Azania Omo-Agege, the interim president of the Nigeria Boxing Federation (NBF), has called on celebrity boxers Portable and Speed Darlington to focus on safety as they prepare for their eagerly awaited boxing match on April 18. Omo-Agege acknowledged Portable’s significant role in promoting the sport but urged both fighters to take proper precautions and ensure they are adequately prepared.
Portable’s Contribution to Boxing
Omo-Agege praised Portable, known for his hit song “Zazuu,” for using his celebrity status to bring attention to the sport of boxing. The NBF president expressed his admiration for how the musician has supported boxing, especially following his high-profile match against Nollywood actor Charles Okocha.
“I want to thank Portable for raising awareness about boxing using his platform. I’ve been impressed by the way he promotes the sport, especially after his fight with Charles Okocha,” Omo-Agege shared. However, the NBF chief emphasized that boxing requires far more preparation and care than street fighting, urging caution for all involved.
Concerns Over Preparation Time and Health
With the upcoming boxing event dubbed “Chaos in the Ring: Battle for Glory” set to take place at the Balmoral Convention Center in Lagos, Omo-Agege expressed concerns over the short preparation period of just two weeks. He cautioned that this timeframe might not be sufficient, particularly since the fighters’ current health and fitness levels are unknown.
“I believe two weeks of preparation is too short. We need to consider their health and fitness before the match,” Omo-Agege advised. “These are artists, and it’s possible they consume alcohol, which could affect their stamina and fitness levels for the fight.”
Emphasis on Safety Measures
The NBF president underscored the importance of proper safety precautions, especially in light of recent tragedies in the sport. He referenced the death of Nigerian boxer Olanrewaju Segun ‘Success’ from cardiac arrest during a match in Ghana as a stark reminder of the risks involved in boxing.
Omo-Agege further stressed the need for proper protective gear, including headgear and mouthguards, for both fighters. He highlighted that their previous match against Okocha lacked headgear, which he described as “completely wrong.”
“Portable and Speed Darlington must wear headgear this time. We were fortunate nothing happened during the Okocha match, but they must prioritize their safety. Headgear and mouthguards are essential to protect them from injury,” he warned.
Ongoing Rivalry Between Portable and Speed Darlington
The tension between Portable and Speed Darlington has been escalating, particularly after Darlington reportedly offered Portable ₦500,000 to perform at his event—a gesture that Portable found insulting. As both fighters prepare for the April 18 showdown, the stakes continue to rise, with Portable training in a makeshift open-air ring ahead of the match.
In December 2023, Portable defeated Charles Okocha in a similar celebrity boxing match, though he declined Okocha’s request for a rematch, further fueling the rivalry.
As the date draws near, all eyes will be on the fighters to see whether they can meet the challenges of both their personal conflict and the physical demands of the ring. The Nigeria Boxing Federation continues to advocate for their safety and well-being, urging promoters and the public to prioritize responsible practices as the sport gains increasing attention from new audiences.
