A mood of deep grief enveloped London on Sunday as relatives, friends, and members of the boxing community gathered to pay their final respects to two close associates of former two-time world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua, whose sudden deaths have sent shockwaves through the sport.
The Janaza, or funeral prayer, for the late associates took place at the London Central Mosque, drawing a large crowd of mourners, including family members, close friends, and figures from the boxing world. The victims, Sina Ghami and Abdul Latif Kevin Ayodele, lost their lives in a fatal road crash in Nigeria last Monday. Joshua, who was also involved in the incident, survived with minor injuries, leaving the deaths of his close confidants particularly devastating.
The accident occurred during Joshua’s visit to Nigeria following his victory over Jake Paul in Miami on December 19. He had traveled as a passenger in a Lexus SUV that collided with a stationary truck. Joshua was treated at a hospital in Nigeria and discharged on New Year’s Eve. Ghami and Ayodele, however, did not survive the crash, leaving a profound void in Joshua’s personal and professional circle.
Both men were widely regarded as integral to Joshua’s success, contributing significantly to his training, preparation, and career development. Their passing has cast a shadow over what was meant to be a celebratory period for the boxing star, highlighting both the personal and professional loss Joshua has endured.
Ahead of the funeral rites in London, the remains of Ghami and Ayodele were repatriated to the United Kingdom. Ghami’s burial was scheduled at Hendon Cemetery and Crematorium, while a wake in honor of both men was planned at Cavendish Banqueting Hall in North West London. The events drew a large number of mourners, reflecting the respect and admiration both men commanded within the community.
The crash has also prompted legal proceedings in Nigeria. The driver involved, Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, was arraigned by the Ogun State Police Command on charges of causing death by dangerous driving and operating a vehicle without a valid license. The case has been adjourned until January 20, with the defendant granted bail in the sum of ₦5 million and remanded in custody pending fulfillment of bail conditions.
The tragic incident has sparked conversations about road safety and the responsibilities of drivers, particularly in high risk areas, as well as the broader risks associated with travel during the holiday season. Fans, colleagues, and the global boxing community have expressed condolences, sharing tributes and highlighting the significant contributions of Ghami and Ayodele to Joshua’s life and career.
For Anthony Joshua, the loss of his close associates is not only a personal blow but a reminder of the fragility of life, even for those who live in the limelight. Their deaths have left an indelible mark on the sport, and their memory is being honored by family, friends, and the boxing community in both the United Kingdom and Nigeria.
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