A deep mood of grief enveloped London on Sunday as family, friends, and members of the boxing community gathered to mourn two close associates of former two-time world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua. The late Sina Ghami and Abdul Latif Kevin Ayodele died last week in a fatal road crash in Nigeria, an incident that has sent shockwaves through the sport and raised renewed concerns about road safety.
The Janaza, or funeral prayer, for the two men was held at the London Central Mosque, drawing a large crowd of mourners who came to pay their last respects. Ghami’s burial was later scheduled at Hendon Cemetery and Crematorium, while a wake honouring both men was planned at Cavendish Banqueting Hall in North West London.
Anthony Joshua, who survived the crash with minor injuries, was reportedly deeply affected by the tragedy. The boxer had been travelling in a Lexus SUV that collided with a stationary truck during a visit to Nigeria last month. He was treated in a local hospital and discharged on New Year’s Eve, just days before returning to the United Kingdom.
Joshua, born in Watford to Nigerian parents and raised across North London and Hertfordshire, had travelled to Nigeria following his victory over Jake Paul in Miami on December 19, 2025. The visit, intended as a holiday and celebration, turned tragic with the sudden deaths of Ghami and Ayodele.
Sina Ghami and Abdul Latif Kevin Ayodele were considered vital members of Joshua’s inner circle. Both men contributed significantly to his training, preparation, and professional development. Their loss has left a void in Joshua’s personal and professional life, as the boxing world mourns the passing of two key figures behind one of its brightest stars.
The driver of the SUV, Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, was arrested by the Ogun State Police Command and arraigned on charges of causing death by dangerous driving and operating a vehicle without a valid licence. The court adjourned the matter until January 20 and granted the driver bail in the sum of ₦5 million, with remand in custody pending fulfilment of the bail conditions.
At the London Central Mosque, family members, friends, and boxing enthusiasts gathered to offer prayers and remember the contributions of Ghami and Ayodele. Many attendees shared personal stories of the men’s dedication, professionalism, and commitment to Joshua’s career.
“The loss of Sina and Abdul Latif is deeply felt,” said a family friend who attended the Janaza. “They were not only professional associates but also trusted friends who played a major role in Anthony’s rise as a world champion.”
The burial at Hendon Cemetery and Crematorium and the subsequent wake at Cavendish Banqueting Hall allowed attendees to celebrate the lives of the deceased, highlighting their achievements and the impact they had on Joshua’s life.
The fatal crash has sparked wider conversations about road safety in Nigeria, a country where road accidents remain a major public concern. Authorities and experts have called for stricter enforcement of traffic regulations, driver education, and improvements in road infrastructure to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
According to the Lagos State Transport Authority, road accidents account for thousands of deaths annually, with negligence, over-speeding, and poorly maintained vehicles among the leading causes. Joshua’s accident underscores the dangers posed even to high-profile visitors and residents, highlighting the urgent need for policy reform and public awareness campaigns.
Anthony Joshua, 36, has enjoyed a storied boxing career, rising from a young athlete in North London to a two-time world heavyweight champion. Known for his discipline, determination, and public charisma, Joshua has also maintained close ties with his Nigerian heritage, often visiting the country to connect with family and support local initiatives.
The deaths of Ghami and Ayodele come at a sensitive time in Joshua’s career. Having recently secured victory against Jake Paul, the boxer had hoped to spend the festive season celebrating with his team and family. Instead, the tragic accident has cast a shadow over what should have been a joyful period, forcing him to contend with profound personal loss.
Friends and members of the boxing community have expressed solidarity with Joshua, sharing messages of support on social media and in public statements. Many have praised the deceased for their professionalism and unwavering support of the boxer.
Following the accident in Nigeria, the remains of Ghami and Ayodele were repatriated to the United Kingdom in preparation for the funeral rites. The process involved close coordination between Nigerian and British authorities, ensuring that the deceased received full honours and that family members could attend.
The Janaza at London Central Mosque was conducted in accordance with Islamic tradition, reflecting the cultural and religious backgrounds of the deceased. It was attended by a wide range of mourners, including members of the boxing fraternity, community leaders, and family members who travelled from different parts of the UK to pay their respects.
The driver involved in the crash remains in custody pending the fulfilment of bail conditions, with the next court hearing scheduled for January 20. Authorities have indicated that the investigation will continue, focusing on the circumstances leading to the collision and ensuring accountability for the tragic loss of life.
The deaths of Ghami and Ayodele have generated widespread attention in Nigeria, the UK, and the global boxing community. Social media platforms have seen an outpouring of grief, with fans and colleagues expressing condolences to Joshua and his team.