‘How special they are’ – Anthony Joshua pens full emotional tribute to two friends who died in car accident

Anthony Joshua has paid an emotional social media tribute to friends Latif ‘Latz’ Ayodele and Sina Ghami who passed away in a car crash.

Joshua, 36, was involved in a tragic car accident in Nigeria, which saw his personal trainer Ayodele and strength and conditioning coach Ghami pass away.

The former heavyweight world champion was hospitalised for two days, but subsequently returned home to the UK to pay his respects at their funeral.

Ghami and Ayodele were laid to rest at London Central Mosque, a ceremony in which Joshua attended.

And he has now penned a full tribute to his two friends who passed, thanking everyone for their support.

It read: “Thank you for all the love and care you have shown my brothers.

“I didn’t even realise how special they are. I’ll just be walking with them and cracking jokes with them, not even knowing God kept me in the presence of great men.

“100% it’s tough for me, but I know it’s even tougher for their parents.

“I have a strong mind, and I believe God knows their hearts.

“May God have mercy on my brothers.”

The post contained a picture of the pair, and was flooded with support.

It was Joshua’s second time speaking out on the sad passing of his friends in the collision.

UFC star Conor McGregor was one of many to react, leaving a prayer emoji underneath the post.

His promotional company Matchroom Boxing also left a heart, with super-middleweight fighter Christian Mbilli doing the same.

Anthony Joshua’s friends – tributes pour in

Many in the boxing community reached out to Joshua and the family of his friends after learning of the incident.

Long-term rival Tyson Fury posted: “This is so sad. May God give them a good bed in heaven.”

Former two-time fight opponent Oleksandr Usyk wrote: “This is an unbelievable loss.

“[Sina and Latz] were two incredible people who were not only part of AJ’s team, but also friends!

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“My sincere condolences to their families, loved ones, and everyone who knew them.

“Anthony Joshua – wishing you a speedy recovery. Stay strong, champion.”

Eddie Hearn spoke to talkSPORT and paid his own tribute, insisting that focus on Joshua’s boxing career is being put to one side.