Jake Paul and Chris Eubank Jr have led tributes to the victims of a fatal car crash in Nigeria which left star boxer Anthony Joshua in hospital.
Two of Joshua’s closest friends were killed in the devastating smash in Nigeria – while the former heavyweight world champion was rushed to hospital.
The former wrote on social media: “RIP Sina Ghami and Kevin ‘Latif/Latz’ Ayodele. My thoughts and prayers are with their families and friends and AJ.”
Eubank Jr added: “Thank god our heavyweight champ survived that horrible car crash.
“And pray for the two fallen soldiers Latz & Sina & their families. I knew both… they were genuinely good men. Rest in Peace boys.”
Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn had earlier released a statement on Instagram confirming the deaths.
Joshua and Latif Ayodele (right) and Sina Ghami (centre-left) had all travelled to Nigeria
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INSTAGRAM/HEALTHY_MINDSET
“With profound sadness it has been confirmed that two close friends and team members Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele have tragically passed away,” Hearn said.
“Our deepest condolences and prayers are with the families and friends of all those affected – and we asked that their privacy is respected at this incredibly difficult time.”
Television presenter Josh Denzel, formerly of Love Island, shared an emotional message about both men.
“I can’t believe you two have gone,” he wrote. “Both of you had the cleanest hearts and the most upbeat positive attitude.
READ MORE ON ANTHONY JOSHUA:
Chris Eubank Jr and Jake Paul have led tributes to the tragic pair
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“Nothing fazed you. From fight weeks to nights at the hangout to trips to the Banc you boys brought me the best energy every single time.
“It won’t be the same without you man, rest in eternal peace.”
Meanwhile, a fundraiser to build a mosque in Latif Ayodele’s memory has already raised £37,000.
And X-Factor winner Myles Stephenson also paid tribute to his friend, sharing an image of Ayodele with the words: “My brother. Will miss talking smack with you.”
Joshua, 36, is said to have arrived in Nigeria on Sunday for a week-long holiday, and was travelling in the rear of the vehicle when the crash occurred.
Anthony Joshua appeared dazed in video footage that emerged on social media after his car crash | X
Five men were inside the Lexus, which was being driven by a locally hired driver.
Two passengers are said to have escaped without injury.
A spokesman for the ex-Team GB olympian confirmed on Monday: “Anthony Joshua was involved in a road traffic accident in Lagos, Nigeria, earlier today.
“With profound sadness it has been confirmed that two close friends and team members Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele have tragically passed away.”
