Judicial Twist in Anthony Joshua Case: Driver Charged After Fatal Crash
Anthony Joshua’s case takes a judicial turn. The driver involved in the crash that killed two of his team members has been charged, with a court date set, while the boxer recovers in Nigeria.
The crash that shook Anthony Joshua’s team
The case surrounding Anthony Joshua has taken a key step in the judicial process. Nigerian authorities confirmed that the driver of the vehicle carrying the former heavyweight champion has been formally charged after the crash that killed two of his team members.
The accident occurred on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, one of southwestern Nigeria’s busiest highways. The SUV carrying Joshua, the driver, and two of his collaborators collided with a stationary truck, resulting in a tragic scene. Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami, both crucial trainers in the boxer’s physical preparation, died on the spot.
Joshua, 36 years old, sustained minor injuries and was taken to a hospital in Lagos, from which he has already been discharged after being deemed medically stable.
The driver formally charged and awaiting trial
The Ogun State Police confirmed that the driver, Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, 46, was charged with dangerous and reckless driving causing death, as well as driving without a valid license, gross negligence, and causing bodily harm and property damage.
According to official reports, Kayode remains in custody until he meets the conditions of a 5 million naira bail, approximately $3,500 USD. The court hearing is scheduled for January 20, when the case will formally proceed.
Preliminary findings suggest the vehicle was traveling at excessive speed, and that a tire burst shortly before the collision, a fatal combination on a high-traffic road.
Joshua out of danger but marked by tragedy
While the legal process moves forward, Anthony Joshua has been discharged from the hospital and is recovering in Nigeria, a country with which he has deep family ties. The boxer was born in Watford but has Nigerian roots, attended school there briefly, and holds Nigerian nationality.
Days before the accident, Joshua had knocked out Jake Paul in a highly publicized bout, after which he stayed in Nigeria for a holiday. Following the fight, he also publicly challenged Tyson Fury, a matchup that has yet to happen.
However, the tragedy changed everything. Joshua and his mother visited a funeral home in Lagos to pay their respects to Ayodele and Ghami, two figures who played a key role in his recent career.
A case reigniting the debate on road safety in Nigeria
Beyond the sporting and human impact, the crash has renewed discussions about road safety in Nigeria, particularly on major highways like Lagos-Ibadan. Authorities noted that speeding and mechanical issues are frequent contributors to fatal accidents.
For Joshua, the emotional blow is profound. While his career is not immediately at risk, the incident has deeply affected his environment. The legal process against his driver is underway, but the personal and professional impact will continue to unfold.
