Kamaru Usman apologises over leaked FaceTime footage
UFC star Kamaru Usman has apologised after footage of a private FaceTime conversation with Anthony Joshua surfaced online, reports BritPanorama.
The criticism directed at the 38-year-old MMA fighter followed the release of a clip showing him conversing with Joshua during preparations for the AKO event in Lagos, Nigeria on 30 December. The timing was particularly poignant as the FaceTime call occurred mere hours after a tragic road accident near Lagos that resulted in the deaths of two individuals.
Usman acknowledged his mistake in forgetting that the conversation was being recorded, as he was under the scrutiny of cameras throughout the day. “After seeing what’s being written it’s quite heartbreaking,” Usman said. “I take full responsibility for not properly watching the video that was released and keeping my private conversation with my brother AJ private. SMH. Big L on me. That’s not something I would ever do to a friend/brother.”
Joshua, who was a passenger in a Lexus SUV involved in the accident, expressed his grief following the incident that claimed the lives of two of his friends and teammates, Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele. Both were buried in London shortly after the footage circulated.
In the leaked video, Joshua is seen in a treatment room, with visible injuries, recounting the harrowing events to Usman. The accident has sparked an outpouring of grief, with Joshua paying tribute to his fallen friends on Instagram. He expressed gratitude for the support received and reflected on the time spent with them, noting the profound impact of their loss.
Joshua conveyed not only his own sorrow but also acknowledged the deeper anguish experienced by the victims’ families. “100 per cent it’s tough for me, but I know it’s even tougher for their parents. I have a strong mind, and I believe God knows their hearts. May God have mercy on my brothers,” he stated.
In light of the tragedy, Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, emphasised the need for the heavyweight boxer to take time for privacy and healing. “At the moment, Anthony needs time. Time and privacy. There will be no conversations from us about a career, any moves, what’s next,” Hearn remarked. He acknowledged the emotional and physical toll the incident has taken on Joshua and called for prayers for all families affected by the accident.
In an arena where the spotlight often seems unyielding, it serves as a stark reminder of how the personal and public can collide, leaving a lasting impact on those caught in the fray. Whether it’s a moment of levity overshadowed by tragedy or a heartfelt connection between friends, the layers of this incident reveal that vulnerability exists even among the strongest figures in sports.
