Anthony Joshua is back in London after a deadly crash in Nigeria claimed two of his closest team members. A funeral service will be held tomorrow at London Central Mosque to honour those lost.
Joshua Returns Home After Fatal Lagos Crash
The 36-year-old boxing icon touched down at London Stansted Airport on Friday evening. He escaped the Monday collision near Lagos with minor injuries and is now recovering at home.
Funeral Set for Trainer and Strength Coach Killed in Crash
The janaza prayer will pay tribute to Latif “Latz” Ayodele, Joshua’s personal trainer, and Sina Ghami, his strength coach—both killed instantly in the smash. Family and close associates are expected to attend, though Joshua’s attendance remains uncertain to keep the ceremony respectful and undisturbed.
Seat Swap Possibly Saved Joshua’s Life in Horror Crash
- Joshua was originally in the front passenger seat but shifted to the rear after their driver complained that Joshua’s large frame blocked the side mirror.
- Latif Ayodele took Joshua’s front seat shortly before the crash.
- The Land Rover rammed into a stationary lorry on Nigeria’s deadliest road near Sagamu.
- Ayodele and Ghami died on impact. Joshua was briefly hospitalised but later released.
Driver Pleads Not Guilty, Blames Brake Failure for Crash
The driver, Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, 47, who has driven for Joshua for over three years, faced Sagamu High Court on Friday. He denied four charges, including causing death by dangerous driving and driving without a valid licence.
“What happened was an accident… he is saying the brakes did not work,” said Kayode’s lawyer.
Driver’s son, 19-year-old Ifeoluwa Adeniyi, defended his dad: “Dad is not a fast driver… the brakes failed. He was pushing the pedal but nothing was happening.”
“If the truck wasn’t parked illegally, this wouldn’t have happened,” he added.
Kayode was granted bail set at ₦5 million (£2,580). His trial is scheduled for January 20, with vehicle inspections and witness statements expected to be pivotal.
Tragedy Strikes During Joshua’s Somber Visit to Nigeria
What was meant to be a heartfelt trip to reconnect with his father’s homeland turned into a nightmare for Anthony Joshua. Two trusted team members were lost in a devastating collision. Rumours swirl that Joshua’s last-minute seat swap may have saved him from a much worse fate, even though the victims sat in positions usually regarded as safer in front-end crashes.
As the story develops, the spotlight remains firmly on the upcoming trial and the claims of brake failure and illegal parking that could decide the case.
