Authorities in Nigeria report that the driver involved in a Monday car accident, which resulted in two fatalities and injuries to boxer Anthony Joshua, will face charges. Lagos police identified the driver as Adeni Mobaraji Kayode, who has been charged with reckless and dangerous driving causing death, operating without a valid license, inflicting bodily harm, and property damage due to negligence. He appeared in Sagami Magistrate Court on Friday.
The Federal Road Safety Corps’ initial investigation revealed that the SUV carrying Joshua was speeding, lost control, and collided with a stationary truck. Joshua and Kayode sustained minor injuries, while two members of Joshua’s team, Shina Gami and Latif Ayodele, tragically died. After receiving treatment at a local hospital, Joshua was released on Wednesday.
Joshua was visiting his parents’ hometown in Nigeria when the accident occurred. Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu conveyed his sympathies on Monday, stating, “I spoke to AJ and offered my personal condolences on the loss of two of his close aides, Kevin Latif Ayodele and Sheena Ghami, in the recent accident.” He added that he prayed for Joshua’s swift recovery and confirmed the boxer was receiving excellent care.
The former heavyweight champion had recently defeated Jake Paul on December 19. Paul also expressed his condolences on social media, emphasizing that “Life is more important than boxing,” and extended prayers for those affected by the accident.
Fan Take: This tragic incident is a sobering reminder of the risks athletes and their teams face outside the ring. For Fighting fans, it highlights the importance of safety and support for those behind the scenes, underscoring that the human element is always central to the sport’s ongoing legacy.
