Anthony Joshua narrowly escaped tragedy by switching seats just before a fatal accident that claimed the lives of two of his friends. The incident occurred on Monday, resulting in Joshua sustaining minor injuries and being hospitalized. The driver of the car has been charged with causing death by dangerous driving, with his lawyer stating that the brakes allegedly failed.
According to the lawyer, Joshua initially occupied the front seat but was asked to move to the back due to visibility issues with the wing mirror. The driver, identified as Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, has been charged with multiple offenses including reckless driving and driving without a valid license.
Joshua, a renowned boxer, was vacationing in Nigeria following a recent victory in Miami. His friends, who tragically lost their lives in the accident, were long-time associates and part of his training team. A statement from the Ogun State Police Command confirmed the charges against the driver and the court proceedings scheduled for January 20.
Prominent figures in the boxing world, including Eddie Hearn and former champions, expressed their condolences for the loss. Joshua was discharged from the hospital on New Year’s Eve and is yet to make a public statement regarding the incident. He was declared fit to recover at home, as per a joint statement from Ogun state officials.
Joshua and his mother paid their final respects to the deceased friends at a funeral home in Lagos before their repatriation. The boxing community has shown solidarity and support for Joshua during this difficult time.