By Tonye Apiri
Street-pop singer Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has given his account of why he exited the ring during his celebrity boxing rematch with Nollywood actor Charles Okocha.
In an Instagram video posted on Saturday, hours after the bout at the Balmoral Convention Centre, Federal Palace Hotel, Lagos, Portable alleged he was subjected to unfair tactics. He accused Okocha of wrestling instead of boxing and claimed he was bitten during the fight.
Pointing to injuries on his back, Portable said: “Man, he bit me. I landed a heavy hit on him. Normally, I beat him up. Man to man, one man is tougher than another. I dealt him a huge blow.”
The “Zazoo Zeh” star insisted he had been in control before the contest broke down, but explained he left the ring because his status outweighed the fight purse. “He bit me, number one. He choked my neck. That’s why I say I don’t fight again. I’m big! I’m bigger than the money! I’m a star!”
The fight, promoted as “Unfinished Business” after Okocha triggered a rematch clause following his 2023 loss, ended abruptly in the first round. Officials disqualified Portable and awarded victory to Okocha after he walked out.
Portable’s management later issued an apology, acknowledging the disappointment caused by his decision to quit. In a statement signed by Dr Zeh, the team expressed regret to organisers Balmoral Group, fans, and supporters, promising to “come back stronger and do better next time.”
The rematch had been billed as a grudge fight, with both entertainers exchanging insults online in the buildup. Portable had hoped to recover from a defeat to content creator Carter Efe earlier this year, while Okocha sought revenge.