Latif Ayodele, affectionately known as “Latz” or Kevin Ayodele, was a renowned British-Nigerian personal trainer, fitness consultant, and a pivotal member of former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua’s inner circle. A figure synonymous with discipline and mental fortitude, Ayodele built a reputation that extended far beyond the gym, influencing elite athletes and championing charitable causes across Africa.
His life was tragically cut short on December 29, 2025, in a high-profile car accident in Nigeria that also claimed the life of fellow team member Sina Ghami and injured Anthony Joshua. At the time of his passing, Ayodele was celebrated not just for his physical training expertise, but for his philosophy of a “Healthy Mindset”—a legacy that continues to resonate within the global sporting community.
Quick Facts Overview
- Full Name: Kevin Latif Ayodele (also known as Abdul Latif Ayodele)
- Nickname: Latz
- Date of Birth: 1987 (Approximate)
- Date of Death: December 29, 2025
- Age at Death: 38
- Place of Birth: United Kingdom
- Place of Death: Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, Nigeria
- Nationality: British (Nigerian Heritage)
- Profession: Personal Trainer, Fitness Coach, Philanthropist
- Known For: Personal Trainer to Anthony Joshua; “Healthy Mindset” Brand
- Religion: Islam (Converted in 2012)
- Net Worth (Estimated): $500,000 – $1 Million (USD)
- Status: Deceased
Who Is Latif Ayodele?
Latif Ayodele was a distinguished fitness professional who operated at the highest levels of combat sports. While the public often saw him in the background of Anthony Joshua’s training camps, insiders knew him as a foundational pillar of the boxer’s team. He was responsible for the day-to-day physical conditioning and mental preparation of one of the world’s most famous athletes.
Beyond his association with boxing, Ayodele was a devout Muslim and a motivational figure who used his platform to promote spiritual and physical well-being. He was the founder of the “Healthy Mindset” movement, advocating for a holistic approach to life that combined rigorous physical training with mental clarity and faith.
Early Life and Family Background
Born in the United Kingdom to Nigerian parents, Ayodele grew up straddling two cultures. Public records regarding his parents’ names remain private, but he frequently spoke of his Nigerian heritage with pride, maintaining strong connections to his ancestral home in Ogun State.
Ayodele’s early life was defined by a passion for sports. Before transitioning into fitness coaching, he was a talented footballer. He played semi-professionally for several UK clubs, including Aylesbury United, Tooting & Mitcham United, and Hillingdon Borough. Those who knew him during this period describe a disciplined athlete who possessed a natural leadership quality on the pitch—traits that would later define his coaching career.
Rise to Prominence / Career Journey
From Football to Fitness
After his football career, Ayodele pivoted to the fitness industry. He did not want to be just another gym instructor; he sought to understand the science of performance. He educated himself on biomechanics, nutrition, and strength conditioning, eventually establishing himself as a sought-after personal trainer in London.
The “Team AJ” Connection
Ayodele’s career trajectory changed forever when he began working with Anthony Joshua. Unlike hired consultants who came and went, Ayodele was a constant presence—a “day one” friend who evolved into a professional necessity. He was officially credited as Joshua’s Personal Trainer, working in tandem with Strength and Conditioning Coach Sina Ghami.
Ayodele was instrumental in Joshua’s preparation for some of the biggest fights in boxing history, including bouts against Wladimir Klitschko, Oleksandr Usyk, and the highly publicized 2025 crossover fight against Jake Paul in Miami. His role was to ensure Joshua remained agile, explosive, and mentally sharp, often traveling globally to manage the champion’s regimen.
Political / Professional Influence
While not a politician, Ayodele wielded significant “soft power” within the sporting world. He was a connector who bridged the gap between Western athletic standards and African development.
* Mentorship: He was a mentor to younger athletes, particularly those from immigrant backgrounds in the UK, showing them a pathway to success through discipline rather than crime.
* Philanthropy: Ayodele was deeply involved with the Spot Project, a UK-based Muslim charity supporting orphans in The Gambia. He frequently traveled to Africa to lead fitness sessions for children and oversee the construction of orphanages and schools.
* Celebrity Network: His reputation attracted other high-profile clients. He was known to have trained or advised other sports stars, including interactions with figures like Badou Jack and Sonny Bill Williams, further cementing his status as a top-tier performance coach.
Personal Life
Conversion to Islam
A defining moment in Ayodele’s life was his conversion to Islam in 2012. Born Kevin Ayodele, he adopted the name Abdul Latif, though he kept “Kevin” for legal documents. He often cited his faith as the source of his discipline and inner peace. His social media feeds were a blend of workout clips and Islamic reminders, reflecting a man who viewed his body as a trust from God.
Family and Privacy
Despite his proximity to fame, Ayodele was notoriously private about his domestic life.
* Marital Status: Public records do not confirm the name of his spouse, though close associates have described him as a “devoted family man.”
* Residence: He split his time between London and Dubai, the latter becoming a frequent training base for his clients.
Net Worth and Income Sources
At the time of his death, Latif Ayodele’s net worth was estimated to be between $500,000 and $1 Million.
* Primary Income: His salary as a core member of Anthony Joshua’s training camp was his most significant revenue stream. Elite trainers at this level often command high annual retainers plus bonuses for fight victories.
* Private Coaching: He maintained a roster of high-net-worth private clients in London and Dubai.
* Brand Endorsements: As a fitness influencer, he collaborated with sports nutrition and apparel brands, leveraging his “Healthy Mindset” persona.
Controversies or Public Criticism
Latif Ayodele largely avoided public controversy during his lifetime. He was viewed as the “quiet professional” in a sport known for trash talk and drama.
* The Accident Scrutiny: The only significant public scrutiny arose posthumously regarding the circumstances of the car crash. Questions were raised in the Nigerian press about the safety measures taken by the team’s convoy and the condition of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. However, these criticisms were directed at the infrastructure and logistics rather than Ayodele himself.
Death
On December 29, 2025, tragedy struck. Ayodele was traveling in a Lexus SUV on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway in Nigeria, alongside Anthony Joshua and Sina Ghami. The group was on a holiday trip following Joshua’s victory over Jake Paul earlier that month.
According to police reports, the vehicle collided with a stationary truck at approximately 12:00 PM local time.
* Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami sustained fatal injuries and were pronounced dead at the scene.
* Anthony Joshua survived with minor injuries.
The news sent shockwaves through the sporting world. Ayodele was just 38 years old. His body was returned to the UK, where a funeral service (Janaza) was held at the London Central Mosque on January 4, 2026.
Legacy and Public Perception
Latif Ayodele is remembered as a “soldier” of the fitness world—loyal, disciplined, and humble.
* Tributes: Tributes poured in from global icons. Anthony Joshua described him as a “brother” whose impact was immeasurable. Even former opponents like Jake Paul offered condolences, acknowledging Ayodele’s professionalism.
* The Mosque Project: Immediately following his death, a fundraiser was launched to build a mosque in his memory. It raised over £100,000 within days, a testament to the high regard in which he was held by the Muslim community.
* “Healthy Mindset”: His catchphrase and philosophy continue to inspire his followers, serving as a reminder that physical strength is nothing without mental and spiritual fortitude.
FAQs
Who was Latif Ayodele?
Latif Ayodele was a British-Nigerian personal trainer and fitness coach, best known as a core member of boxer Anthony Joshua’s team.
How did Latif Ayodele die?
He died in a car accident on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway in Nigeria on December 29, 2025, when the vehicle he was in collided with a stationary truck.
Was Anthony Joshua in the car with Latif Ayodele?
Yes, Anthony Joshua was in the same vehicle but survived the crash with only minor injuries.
What was Latif Ayodele’s religion?
He was a devout Muslim, having converted to Islam in 2012. He frequently shared his faith journey publicly.
How old was Latif Ayodele?
He was 38 years old at the time of his death.
Did Latif Ayodele play football?
Yes, before becoming a trainer, he played semi-professional football for clubs like Aylesbury United and Tooting & Mitcham United.
What is the “Healthy Mindset”?
“Healthy Mindset” was Ayodele’s personal brand and philosophy, emphasizing the connection between physical fitness, mental health, and spiritual discipline.
Who else died in the accident?
Sina Ghami, Anthony Joshua’s long-time strength and conditioning coach, also died in the same accident.
Conclusion
The life of Latif Ayodele was a testament to the power of transformation and loyalty. From a semi-pro footballer to a confidant of a heavyweight champion, he carved a niche for himself through sheer work ethic and an unwavering commitment to others. While his death in late 2025 was a devastating blow to the boxing community, his legacy lives on through the Spot Project charity work and the countless individuals he inspired to adopt a “Healthy Mindset.” He remains a poignant reminder of the fragile nature of life, even for the strongest among us.
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