Anthony Joshua’s driver faces serious criminal charges after a devastating car crash in Nigeria that killed two of the boxer’s closest friends. Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode was charged at the Sagamu Magistrates’ Court on January 2 with multiple counts including dangerous driving causing death. The incident has sent shockwaves through the boxing world as Joshua and his team mourn the tragic loss.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Driver Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, 46, charged with 4 counts including dangerous driving causing death on January 2, 2026
- Latif Ayodele (personal trainer) and Sina Ghami (strength coach) died in the crash on December 29, 2025
- Brief collision occurred on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway when the Lexus SUV hit a stationary truck
- Anthony Joshua, 36, sustained minor injuries and was discharged from hospital on December 31, 2025
The Fatal December 29 Crash on Lagos-Ibadan Expressway
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On Monday, December 29, 2025, tragedy struck when the Lexus SUV carrying Joshua collided with a parked truck on the busy highway connecting Lagos and Ogun state in southwestern Nigeria. The crash claimed the lives of two beloved team members immediately. Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele were both pronounced dead at the scene.
Preliminary investigations by Nigeria’s Federal Road Safety Corps revealed the vehicle was traveling at excessive speed and attempted an unsafe overtaking maneuver before impact. Joshua was pictured being helped from the wreckage by emergency responders, sustaining minor injuries but remaining conscious.
Charges Filed Against Driver Kayode on January 2
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Prosecutors brought four serious charges against Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode when he appeared before the Sagamu Magistrates’ Court on Friday afternoon. These include causing death by dangerous driving, reckless and negligent driving, driving without due care, and driving without a valid driver’s license.
The court granted bail in the amount of 5,000,000 Naira (approximately £2,578), with the case adjourned until January 20 for further proceedings. Kayode will remain remanded pending his bail conditions being satisfied.
| Charge | Details |
| Dangerous Driving Causing Death | Primary charge related to fatal accident |
| Reckless and Negligent Driving | Secondary charge for unsafe operation |
| Driving Without Due Care | Failed duty of care to passengers |
| Driving Without Valid License | Operating vehicle illegally at time of crash |
Joshua’s Emotional Response and Hospital Discharge
The 36-year-old British boxer was transported to hospital for immediate medical evaluation and observation. After three days of treatment, Joshua was discharged on Wednesday, December 31, demonstrating resilience despite the trauma. Officials from Ogun and Lagos states confirmed Joshua was “heavy hearted” over the deaths of the two men.
“Rest in peace Latz and Sina. Your energy and loyalty among so many other great qualities will be deeply missed. Praying for strength and guidance for all their family, friends and of course AJ during this very difficult time.”
— Eddie Hearn, Joshua’s Promoter
Who Were Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami?
Latif “Latz” Ayodele served as Joshua’s personal trainer and was described as a close friend and confidant. Sina Ghami worked as the champion’s strength and conditioning coach. Both men were integral to Joshua’s training camp and were with him regularly. Just hours before the fatal crash, Joshua had posted a video to Instagram showing himself playing table tennis with Ayodele, capturing the camaraderie between them.
After being discharged from hospital, Joshua visited the funeral home where their bodies were being prepared for repatriation to their families. Eddie Hearn, who has served as Joshua’s promoter for over a decade, paid emotional tribute to the fallen team members on Instagram, highlighting their dedication and positive influence.
What Happens Next for Anthony Joshua and the Investigation?
Joshua’s future boxing plans remain uncertain as he processes this tragedy. The former heavyweight champion had recently defeated American YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul on December 19 in Miami, a significant victory that had built momentum for the planned fight with Tyson Fury later in 2026. Paul expressed his condolences after the crash, posting that “life is much more important than boxing.”
The legal case against Kayode will proceed with the next hearing scheduled for January 20, 2026. Joshua, born in Watford, England, has family roots in Sagamu, Ogun state, and was visiting relatives for New Year celebrations at the time of the accident. President Bola Tinubu expressed condolences to Joshua and the victims’ families, calling the incident a “tragic accident.”
Michael Brown is a seasoned sports journalist bringing years of experience covering professional athletics and sporting culture. With a keen eye for breaking stories and player dynamics, this veteran journalist delivers in-depth analysis and exclusive insights from the world’s biggest sporting events. His passion for the game shines through in every story, keeping fans connected to the action both on and off the field.