Driver Charged in Crash Involving Boxer Anthony Joshua
The driver responsible for the crash that injured boxer Anthony Joshua and claimed the lives of two of his friends has been charged with multiple offenses, according to police spokesperson Olusei Babasey. The incident took place on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, a route linking Ogun State and Lagos.
Charges against the driver include dangerous driving causing death, as well as reckless driving, careless driving, and operating a vehicle without a valid driver’s license.
Joshua, a three-time heavyweight champion, was released from the hospital on Wednesday after being treated for minor injuries. This crash has sparked discussions on the issue of road safety within Nigeria. Medical staff determined he was stable enough to continue recovery at home.
Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu extended his condolences to Joshua in a post on X, expressing sorrow over the loss of his friends, Kevin Latif Ayodele and Sheena Ghami. He mentioned, “I spoke with AJ and offered my personal condolences on the recent accident. I prayed with him for a full and speedy recovery.” Joshua reportedly assured the President that he was receiving excellent care.
The authorities have stated that Joshua was deemed “stable” following the accident, sustaining only minor injuries. Photos showed him reacting to the rescue efforts, showcasing some bruising.
Earlier, Ogun State Police indicated that the SUV carrying Joshua collided with a stationary truck during an overtaking maneuver while exceeding the speed limit. Preliminary findings suggested the vehicle lost control prior to the accident.
Joshua, who recently fought Jake Paul and achieved a knockout victory, received well-wishes from Paul, who reflected on the importance of life over sports. “Praying for the lives lost, AJ, and everyone affected by this unfortunate accident,” he said on X.
Interestingly, Joshua has British roots but also holds Nigerian heritage, having spent part of his early life in boarding school in Nigeria. He eventually moved back to the UK after his parents separated.
Joshua’s accolades include holding the WBA super heavyweight title, IBF heavyweight title, and WBO heavyweight title. However, he lost one of his titles to Oleksandr Usyk back in September 2021.
