Anthony Joshua narrowly escaped tragedy by changing seats just moments before a fatal car crash that claimed the lives of two of his companions. The incident occurred on Monday, resulting in minor injuries for Joshua, while his friends tragically lost their lives.
The driver of the car has been charged with causing death by dangerous driving, with his lawyer stating that it was an accident and claiming that the brakes failed. It was revealed that Joshua initially sat in the front seat but switched places with the driver due to visibility issues, as Joshua is a large individual. Another passenger also exchanged seats during the journey.
The driver, identified as Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, has been charged with multiple offenses including causing death by dangerous driving, reckless driving, negligence, and driving without a valid license. The case has been adjourned to January 20, as confirmed by the Ogun State Police Command.
In addition to being close friends of Joshua, the two individuals who lost their lives were instrumental in his training and conditioning. Joshua, a British-Nigerian boxer, was in Nigeria for a holiday following his recent victory over Jake Paul in Miami.
Various figures in the boxing world, including promoter Eddie Hearn and former champions like Tony Bellew and Tyson Fury, have expressed their condolences for the tragic loss. Joshua, who was discharged from the hospital on New Year’s Eve, has not publicly commented on the accident. He was deemed fit to recover at home by authorities in Lagos state.
A joint statement with Ogun state revealed that Joshua and his mother paid their respects at a funeral home in Lagos for their deceased friends, who were being prepared for repatriation. The boxing community has united in support for Joshua during this difficult time.
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