The boxing world and the philanthropic community in West Africa are mourning a significant loss following a fatal road accident on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. The crash claimed the life of Latif "Latz" Ayodele, the renowned fitness trainer and close friend of British-Nigerian boxing champion Anthony Joshua.
A Tragic Accident on a Major Highway
The tragic incident occurred on Monday, December 29, 2025. According to reports, the SUV carrying Anthony Joshua and members of his team collided at high speed with a stationary truck along the busy Lagos-Ibadan Expressway in Ogun State. While the former heavyweight world champion survived with minor injuries and was receiving treatment in a Lagos hospital, the accident proved fatal for two members of his entourage.
Ayodele, Joshua's fitness trainer, and Sina Ghami, his strength and conditioning coach, both lost their lives in the devastating collision. The news sent shockwaves through the sports community, with an outpouring of grief for the departed professionals.
The Hidden Humanitarian: Latz's Secret Life in The Gambia
As tributes poured in, a touching dimension of Latif Ayodele's life, largely unknown to the public, came to light through a heartfelt Facebook post by a user named Elijah Lowe. The post revealed that beyond his public persona as a elite fitness coach to a global star, "Latz" was a dedicated humanitarian with deep ties to The Gambia.
Elijah disclosed that Ayodele was actively involved in several philanthropic initiatives in the West African nation. His charitable work, conducted quietly away from the spotlight, focused on supporting children's Quranic education, providing aid to orphans, and contributing to broader community development projects.
In his emotional tribute, Elijah Lowe wrote, "Gambia has lost a friend, mentor, and humanitarian." He emphasized that Ayodele's good deeds were performed without seeking public recognition, painting a picture of a man driven by genuine compassion.
Community Reactions and Final Tributes
The revelation of Ayodele's charitable side resonated deeply, prompting an avalanche of prayers and condolences online. Verified Facebook page, Gamfoot Transfers, also confirmed his involvement with The Gambia's Spot Project, where he regularly supported community initiatives and generously contributed to charitable causes.
Social media reactions were unified in grief and respect. User Oli Yayi Ali prayed, "May Allah have mercy on his soul and grant him Jannah Ameen," a sentiment echoed by many others like Assan Jobarteh and Muhammad Khatani Trawally, who asked for forgiveness and the highest ranks in paradise for the deceased.
Meanwhile, netizens visiting Ayodele's Instagram page, @healthy_mindset, were moved by his final post, which has since become a poignant memorial. The accident has not only robbed the boxing world of a skilled trainer but has also extinguished a quiet force for good in The Gambia, leaving a legacy defined by both strength and secret kindness.
