Former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua has released his first public statement following a car crash in Nigeria that resulted in the deaths of two men he described as his brothers.

Joshua shared the statement on social media after the incident, which occurred in Nigeria and claimed the lives of Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele. The boxer survived the crash and later addressed the tragedy publicly for the first time.

In his message, Joshua thanked supporters for their condolences and reflected on the loss of the two men, who were part of the boxer’s training staff. “Thank you for all the love and care you have shown my brothers,” Joshua said. “I didn’t even realise how special they are.”

Joshua also spoke about memories he shared with them and the impact they had on his life. “I’ll just be walking with them and cracking jokes with them, not even knowing God kept me in the presence of great men,” he said.

He acknowledged the emotional difficulty of the situation and noted the effect on their families. “100% it’s tough for me, but I know it’s even tougher for their parents,” Joshua said. “I have a strong mind, and I believe God knows their hearts. May God have mercy on my brothers.”

The statement marked Joshua’s first public comments since the crash, as he continues to mourn the loss of close friends and support those affected.

The incident occurred just days after Joshua defeating Jake Paul via knockout in his most recently professional bout.