Kevin 'Latz' Ayodele was spotted playing table tennis with Anthony Joshua just hours before atragic car crash which claimed the personal trainer's life. The news emerged that Joshua and four other men had been involved in a collision on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway on Monday.

The Federal Road Safety Corps of Nigeria soon after took to X to share its preliminary findings. In a statement, the FRSC wrote: "The incident involved two vehicles: a black Lexus Jeep [sic] 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.

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"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."

It was later confirmed that the two men who died in the car crash were team-mates of Joshua in his personal trainer, Ayodele, and his strength and conditioning coach, Sina Ghami. Just hours before the incident, however, AJ and Ayodele were spotted playing a friendly game of table tennis with one another.

Sharing a short snap of their relaxed match on Instagram, Joshua wrote: "@healthy_mindset dishing out table tennis smoke," while images on Latz's social media showed the two posing shirtless beside a swimming pool just five days ago with a message: "Looking like we just swam back from Miami," hinting at Joshua's knockout win over Jake Paul.

In the hours since the news of the crash emerged, a number of close friends of Joshua have taken to social media to share their messages of condolence. Matchroom Boxing also shared a statement confirming the passing of Latz and Ghami.

A spokesperson wrote 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 promotor, Eddie Hearn, also posted 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."

Elsewhere, the Governments of the Ogun and Lagos States came together to share joint statement, in which, they explained that Joshua was conscious and had spoken with his family.

It added: "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."