Boxing has been put firmly into perspective today.
Olympic gold medalist and former two-time Heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua was involved in a tragic car accident earlier today that claimed the lives of two passengers — his close friends and longtime trainers, Sina Ghami and Kevin Ayodele.
Joshua’s most recent opponent, Jake Paul — who suffered a broken jaw in his loss to Joshua on Dec. 19 — was among the first to publicly respond, offering condolences and emphasizing that sport pales in comparison
to the loss of life.
“Life is much more important than boxing. I am praying for the lost lives, AJ, and anyone impacted by today’s unfortunate accident,” Paulo wrote on social media.
“RIP Sina Ghami and Kevin ‘Latif / Latz’ Ayodele. My thoughts and prayers are with their families and friends and AJ.”
Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, along with Matchroom Boxing, later confirmed the details of the accident and released a statement acknowledging the deaths while providing an update on Joshua’s condition.
“With profound sadness it has been confirmed that two close friends and team members, Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele, have tragically passed away,” the statement read. “Matchroom Boxing and 258 BXG 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 under observation.
“Our deepest condolences and prayers are with the families and friends of all those affected. We respectfully ask that their privacy is honored during this incredibly difficult time.”
The tragedy comes just 10 days after Joshua’s emphatic sixth-round knockout victory over Paul in Miami — a stark reminder of how quickly triumph can give way to grief.
