British heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua has paid a heartfelt tribute to his close friends, Sina Ghami and Latif “Latz” Ayodele, following their tragic deaths in a car crash near Lagos, Nigeria.

Joshua, who recently returned to the United Kingdom after attending their funerals, is currently recovering from minor injuries he sustained in the accident.

The boxer took to his official Instagram page on January 8, 2026 to express his grief and honour the memory of the two men, describing them as brothers whose value he only fully realized after their passing.

“Thank you for all the love and care you have shown my brothers. I didn’t even realise how special they are,” Joshua wrote. “I’ll just be walking with them and cracking jokes with them, not even knowing God kept me in the presence of great men.”

In the emotional post, the former two-time unified heavyweight champion admitted the loss has been deeply painful, while acknowledging that the pain felt by their families is even greater.

“100% it’s tough for me, but I know it’s even tougher for their parents,” he added. “I have a strong mind, and I believe God knows their hearts. May God have mercy on my brothers ????.”

The tribute drew an outpouring of support from fans, fellow athletes and celebrities, many of whom praised Joshua for his strength and vulnerability during such a difficult period.

Despite the personal tragedy, Joshua’s message reflected faith, gratitude and compassion, offering comfort not only to himself but also to the bereaved families as they navigate their loss.

The incident occurred on December 29 in Ogun State, near Lagos, involving a Lexus SUV in which Joshua and his friends were travelling. The vehicle reportedly collided with a stationary truck. While Joshua survived the crash and sustained injuries, his two friends sadly lost their lives.