…Agbaje vows to punish South Africa’s Sonjika over homophobic attack

The celebrity boxing rematch between Nigerian entertainer Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, and actor Charles Okocha will headline the fourth edition of Chaos in the Ring, scheduled for July 31 in Lagos.

The pair first squared off earlier this year, with Portable emerging victorious. However, Okocha is confident of turning the tables in the rematch.

“Portable won’t last more than two rounds in the ring,” Okocha declared on Tuesday during the official press conference held at the Balmoral Convention Centre, Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja.

The event will take place at Balmoral Hall, Federal Palace Hotel, Lagos.
Tension flared at the press conference as Portable and Okocha exchanged heated words while facing off on stage ahead of the highly anticipated bout.

Another celebrity contest on the card will feature musician Mr Real (Okafor Victor) against rapper Idowest (Adekunle Idowu). Like the headline fighters, both men traded verbal jabs during the event.
The main professional bout of the night will see Nigerian boxer Taiwo Esepo Agbaje take on South Africa’s Ayabonga Sonjika.

Agbaje vowed to defeat the South African, saying the fight would be an opportunity to show solidarity with Nigerians and other Africans who have been victims of xenophobic attacks in South Africa.

Other bouts scheduled include Godday Appah against Lekan “The Engine” Muibi, while Rilwan Lawal will face Yusuf Adeniji.

Speaking at the press conference, the promoter of Chaos in the Ring, Dr. Ezekiel Adamu, said the platform was created to develop and retain world-class boxing talent in Africa.

“Nigeria has consistently produced world champions, but we have rarely been able to claim ownership of those champions. What we are building is a platform where Nigerian and African fighters can achieve global recognition without leaving the continent.

“Our goal is to provide the visibility these athletes deserve right here in Nigeria so young boxers can pursue successful careers from home instead of relocating abroad.”

Adamu cited internationally acclaimed fighters such as Anthony Joshua, Deontay Wilder and Fabio Wardley as examples of boxers with Nigerian heritage who built their careers outside the country.
On the challenges of organising the event, he said he viewed obstacles as opportunities for growth.

“I don’t see challenges; I see opportunities. Every edition is about building momentum rather than chasing perfection.”

He promised fans an exciting spectacle.
“This edition will deliver even more fireworks because we have two celebrity fights on the card. Nigerians should expect plenty of action and plenty of chaos.”

Adamu also revealed that the next edition of Chaos in the Ring is scheduled for October.He said the event has significantly improved the earnings of local boxers, noting that while fighters previously earned as little as ₦50,000 per bout, some now receive purses running into millions of naira.

Although he acknowledged the absence of government support, Adamu expressed optimism that official backing would come as the competition continues to grow.

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“The tourism opportunities and job creation we are generating are enormous. Young fighters are getting opportunities they never had before. We believe government support will eventually come, but we won’t wait for it. We’ll continue building the platform and growing the sport,” he said.