“I’ve Lost People Before, But Not Like This” – Anthony Joshua Pays Emotional Tribute To His Fallen Pillars Of Strength
OpenLife Nigeria reports that Anthony Joshua has spoken about the deep grief he is facing after a tragic road accident in Nigeria took the lives of two men closest to him.
The 36-year-old British heavyweight boxer shared a moving message on social media, thanking fans from around the world for their support during what he described as a profoundly difficult period.
The accident occurred on December 29 on a major Lagos highway when the vehicle Joshua was traveling in collided with a
stationary truck.
Joshua suffered only minor injuries, but the crash killed his strength and conditioning coach, Sina Ghami, and his personal trainer, Latif “Latz” Ayodele, instantly.
In a six-minute video, Joshua reflected on the fragility of life and the pain of losing those closest to him.
“One day my time will come, and I’m not scared at all,” he said. “It’s comforting knowing I’ve got two brothers on the other side. I’ve lost people before, but not like this my left and my right.”
He also acknowledged the ripple effect of the tragedy on families and friends.
“Their parents, relatives, friends, and I lost two incredible people who were central to our lives. It’s tough really tough,” Joshua said.
Authorities have begun legal proceedings, and the driver of the Lexus SUV involved, 46-year-old Adeniyi Kayode, faces four charges, including causing death by dangerous driving.
Despite the emotional strain, Joshua has returned to training.
He shared a Snapchat video of himself working on the pads, describing the routine as “mental strength therapy,” highlighting the role of discipline and focus in coping with loss.
The boxer also expressed his gratitude to those who supported him during the ordeal, naming medical staff at Lagoon Hospital in Ikoyi, as well as President Bola Tinubu, industrialists Femi Otedola and Aliko Dangote, Senator Daisy Danjuma, Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, and the governors of Lagos and Ogun states.
Joshua’s reflections combine sorrow and resilience, illustrating the struggle of facing life-altering loss while continuing to find strength in daily life and training.
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