Celebrity boxing rivals Habeeb Badmus—known as Portable—and Charles Okocha are set to settle their score on 31 July at Balmoral Hall, Federal Palace Hotel, Lagos, renewing a feud two years after their first meeting.
The rematch was officially confirmed at a press conference held at the Balmoral Convention Centre, Sheraton, Ikeja, where Balmoral Group Promotions CEO Ezekiel Adamu addressed the renewed rivalry and how the second fight came to be.
Quick facts
- Rematch: Portable vs Charles Okocha
- Date: 31 July
- Venue: Balmoral Hall, Federal Palace Hotel, Lagos
- Two years after their first bout
- Also on the card: Taiwo “Esehpo” Agbaje vs Ayabonga Sonjika; Mr Real vs Idowest; Godday Appah vs Lekan “The Engine” Muibi; Rilwan Lawal vs Yusuf Adeniji
- Broadcast/streaming: DAZN, plus availability at the venue and local television channels
Adamu explained that Okocha triggered the return fight by activating a rematch clause after he lost to Portable in their initial encounter. In that earlier bout, Portable came out on top when the contest was stopped in the fourth round.
The press conference showdown quickly turned heated, with both fighters trading sharp words and threats. Portable insisted he would repeat what he did the first time, while Okocha played down the previous meeting, calling it not a true contest and claiming he would finish Portable inside two rounds.
Adamu also outlined the complete fight card for the night. Taiwo “Esehpo” Agbaje will face South Africa’s Ayabonga Sonjika, while Mr Real is set to go up against Idowest. Portable’s rematch with Okocha remains the headline, and WBO Africa cruiserweight champion Godday Appah will defend his title against Lekan “The Engine” Muibi. Rilwan Lawal will also be in action against Yusuf Adeniji.
The CEO added that Sonjika was drafted in as Agbaje’s opponent after a Nigerian fighter and a Mexican opponent both pulled out. Agbaje responded by saying he is fully prepared and expects to win by stoppage within four rounds.
Outside the main event, the build-up brought its own drama. Street-pop artists Mr Real and Idowest traded threats during their face-off, while Appah and Muibi had to be separated by security after an altercation backstage.
Lawal, speaking on his matchup with Adeniji, said he respects his opponent but believes the time has come to end his career. Adeniji rejected the notion that age could be a disadvantage, insisting he is still ready to compete at the highest level.
Adamu concluded by confirming how fans can watch the event. The show will be available at the venue, streamed on DAZN, and also carried on local television channels.
