A Nigerian man residing in the United Kingdom has provided a poignant account of the funeral service held for two close associates of British-Nigerian heavyweight boxing champion, Anthony Joshua. The somber event took place in London following a fatal road accident in Nigeria.
A Tragic Accident in Ogun State
The incident that led to the funeral occurred on December 29, 2025, along a major road in Ogun State, Nigeria. A car carrying the boxer and his three companions collided with a stationary truck. The crash claimed the lives of Joshua's two friends and team members, Abdul Latif and Sina Ghami.
Anthony Joshua himself sustained minor injuries in the collision. He was transported to a hospital for treatment in a police vehicle, as reports indicated that an ambulance was not immediately available at the scene of the accident.
London Burial and Joshua's Personal Tribute
The final rites for Abdul Latif and Sina Ghami were held on Sunday, January 4, 2026, in London. The service was attended by Anthony Joshua, who was present to pay his last respects to his departed friends.
Alistair Soyode, the UK-based Nigerian attendee, shared his observations on Facebook. He posted a photo from the ceremony and revealed a significant action the boxer took before the burial proceedings began. According to Soyode, prior to the ceremony, Joshua issued a public update regarding the car crash that injured him and took the lives of his friends.
Soyode described the event as the burial of "Anthony Joshua's Coach and Trainer," which he attended in the company of a minister from the NHC. He noted that the ceremony drew a large crowd, with families, friends, and associates numbering in the hundreds gathering for prayers in London before the interment at Hendon Cemetery.
Most movingly, Soyode highlighted the caption Joshua used in his tribute message: "My Brothers Keeper." This simple phrase underscored the deep personal loss felt by the champion boxer.
Public Reaction and Mourning
The news of the burial and Joshua's tribute sparked an outpouring of sympathy and condolences online. Reactions from social media users reflected the collective grief.
Princess Halima Jubril expressed her sadness, praying for God to rest their souls and comfort the families. Akeju Olagbaju hoped the event was covered by BEN TV for wider viewing. Others, like Martha CH, lamented the tragic loss of young lives filled with potential.
Comments from Tunde Ayandosu and Jenny Chika Okafor focused on prayers for the departed souls and for Joshua's emotional healing, recognizing the heavy burden he now carries. The general sentiment emphasized support for the boxer and the bereaved families during this difficult period.
The incident and its aftermath have cast a shadow, reminding the public of the personal trials faced by public figures like Anthony Joshua, even as the boxing world awaits his return to the ring.
