Boxer Anthony Joshua Injured in Fatal Crash, Driver Charged
Former heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua was injured in a tragic vehicle collision in Nigeria that claimed the lives of two close team members. The driver of the vehicle has now been charged with multiple offenses, raising serious questions about road safety in the region.
Why It Matters
The incident highlights the ongoing challenges of road safety in Nigeria, where high accident rates often stem from reckless driving and inadequate enforcement of traffic regulations. The loss of two of Joshua’s close associates has drawn significant attention not just due to his fame but also as a troubling reminder of the dangers faced by travelers in the country.
Key Developments
- Joshua’s driver, Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, 46, faces charges including causing death by dangerous driving and driving without a valid license.
- Joshua’s personal trainer, Latif Ayodele, and strength coach, Sina Ghami, were killed in the crash on Monday.
- The former champion was hospitalized with injuries but released on Wednesday.
- Kayode has been granted bail of 5 million Naira (£2,578) but remains under judicial scrutiny as the case continues.
- The tragic incident has drawn responses from prominent figures, including Eddie Hearn, Joshua’s longtime promoter.
Full Report
Details of the Crash
The accident occurred on the Lagos-Ibadan expressway, where Joshua was a passenger in a Lexus SUV that collided with a stationary truck. Both Ayodele and Ghami died at the scene, while Joshua was photographed being evacuated from the wreckage and subsequently taken to a local hospital.
Charges Against the Driver
Following the incident, Kayode was charged at the Sagamu Magistrates’ Court with several offenses, including causing death by dangerous driving and reckless driving. Police sources confirmed that he had failed to possess a valid driver’s license at the time of the crash. His case has been adjourned until January 20, and he was remanded on bail pending compliance with the judicial conditions.
Reactions and Memorials
In the wake of this tragedy, Joshua has expressed deep sorrow over the loss of his friends, both of whom played pivotal roles in his boxing career. After returning from the hospital, he visited the funeral home where their bodies were being prepared for repatriation. Joshua had shared a moment of joy with Ayodele just hours before the crash, as they were seen playing table tennis on his social media.
Eddie Hearn paid tribute to the deceased team members on social media, stating, “Rest in peace Latz and Sina. Your energy and loyalty among so many other great qualities will be deeply missed.”
Context & Previous Events
Joshua, 36, was in Nigeria to celebrate New Year with relatives in Sagamu, a town that holds personal significance for him. He had recently achieved victory over American YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul on December 19, and the incident has sparked conversations about the perils of travel and road conditions in Nigeria.
Jake Paul expressed his condolences via social media, acknowledging the greater importance of life over the sport and offering prayers for those affected by the accident.
