A mood of deep grief enveloped London on Sunday as relatives, friends and members of the boxing community gathered to remember two close confidants of former two-time world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua, whose sudden deaths have reverberated throughout the sport.
The Janaza (funeral prayer) for the late associates of boxing star Anthony Joshua took place in London, drawing mourners who came to pay their final respects.
Sina Ghami and Abdul Latif Kevin Ayodele lost their lives in a fatal road crash in Nigeri last Monday. Joshua was also caught up in the incident but survived with only minor injuries.
The fatal accident, which occurred during a visit to Nigeria last month, has since sparked broader concerns about responsibility and road safety, as legal processes have now commenced.
At the London Central Mosque, a large crowd assembled for the Janaza (funeral) prayer, while Ghami’s burial was scheduled to follow later in the day at Hendon Cemetery and Crematorium from noon.
A wake in honour of both men was also planned for around 3pm at Cavendish Banqueting Hall in North West London. Joshua, who was born in Watford, grew up across North London and Hertfordshire.
The 36-year-old boxer had been travelling as a passenger in a Lexus SUV that crashed into a stationary truck. He was treated and discharged from hospital on New Year’s Eve.
Ahead of the funeral rites, the remains of Ghami and Ayodele were repatriated to the United Kingdom.
Both men were widely seen as key figures within Joshua’s inner circle, contributing significantly to his training, preparation and professional rise. Their passing has darkened what was meant to be a joyful period in the boxer’s career.
Joshua, born in Watford to Nigerian parents, had journeyed to Nigeria for a holiday following his victory over Jake Paul in Miami on December 19.
The driver involved in the crash, Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, was arraigned by the Ogun State Police Command on charges of causing death by dangerous driving and operating a vehicle without a valid licence.
The matter was adjourned until January 20, with the court granting the defendant bail in the sum of ₦5 million. He was remanded in custody pending the fulfilment of his bail conditions.
