Anthony Joshua Honors Late Friends with Heartfelt Tattoo After Tragic Car Crash
In a deeply personal gesture, heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua has paid tribute to two close friends who lost their lives in a tragic car accident in Nigeria last month. The 36-year-old athlete has had their names permanently inked on his arm, a move that has resonated with fans and followers worldwide.
The Tragic Incident and Emotional Tribute
The devastating crash occurred on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway in December 2026, claiming the lives of Sina Ghami, Joshua's strength and conditioning coach, and Latif "Latz" Ayodele, one of his trainers. Joshua, who was also in the vehicle at the time, was hospitalized but later discharged, returning to the UK to attend their funerals.
Now, in a poignant act of remembrance, Joshua visited a London tattoo parlour to have the names LATZ and SINA tattooed underneath an existing outline of Africa on his right bicep. The Fulham Tattoo studio shared images on Instagram, expressing gratitude for the unexpected visit from the two-time heavyweight champion.
Public Reaction and Joshua's Emotional Response
Pictures of the new tattoos quickly went viral online, sparking an outpouring of support and sympathy from fans. Social media users commented on the visible pain in Joshua's eyes, with many urging him to take time to heal from the trauma.
In an emotional video posted on Instagram last month, Joshua spoke publicly for the first time about the loss. He described his late friends as "major players" in his life, emphasizing their roles not just as business partners but as brothers and housemates. "I felt protected," he said, highlighting the profound impact of their absence.
Background and Family Insights
Born in Watford to Nigerian parents, Joshua was on holiday in Lagos after his victory over Jake Paul in Miami on December 19. The crash has led to speculation about his future in boxing, with his uncle hinting at possible retirement in related reports. However, Joshua has focused on honoring his friends' memories through this heartfelt tattoo.
The incident underscores the unpredictable nature of life, as Joshua reflected on how plans for wrapping up 2025 were abruptly overturned. His tribute serves as a lasting memorial to two individuals who played significant roles in his personal and professional journey.
