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Latif 'Latz' Ayodele was seen playing table tennis with Anthony Joshua just hours before a fatal car crash took the life of the personal trainer. It was reported that Joshua and four other men were involved in a collision on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway on Monday.

The Federal Road Safety Corps of Nigeria subsequently released its initial findings. In a statement, the FRSC stated: "The incident involved two vehicles: a black Lexus Jeep and a stationary red commercial Sinotruck with unknown registration number. A total of five adult males were involved in the crash. Two persons sadly lost their lives, one sustained injuries, while two others escaped unhurt. Anthony Joshua was rescued alive and sustained minor injuries."

"The injured victim was evacuated for medical attention, while the remains of the deceased were conveyed to Livewell Morgue, Ajaka, Sagamu. The Nigeria Police Motor Traffic Division (MTD) was duly notified for further investigation and necessary documentation."

"Preliminary findings indicate that the Lexus Jeep, which was suspected to be travelling beyond the legally prescribed speed limit on the corridor, lost control during an overtaking manoeuvre and crashed into a stationary truck well packed by the side of the road."

The two individuals who tragically lost their lives in the car crash were identified as Joshua's personal trainer, Ayodele, and his strength and conditioning coach, Sina Ghami. In a poignant twist of fate, just hours before the fatal incident, Joshua and Ayodele were seen enjoying a friendly game of table tennis.

Joshua shared a brief clip of their casual match on Instagram, captioning it: "@healthy_mindset dishing out table tennis smoke," A post on Latz's social media from five days prior showed the pair posing shirtless by a swimming pool, with the caption: "Looking like we just swam back from Miami," alluding to Joshua's knockout victory over Jake Paul.

Following the devastating news of the accident, several of Joshua's close friends expressed their condolences on social media. Matchroom Boxing also released a statement confirming the deaths of Latz and Ghami.

A spokesperson posted on Instagram: "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.

"Matchroom Boxing and 258 BXG can confirm that Anthony sustained injuries in the accident and was taken to hospital for checks and treatment. He is in a stable condition and will remain there for observation.

"Our deepest condolences and prayers are with the families and friends of all those affected - and we ask that their privacy is respected at this incredibly difficult time. No further comment will be made at this time."

Joshua's promoter, Eddie Hearn, also shared the statement on his own Instagram page, adding: "With the heaviest of hearts. Two great men. Rest in eternal peace Sina and Latz. My thoughts and deepest prayers are with everyone."

The governments of the Ogun and Lagos States issued a joint statement, explaining that Joshua was conscious and had spoken with his family.

The statement read: "The Governments of Ogun and Lagos States are closely monitoring the situation and will ensure that the affected persons receive the best possible medical care. Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the accident have also commenced.

"We appreciate the concern shown by members of the public and kindly request privacy for Anthony Joshua and his family at this time."