Jake Paul announced a special tribute honoring the late friends of Anthony Joshua at the Amanda Serrano vs. Danila Tellez event. The names of Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami, who tragically lost their lives in a recent car crash in Nigeria, have been displayed in the center of the ring canvas by Paul’s promotion, Most Valuable Promotions.
Following a controversial fight with Paul, Joshua traveled to Nigeria where the fatal accident occurred. The collision, involving an SUV and a stationary truck on the Lagos-Ibadan expressway, resulted in the loss of his friends’ lives. Despite sustaining minor injuries, Joshua survived the crash.
Ahead of the Puerto Rico event, Jake Paul and MVP CEO Nakisa Bidarian ensured that Ayodele and Ghami were appropriately honored. Paul, acknowledging the tribute on social media, shared a message of support and solidarity, emphasizing the value of life over sports.
Joshua has been discharged from the hospital and flown back to the United Kingdom for his friends’ funeral arrangements. There is uncertainty regarding Joshua’s attendance at the funeral due to concerns that his presence may overshadow the solemn occasion.
In a twist of fate, Joshua narrowly escaped the tragedy by switching seats with his driver just before the ill-fated journey. The driver, Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, faces charges of causing death by dangerous driving. Kayode’s lawyer maintains his client’s innocence, citing mechanical issues as a possible cause of the accident.
The case involving Kayode has been adjourned for trial in January. The sequence of events leading up to the accident has raised questions about safety and responsibility in the aftermath of the devastating loss of lives.