World heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua narrowly escaped death after a last-minute change of seats in his SUV, just moments before a fatal car crash that claimed the lives of two of his friends, a court hearing has revealed.
The tragic incident occurred shortly after the group arrived in Nigeria for a holiday, when the vehicle Joshua was travelling in was involved in a devastating crash that killed Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele. Joshua, 36, was seriously injured and hospitalised but survived.
According to revelations that emerged during proceedings at the Sagamu High Court, Joshua had initially been seated in the front of the SUV before swapping seats and moving to the back shortly before the crash. That decision is believed to have saved his life.
The driver of the vehicle, Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, 47, appeared before the court where he pleaded not guilty to multiple charges, including dangerous driving causing death. It was also disclosed in court that Kayode allegedly did not possess a valid driver’s licence at the time of the accident.
Kayode, who has reportedly worked as Joshua’s chauffeur for more than three years, told the court through his legal counsel that the crash was caused by brake failure. He denied all allegations of reckless or negligent driving.
The driver appeared in court wearing a black Muslim kaftan as the charges were read to him. Members of his family were present during the hearing. Bail was granted in the sum of ₦5 million, with the court noting that under Nigerian law, bail conditions do not necessarily require cash payment.
Speaking after the hearing, Kayode’s lawyer, Olalekan Abiodun, said the journey began in Lagos, and Joshua was initially seated in the front passenger seat.
“My client asked Anthony Joshua to change seats because he is a big man and was obstructing the driver’s view of the wing mirror,” Abiodun explained. “Joshua then moved to the back seat, while Latif, who was initially seated elsewhere, took the front seat.”
The driver now faces four charges, including dangerous driving causing death, reckless and negligent driving, driving without due care and attention, and driving without a valid licence. The case has been adjourned until 20 January for trial.
Outside the courtroom, emotions ran high. Kayode’s wife was reportedly too distressed to speak, while his 19-year-old son, Ifeoluwa Adeniyi, maintained his father’s innocence.
“Our family is deeply upset by what happened, and we are truly sorry for the loss of the two lives,” he said. “My dad is not a fast driver. He followed the speed limit, but the brakes failed. He said he pressed the pedal and nothing happened.”
The incident has sent shockwaves through the boxing world and beyond, with many describing Joshua’s survival as a chilling reminder of how narrowly tragedy can be avoided.
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