A close associate of British heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua has shared a deeply emotional message online, mourning the tragic loss of two friends and vowing to support the family left behind. The post, made on Instagram, came weeks after the fatal accident in Nigeria that claimed the lives of Latif Ayodele and Sina, both known to be companions of the boxing star.
A Solemn Promise to a Grieving Mother
In his poignant tribute, the man, identified as Leon Skinner, directed heartfelt words to his late friend Latif, widely known as Latz. He made a significant promise concerning the welfare of Latif's mother, who is navigating the profound pain of losing her son. Skinner assured that she would be "in good hands and taken care of," emphasizing a sense of brotherly duty and responsibility that extends beyond friendship into familial care. This pledge aimed to offer some solace, indicating that the close-knit group surrounding the deceased would not abandon their loved ones in a time of immense need.
Processing the Shock of a Sudden Loss
Leon Skinner's post also delved into the collective shock and grief experienced by their circle. He revealed that both men were only 36 years old, a fact that made their untimely passing even more difficult to accept. Skinner highlighted the depth of their bond, which spanned over two decades, describing how the group now leans on each other for mutual support and healing. He included a reference to a moving tribute delivered by Michael Jarman, which featured prayers and recitations to honor the memories of Latif and Sina.
The accident occurred while Latif Ayodele and Sina were on a trip in Nigeria with Anthony Joshua. The sudden nature of the tragedy was underscored in Skinner's words: "Life really does come at you fast." He concluded his message by stating that the years 2026 and beyond would be dedicated to honoring his departed brothers and thanked the public for their outpouring of condolences and support for the families and friends affected.
Outpouring of Support on Social Media
The emotional Instagram post quickly attracted reactions from numerous users, who flooded the comments section with messages of sympathy and strength. Comments ranged from prayers and expressions of love to personal assurances of support. Users like Ishmaelmiller17 and Fitbyagnes sent "love and strength" and offered their "thoughts and prayers," while others simply expressed their sorrow and solidarity with the grieving families and friends. This online response highlighted the wider impact of the loss and the community forming around shared grief.
The incident serves as a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring importance of community and loyalty in the face of tragedy. The commitment shown by friends like Leon Skinner to uphold the care of a grieving parent reflects a powerful aspect of Nigerian social bonds and collective responsibility.
