The global boxing community has rallied together to preserve the legacy of Latif Ayodele, the late fitness trainer of former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua, following his tragic death in a road accident in Nigeria. A fundraiser established in his memory has raised more than $180,000, underscoring the profound influence he had both within the sport and beyond it.
The fundraising campaign was launched by the SPOT Project on Monday, December 29, 2025, shortly after confirmation emerged that Ayodele and fellow team member Sina Ghami had lost their lives in a devastating car crash. Reports indicate that the Lexus SUV in which they were travelling collided with a stationary truck parked along the roadside. Joshua survived the accident with minor injuries, though the emotional impact of the loss has been significant.
Widely known as “Latz,” Ayodele was far more than a fitness coach to Joshua. He was a trusted confidant and an integral part of the boxer’s daily routine, overseeing training sessions while also offering personal guidance grounded in discipline and faith. Just hours before the accident, Joshua and Ayodele were seen sharing a light-hearted game of table tennis—an ordinary moment that would tragically become their last together.
The initiative seeks to honour Ayodele’s life and values by funding the construction of a mosque (masjid) and a borehole in his name. Organisers say the project is intended to ensure that his legacy continues to serve communities long after his passing.
“I’m absolutely shocked that he died today, and I want to be part of the people who help keep his legacy alive,” read a statement on the fundraiser’s website, as quoted by TMZ Sports. “This is why we’ve decided that we want to build a masjid and uphold his legacy.”
By Tuesday, December 30, donations had exceeded $180,000. Organisers also noted Ayodele’s longstanding support for the SPOT Project, highlighting his commitment to youth empowerment and community development.
Ayodele’s life was marked by personal transformation and purpose. After embracing Islam, he adopted the name Abdul Latif, reflecting a deep spiritual journey. A former semi-professional footballer, he brought a strong understanding of the physical and mental demands of elite sport—qualities that made him an invaluable member of Joshua’s team.
His passing comes at a sensitive moment for Anthony Joshua, who had been expected to return to the ring in February 2026, with reports linking him to a major bout in Saudi Arabia. Those plans have reportedly been put on hold as Joshua remains in hospital and focuses on his recovery.
In a related account, a Nigerian woman who witnessed the accident described the scene as sudden and terrifying, explaining that she and her husband had stopped along the roadside to fix a flat tyre just moments before the crash occurred.
As tributes continue to pour in, the overwhelming support for the fundraiser stands as a powerful testament to Latif Ayodele’s character, compassion, and enduring impact on boxing and the wider community.
Source: Yen.com.gh
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