Portable apologises to fans, organisers after quitting Okocha rematch in first round

Nigerian singer Habeeb Okikiola, widely known as Portable, has issued an apology following his abrupt withdrawal from a celebrity boxing rematch against actor Charles Okocha. The highly anticipated bout, organized by Balmoral Group, concluded anticlimactically when Portable declined to continue after the opening round on Friday night, leaving spectators disappointed.

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We sincerely apologise to the organisers, Balmoral Group, the entire event team, our fans, friends, family, and everyone who came out to support Portable at tonight’s celebrity boxing event.

Portable's management, Zeh Nation/Dr Zeh, released a statement on Saturday expressing regret to the organizers, event crew, supporters, and attendees. While acknowledging the disappointment caused by the singer's decision to step away, the management urged respect for his choice. "We understand the disappointment caused by the outcome of the fight and by Portable’s decision to step away after the first round. While emotions can run high in moments like these, we respectfully ask everyone to respect his decision and perspective," the statement read.

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We understand the disappointment caused by the outcome of the fight and by Portable’s decision to step away after the first round. While emotions can run high in moments like these, we respectfully ask everyone to respect his decision and perspective.

The management accepted responsibility for the incident, assuring fans that lessons have been learned. "On behalf of Portable’s management, we take full responsibility for the disappointment this may have caused. We remain grateful for the unwavering love and support shown to him throughout this journey," they added. They also commended the organizers for staging the event despite the controversial ending, promising a stronger performance in future contests.

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On behalf of Portable’s management, we take full responsibility for the disappointment this may have caused. We remain grateful for the unwavering love and support shown to him throughout this journey.

Friday's rematch was initiated after Okocha exercised a rematch clause following his loss to Portable in their initial celebrity boxing match in December 2023. The encounter had been preceded by significant online exchanges between the two entertainers, who had vowed to settle their rivalry in the ring. Portable was also seeking to rebound from a previous celebrity boxing defeat to content creator Carter Efe earlier this year, while Okocha aimed for revenge.

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We appreciate Balmoral Group and everyone involved for putting together a great event, and we sincerely apologise for any inconvenience caused.