Heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua has been discharged from hospital after a car accident on the Lagos Ibadan Expressway that claimed the lives of two of his close friends.
The British former world champion was cleared to continue his recovery at home, according to a joint statement issued by the Lagos and Ogun state governments. The statement described him as “heavy-hearted” over the loss of his friends.
Joshua, 36, was a passenger in a Lexus SUV that reportedly suffered a burst tyre before crashing into a stationary truck on Monday.
The two victims, Sina Ghami and Latif “Latz” Ayodele, both aged 36, were members of Joshua’s team and close friends.
“The governments of Lagos and Ogun states once again commiserate with the families of the two young men, Lateef Ayodele and Cina Gami, who tragically and unfortunately lost their lives in the road accident involving Anthony Joshua. We pray The Almighty grant the repose of their souls whilst granting their families and loved ones the fortitude to bear this very sad and painful loss,” the statement said.
It confirmed that Joshua was discharged late on Tuesday afternoon and was “deemed clinically fit to recuperate from home,” while still grieving the deaths.
The statement added that Joshua and his mother visited a funeral home in Lagos the same day to pay their respects to the deceased, whose bodies were being prepared for repatriation later that evening.
It also praised the medical team that treated the boxer and others injured in the crash.
“The team of doctors and medical personnel at Lagoon Hospital, Ikoyi, who attended to Anthony and those that sustained injuries, displayed quality care and professionalism that is truly commendable,” it said.
Governors Dapo Abiodun and Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Ogun and Lagos thanked members of the public and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for their support.
Earlier, Eddie Hearn, Joshua’s long-time promoter, paid tribute to the two men.
“Rest in peace Latz and Sina,” Hearn wrote on Instagram.
“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.”
Ghami was Joshua’s full-time sport and exercise rehabilitation coach and had worked with him for over a decade, while Ayodele served as his personal trainer and fitness coach.
