Anthony Joshua blames speeding offence on 'intense' training regime

Anthony Joshua has blamed a speeding conviction on his a tough training regime, saying his "intense" physical preparation might have led to a lapse in concentration. 

The 34-year-old was caught in his Range Rover Vogue by a Sussex Police officer doing 44mph in a 30mph zone on the A26 in Lewes, East Sussex, on May 29.

He said his "physical and mental fatigue" might have "clouded his judgement" and that he deeply regretted the error.

Joshua did not appear in court over the matter, as speeding convictions are often dealt with on paper as part of the single justice procedure.

However the boxer, who on Saturday lost a high-profile fight against Daniel Dubois, wrote to the court to give his "sincerest apologies".

He told magistrates he understood the importance of road safety and the potential consequences of driving too fast.

Writing in his defence, Joshua said: "I am a professional athlete, currently in the middle of a very intense training camp.

"My schedule has been extremely demanding, and I was travelling to or from a training session at the time and date of the offence.

"The physical and mental fatigue from my training may have clouded my judgement, leading to this lapse in concentration.

"I recognise that such circumstances do not justify speeding, and I deeply regret allowing myself to make this error."

He urged the court to consider the effect a driving ban could have on his career, telling magistrates: "As an athlete, I rely heavily on my ability to drive to and from training sessions, which are often at locations that are difficult to reach."

Joshua already had three points on his licence at the time of the offence. He was given four penalty points but was not banned from driving.

Hastings Magistrates' Court also fined him £769, as well as ordering him to pay £90 costs and a £308 victim surcharge.