Driver Faces Charges After Tragic Crash Involving Anthony Joshua

The Nigerian police have officially charged the driver responsible for a serious road accident that left British boxing champion Anthony Joshua injured, while tragically claiming the lives of two important members of his team.

Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, aged 46, was charged on Friday at the Sagamu Magistrates' Court in Ogun State. According to police reports, the charges include causing death by dangerous driving alongside additional serious traffic violations.

The devastating incident occurred on Monday on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, a key highway in southwestern Nigeria. Joshua and his team were traveling in a Lexus SUV that reportedly crashed into a stationary truck.

At the scene, both Latif Ayodele, Joshua's personal trainer, and strength coach Sina Ghami were confirmed dead. Anthony Joshua was injured during the crash and subsequently taken to the hospital but was discharged by Wednesday.

Police sources have stated that Kayode faces four specific charges:

• Causing death by dangerous driving

• Reckless and negligent driving

• Driving without due care and attention

• Driving without a valid driver’s license

The court granted bail to Kayode, set at ₦5 million (around £2,578). He will remain in custody until he meets all bail conditions, with the case adjourned to 20 January.

Images released by Nigeria’s Federal Road Safety Corps depicted the severely damaged SUV at the accident site, surrounded by emergency responders and onlookers.

Officials from Ogun and Lagos states later released a joint statement indicating that Joshua was feeling "heavy-hearted" over the loss of his close friends and teammates.

After being discharged from the hospital, Joshua paid a visit to the funeral home where preparations were being made for repatriating the bodies of Ayodele and Ghami.

Just hours prior to the crash, Joshua had posted a video on Instagram showing him engaged in a friendly game of table tennis with Ayodele, which has evoked emotional responses from fans globally.

Promoter Eddie Hearn took to social media to honor the duo's contributions, recognizing their loyalty and positive spirit, while extending prayers for their families and for Joshua during this challenging time.

Born in Watford, Joshua has deep familial connections to Sagamu, where he was heading to visit relatives for New Year's celebrations.

Following his recent victory over Jake Paul on 19 December, Joshua had been spending time in Nigeria. Paul also expressed his sorrow, emphasizing that life holds greater importance than boxing and sending heartfelt prayers for all affected by this tragedy.