sina Ghami served as Joshua’s full-time sports and exercise rehabilitation coach for over a decade, playing a pivotal role in the boxer’s physical recovery through his various world title reigns. Latif Ayodele, a former footballer turned personal trainer, was widely known as a constant companion and mentor within the camp. Just hours before the tragedy, Joshua had shared social media footage of the pair playing table tennis, appearing in high spirits following his recent victory over Jake Paul in Miami.
The tragedy has prompted condolences from the highest levels of government and sport. Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu confirmed he spoke personally with Joshua to offer his sympathies. "I wished him a full and speedy recovery and prayed with him," the President stated, noting that the Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, was monitoring the boxer's care.
Rivals and peers across the heavyweight division also paused to honour the fallen team members. Two-time undisputed champion Oleksandr Usyk described Ghami and Ayodele as "two incredible people" who were the heartbeat of Joshua's operation. Tyson Fury and Jake Paul similarly expressed their shock, with Fury offering prayers for the families "in these horrific circumstances".
The Ogun State Police Command has launched a "discreet investigation" into the crash, which authorities initially attributed to excessive speed and a wrongful overtaking manoeuvre. For now, the boxing world remains focused on the emotional recovery of a champion who has lost his two closest confidants.
"They were more than staff; they were his brothers," said boxing commentator Andy Scott. "AJ is going to need a hell of a lot of time and space to process this loss."
Our thoughts remain with the families of Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele, Anthony Joshua, and all affected by this devastating loss.
