A close friend of the late fitness trainer, Latif 'Latz' Ayodele, has shared a heartfelt tribute following the tragic road accident that claimed his life on Monday, December 29.
A Friendship Forged Over a Decade
Mustafa Briggs, who was a friend to Latif for nearly ten years, expressed his profound grief in a detailed Facebook post. He described Latif, who was a personal trainer to British-Nigerian boxing champion Anthony Joshua, as far more than just a friend.
Mustafa revealed that Latif was the first person he ever performed the Tawaf with, circling the sacred Kaaba in Mecca together. He also stood beside him during his first visit to the Prophet's chamber in Medina, marking deeply spiritual milestones in their bond.
Remembering a Brother and Companion
In his emotional tribute, Briggs painted a picture of a multifaceted relationship. He referred to Latif as a "brother, a friend, a student, and a companion." Their connection was built on shared experiences that spanned the globe.
The duo travelled internationally together, shared endless conversations late into the night, and experienced both joy and sorrow side by side. Mustafa poignantly stated that they had shared plans, dreams, and aspirations for the future, all now tragically cut short.
His Facebook post read in part: "We had plans. We had dreams. We had aspirations. But when Allah calls, what can we do but answer His call?" He concluded his message with a personal note, saying, "I’m going to miss you, Latz."
The Tragic Accident on Lagos-Ibadan Expressway
The fatal incident occurred when the Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) carrying Latif Ayodele, Anthony Joshua, and another individual, Sina Rambo, collided at high speed with a stationary truck. The accident happened along the busy Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, a major roadway in southwestern Nigeria.
While boxing star Anthony Joshua survived the crash, his fitness trainer, Latif, sadly lost his life. The news sent shockwaves through the sporting and local communities, prompting an outpouring of condolences.
Community Reactions and Legacy
Mustafa Briggs's tribute resonated with many online, drawing sympathetic responses from friends and followers. Comments on his post were filled with prayers for divine mercy and eternal peace for the deceased.
Separate reports have also highlighted Latif Ayodele's lesser-known philanthropic side. He was said to have been actively involved in charitable work in The Gambia, supporting Quranic education for children, orphan welfare, and community development projects, often away from the public eye.
This revelation painted a fuller picture of Latif as not just a fitness professional but also a dedicated humanitarian and mentor, whose loss is felt deeply beyond the boxing ring.
