Oleksandr Usyk pens emotional tribute to Anthony Joshua after crash which killed two friends

Oleksandr Usyk has shared a heartfelt message to Anthony Joshua after an accident killed two of his close friends.

Joshua was involved in a car crash on Monday in Nigeria, which tragically claimed the lives of both Kevin ‘Lateef’ Ayodele and Sina Ghami.

Both men were also integral parts of AJ’s team, with Ayodele working as his strength and conditioning coach and Ghami as his sport and exercise rehabilitation coach.

Following the devastating incident, there has been an outpouring of support as fans, fighters and promoters have all dedicated messages to Joshua.

The reigning heavyweight king, Usyk, has since offered his condolences to his former two-time rival.

He wrote on Instagram: “This is an unbelievable loss.

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

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

“Anthony Joshua – wishing you a speedy recovery.

“Stay strong, champion.”

Usyk defeated Joshua in their two bouts in 2021 and 2022, but the pair have since been reunited in the gym.

Prior to the accident, Joshua had trained with Usyk’s team in Spain, who helped him prepare for his KO win over Jake Paul.

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Joshua had travelled out to Nigeria, where he has family roots, following his victory over Paul in Miami which garnered a huge 33 million viewers.

Hours before the horrific incident, he shared a video on his social media that showed him enjoying his downtime by playing table tennis with Ayodele.

What is Anthony Joshua’s condition after the accident?

The British boxing star now remains in hospital, where he has been placed under observation for the injuries he sustained.

He is reported to be in a ‘stable condition’ according to the statement given on his behalf by an official spokesman.

While no further statement has been given, it’s expected that an update will follow in due course.

Prior to the accident, Joshua was tipped to fight again in February or March before a hotly anticipated showdown with Tyson Fury.

Fury has since offered his support to AJ after hearing that Ayodele and Ghami had lost their lives.

He wrote: “This is so sad. May God give them a good bed in heaven.”