Former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua has pledged to support the families of two close associates who died in a tragic road accident in Nigeria.
The fatal crash claimed the lives of Joshua’s personal trainer, Latif Ayodele, and strength and conditioning coach, Sina Ghami.
The accident reportedly occurred on 29 December along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway when the SUV carrying the trio collided with a stationary truck. Joshua survived with minor injuries.
Since the tragedy, the British-Nigerian boxer says his focus has been on supporting the bereaved families rather than dwelling on his own grief.
Speaking ahead of his scheduled bout against Albanian boxer Kristian Prenga in Jeddah on 25 July, Joshua described caring for the parents of his late friends as a personal responsibility.
“I have to put my emotions to the side because I focus on the parents, if I’m honest,” Joshua told Boxing Scene.
“My emotions can come at a later stage. I really look at the parents and understand it’s been most difficult for them. So I don’t make it about me, I make it about them — the mums and the dads of my two friends.
“Everyone handles it differently, but for me that’s the best way of dealing with the situation. It’s not about me; it’s bigger than me.
“I’m just there for their parents. It’s about being a good soldier for them because I’ve got to look after them.”
Joshua added that boxing has provided emotional balance during the difficult period.
“This is my purpose. Boxing is not only good for the competitive side of things, but it is also quite therapeutic. It gives fighters a lot of purpose, and that’s what it does for me.”
The two-time heavyweight champion’s remarks have highlighted the personal burden he continues to carry while preparing for his return to the ring.
