Tyson Fury has paid a heartfelt tribute to Anthony Joshua’s close friends, Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami, who were killed in a car accident in Nigeria on Monday.
Joshua sustained minor injuries after the Lexus SUV he was travelling in collided into a stationary truck along the Lagos Ibadan Expressway.
The 36-year-old remained in hospital overnight for further assessment, but is in a stable condition.
According to the Federal Road Safety Corps, the car was “beyond the legally prescribed speed limit” while overtaking.
Joshua’s promotional team, Matchroom Boxing confirmed late on Monday that Ayodele and Ghami lost their lives in the crash.
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“Anthony Joshua was involved in a road traffic accident in Lagos, Nigeria earlier today,” the statement read.
“With profound sadness it has been confirmed that two close friends and team members, Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele have tragically passed away.
“Matchroom Boxing and 258 BXG [Joshua’s management] can confirm that Anthony sustained injuries in the accident and was taken to hospital for checks and treatment.
“He is in a stable condition and will remain there for observation.
“Our deepest condolences and prayers are with the families and friends of all those affected and we ask that their privacy is respected at this incredibly difficult time.
“No further comment will be made at this time.”
The incident came just 10 days after ‘AJ’ knocked out Jake Paul in Miami in his first bout in 15 months.
The 36-year-old was expected to return to the ring in February before finally facing long-time rival Fury in the summer.
Fury, who is set to make his comeback later this year after retiring in January, paid tribute to Ayodele and Ghami in a post on social media on Tuesday.
“This is so sad,” the 37-year-old wrote on Instagram.
“May god give them a bed in heaven.
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“There is no tomorrow.
“Live, love and give.”
