A fatal car crash involving Anthony Joshua has sparked controversy across combat sports after UFC fighter Bryce Mitchell made an unsubstantiated claim that Jake Paul was responsible.
The crash claimed the lives of two of Joshua’s closest confidants, just 10 days after his highly publicized fight with Paul.
Joshua’s strength coach, Sina Ghami, and his personal trainer, Kevin Ayodele, both lost their lives in the accident, prompting a conspiracy claim that has since gone viral.
Bryce Mitchell Makes Explosive, Unsubstantiated Claim
UFC featherweight Bryce Mitchell, known for his outspoken and often controversial commentary, took to social media to suggest the crash was not accidental but a deliberate act linked to Jake Paul.
In a now-deleted video posted to social media, Mitchell claimed that fighters who beat Paul in the ring will face grave consequences. “If you don’t let Jake Paul win, he’s gonna kill you 9 days later,” Mitchell said. “Or kill your best friends. Somebody is going to die if you don’t let him win.”
😳 Bryce Mitchell on Anthony Joshua car crash:
“If you don’t let Jake Paul win, he’s gonna kill you 9 days later.
Or kill your best friends. Somebody is going to die if you don’t let him win.”
(via @ThugnastyMMA) pic.twitter.com/nsqIN9ls1g
— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) December 30, 2025
Mitchell provided no evidence to support the claim. His comments immediately sparked backlash across the combat sports community, with many fans and analysts condemning them as reckless and deeply inappropriate in the wake of a fatal accident.
Jake Paul Responds With Condolences
Jake Paul, who reportedly suffered a double-broken jaw in his loss to Joshua on December 19, addressed the tragedy publicly, focusing on the loss of life rather than the controversy.
In a statement posted to X (formerly Twitter), Paul wrote, “Life is much more important than boxing. I am praying for the lost lives, AJ and anyone impacted by today’s unfortunate accident.”
Life is much more important than boxing. I am praying for the lost lives, AJ and anyone impacted by today’s unfortunate accident.
— Jake Paul (@jakepaul) December 29, 2025
He later added, “RIP Sina Ghami and Kevin ‘Latif / Latz’ Ayodele. My thoughts and prayers are with their families and friends and AJ.”
RIP Sina Ghami and Kevin “Latif / Latz” Ayodele. My thoughts and prayers are with their families and friends and AJ.
— Jake Paul (@jakepaul) December 29, 2025
Official Facts Contradict Mitchell’s Conspiracy Theory
Officials in Ogun State, Nigeria, have released preliminary findings that sharply contradict Mitchell’s accusation. According to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), investigators determined that:
- The vehicle was traveling above the legal speed limit
- The driver lost control while attempting to overtake another vehicle
- The SUV collided with a stationary truck parked on the shoulder
Authorities have described the incident as a traffic accident, with no indication of foul play.
As it stands, Bryce Mitchell’s remarks remain an unproven allegation, while official findings and public statements point to a tragic accident, not a conspiracy theory.
