Former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua has spoken publicly for the first time about the heartbreaking loss of his close friends, Sina Ghami and Kevin “Lateef” Ayodele, describing the experience as one of the toughest moments of his life.
Ghami and Ayodele died in a tragic car accident on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway in Nigeria in December last year. Both men had been key members of Joshua’s team throughout his rise to global boxing stardom, prompting the British boxer to step away from the ring to grieve their passing.
Now preparing for his return to action against Kristian Prenga in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, this weekend, Joshua said the memories of his late friends continue to inspire him.
Speaking to talkSPORT, Joshua said they remain an inseparable part of his life and motivation.
“One million, million per cent,” he said when asked if their memory would drive him in the ring.
“The guys were always part of my life. I always live for them anyway. They are part of my DNA. I’m a loyal soldier; these guys are part of my army. I always live for my friends and family regardless.”
Joshua added that their deaths have strengthened his commitment to supporting their families.
“It just emphasises the importance of being a second son to their mums. My team has been a great support during this emotional time. It hurts even thinking about it, but I want to put my personal life to one side and keep improving as a fighter. I still believe I have many mountains to climb.”
Following his comeback bout, attention is expected to shift toward a long-awaited showdown with fellow British heavyweight Tyson Fury.
Joshua revealed that while discussions are ongoing, he hopes the fight will eventually take place in the United Kingdom.
“Saturday is my world championship fight. I get the victory, then I get my promotion,” he said.
“I’m going to speak with my team, but it will likely happen in the final quarter of the year. There’s a lot of speculation about the Fury fight, and nothing has been announced yet. I think it should be in the UK because we’re both from there, and the fans have supported us since our debuts. But I’ll leave those decisions to my team.”
Joshua’s return marks not only a new chapter in his boxing career but also an emotional tribute to two friends he says will forever remain part of his journey.
