Azania Omo-Agege, Interim President of the Nigeria Boxing Federation (NBF), has issued a strong warning to celebrity boxers Portable and Speed Darlington as they prepare for their highly anticipated match on April 18.
Omo-Agege underscored the critical importance of safety as both fighters get ready to step into the ring.
While acknowledging Portable’s role in bringing attention to boxing through his celebrity status, Omo-Agege emphasized that proper preparation is essential.
“I commend Portable for using his platform to promote the sport, particularly after his first fight against Charles Okocha,” Omo-Agege said. “However, he must understand that boxing is a serious sport, not street fighting. Given the current state of boxing, safety measures must be prioritized.”
Omo-Agege also expressed concerns about the fighters’ brief preparation period for the upcoming bout, titled “Chaos in the Ring: Battle for Glory,” which will take place at the Balmoral Convention Center in Lagos.
“Two weeks of preparation is not enough, especially considering the fighters’ fitness levels and health. These are entertainers, and it’s not uncommon for them to engage in habits, like alcohol consumption, that may hinder their readiness for such an intense contest,” he explained.
The NBF president emphasized the need for protective gear, such as headgear and mouthguards, to ensure the fighters’ safety.
He pointed to the tragic death of former Nigerian boxer Olanrewaju Segun “Success,” who passed away from a cardiac arrest during a match in Ghana.
“I urge the promoters to ensure both fighters wear headgear this time, unlike in Portable’s previous match against Okocha. Their safety must come first,” Omo-Agege stressed.
Portable, known for his street-pop music, has been training in an open-air ring in preparation for the fight. He previously defeated Nollywood actor Charles Okocha in a celebrity boxing match in December 2023 but declined Okocha’s offer for a rematch.
Tensions between Portable and Speed Darlington escalated when Darlington reportedly offered Portable ₦500,000 to perform at his event, an offer Portable found offensive.
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