Jake Paul has announced a special tribute in honor of Anthony Joshua’s late friends during the Amanda Serrano vs. Danila Tellez event tonight. Most Valuable Promotions, the company owned by the YouTuber-turned-boxer, has paid homage to Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami by featuring their names prominently on the ring canvas. Both Ayodele and Ghami tragically lost their lives in a recent car accident in Nigeria, while Joshua, who was also involved in the crash, sustained minor injuries.
Following a controversial fight with Paul, Joshua traveled to Nigeria where the fatal accident occurred. The collision took place on the Lagos-Ibadan expressway, resulting in the loss of his two friends. Ahead of the Puerto Rico event on Saturday, Paul and MVP CEO Nakisa Bidarian have ensured that Ayodele and Ghami are remembered.
After confirming the tribute on social media, Paul, who suffered a broken jaw during the fight with Joshua, expressed his condolences with a simple comment. He emphasized the importance of life over boxing in light of the tragic incident.
Joshua has been discharged from the hospital and returned to the United Kingdom for his friends’ funeral arrangements. While a ceremony is planned in London, there are uncertainties regarding Joshua’s attendance due to concerns about drawing unwanted attention.
Reports indicate that Joshua narrowly escaped the fatal crash by changing seats just before the journey began. The driver of the vehicle, Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, has been charged with causing death by dangerous driving. Kayode’s lawyer maintains his client’s innocence, citing a mechanical issue as the cause of the accident.
The case involving Kayode has been adjourned pending trial.