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Joshua leaves Nigeria following tragic accident
The former heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua has returned to the UK after a devastating car crash in Nigeria claimed the lives of two of his close associates.
Crash details and casualties
The incident occurred on Monday when the Lexus SUV Joshua was traveling in collided with a stationary truck on a major expressway near Lagos. The crash resulted in the deaths of Joshua's friends and team members, Sina Ghami and Latif "Latz" Ayodele. Their funerals are scheduled to take place at a London mosque this Sunday.
Joshua's condition and legal proceedings
Joshua, 36, sustained injuries in the crash and was hospitalized before being discharged on Wednesday. Meanwhile, the driver of the vehicle, Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, 46, appeared in Sagamu Magistrates' Court on Friday. He faces charges including causing death by dangerous driving, according to police sources cited by the BBC.
Kayode was granted bail set at 5 million naira (approximately £2,578) and remains in custody until his bail conditions are fulfilled. The case has been adjourned until January 20.
Joshua's connection to Nigeria
Born in Watford, Joshua has deep family ties to Sagamu, a town in Ogun state near the crash site. A family member told the BBC that Joshua was en route to visit relatives for New Year celebrations when the collision occurred. The boxer had been in Nigeria following his recent victory over American YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul on December 19.
Reactions and reflections
The tragedy marks a somber conclusion to Joshua's year, overshadowing his recent professional success. The boxing community and fans have expressed shock and condolences over the loss of Ghami and Ayodele.
"A sombre and sobering end to the year,"
BBC Sport commentary
