The driver of a vehicle involved in a fatal collision in Nigeria, which claimed the lives of two close friends of British boxing star Anthony Joshua and left the former champion injured, now faces serious criminal charges.
Charges Laid Following Fatal Collision
Ogun State Police in Nigeria confirmed that 46-year-old Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode has been formally charged in connection with the devastating crash. The incident occurred on a major road near Lagos on Monday, when the car carrying Joshua and his friends struck a stationary truck.
Kayode faced the Sagamu Magistrate Court on four counts, including dangerous driving causing death and reckless and negligent driving. He was also charged with driving without due care and attention and operating a vehicle without a valid national driver's licence.
Following his release from hospital, Kayode was taken into police custody on Thursday. The court subsequently granted him bail set at 5 million naira (approximately A$5,200). A police spokesman stated the defendant was remanded pending the fulfilment of his bail conditions. The case has been adjourned until January 20.
Victims Were Joshua's Long-Term Confidants
The crash resulted in the tragic deaths of Sina Ghami and Latif 'Latz' Ayodele, both integral members of Anthony Joshua's inner circle. Ghami served as Joshua's strength and conditioning coach, while Ayodele worked as a trainer. Their loss has sent shockwaves through the boxing community.
Anthony Joshua sustained injuries in the collision but was deemed fit enough to be released from care on Wednesday. Lagos state commissioner for information, Gbenga Omotoso, confirmed the boxer was discharged to recuperate from home.
Joshua, who was born in Watford to Nigerian parents, was holidaying in Nigeria following his victory over Jake Paul in Miami on December 19.
Boxing World Mourns the Loss
The global boxing fraternity has united in grief, offering condolences to Joshua and the families of the deceased. Promoter Eddie Hearn, who has worked with the 36-year-old fighter since he turned professional, posted a heartfelt tribute. He praised Ghami and Ayodele for their "energy and loyalty" to Joshua.
A roster of boxing greats has also expressed their sympathies. This includes retired cruiserweight world champion Tony Bellew, two-time undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk, British former heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, and former world champion Wladimir Klitschko.
The incident serves as a tragic reminder of the dangers of reckless driving, cutting short the lives of two men deeply connected to one of sport's biggest names.
