British-Nigerian boxing star Anthony Joshua has pledged to support the families of two of his late friends who tragically d!ed in a car crash in Nigeria.

The former heavyweight world champion expressed deep sorrow over the loss and vowed to remain a source of support for their parents, saying he intends to be a “good soldier” for the families during this difficult period.

Joshua is scheduled to face Kristian Prenga in Jeddah on July 25, marking his first fight since the fatal accident that claimed the lives of Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele.

According to reports, Ghami and Ayodele were not only members of Joshua’s team but also close friends who had been part of his life for many years.

Speaking ahead of the bout, Joshua revealed that he has put his personal grief aside to focus on supporting the parents and loved ones of his late friends.

His remarks have drawn sympathy from fans, many of whom praised his commitment to standing by the bereaved families while preparing for his upcoming fight.

“I have to put my emotions to the side because I focus on the parents, if I’m honest,” Joshua said, having pledged to do everything he can to support Ghami and Ayodele’s families, financially and beyond. “My emotions can come at a later stage. I really look at the parents and understand it’s been most difficult for them. So, I don’t make it about me, I make it about them — the mums and the dads of my two friends.”

“Everyone does it differently, but for me that’s the best way of handling the situation. It’s not about me, it’s bigger than me.

“I’m just there for their parents. It’s about being a good soldier for them because I’ve got to look after them.

“This is my purpose. Boxing is not only good for the competitive side of things, but it’s also quite therapeutic; it gives us fighters a lot of purpose, and that’s what it does for me.”