Anthony Joshua broke weeks of public silence to speak on camera for the first time since a car crash in Nigeria that claimed the lives of his close friends. In a YouTube video posted Thursday evening, the British heavyweight fighter held back tears as he reflected on the loss of former personal trainer Latif Ayodele and strength and conditioning coach Sina Ghami.
Joshua described Ayodele and Ghami as his “brothers,” who were killed along with their friend at the scene of a December 29 SUV collision that had also left him with minor injuries. The accident occurred just weeks after Joshua defeated YouTuber Jake Paul in Miami, setting up an anticipated showdown against Tyson Fury this year.
Joshua emphasized he would continue his boxing mission but acknowledged the weight of what Ayodele and Ghami “wanted to do for their families.” He also stated that his goal now is to assist them in achieving those goals. The accident brought attention to Joshua’s plans, as he mentioned the “mission must go on” rather than focusing on legacy.
Fury had announced his anticipated return to boxing but was set to face Arslanbek Makhmudov on April 11. The status of an all-British battle between Joshua and Fury remains uncertain, with speculation that the veteran boxer might now retire in light of this tragedy. Promoter Eddie Hearn indicated Joshua would have all the time needed to cope with his loss.
Earlier this month, Joshua shared footage of himself re-entering the gym for “mental strength therapy,” hitting pads with a trainer. In Thursday’s video, he said: “One day my time will come and I am not scared at all. It is actually comforting knowing that I’ve got two brothers on the other side.”