Heated Face-Off Raises Stakes
The bout, scheduled for May 1 at Federal Palace Hotel, quickly grabbed attention after both entertainers exchanged sharp words and bold predictions about the outcome.
Eyewitnesses described the meeting as tense, with neither side backing down. Both fighters vowed to dominate, further fueling excitement among fans eager to see the rivalry settled in the ring.
Confidence Runs High on Both Sides
Portable, who has recorded wins in previous exhibition fights against Charles Okocha and Speed Darlington, made his intentions clear, expressing confidence in extending his streak.
Carter Efe, however, dismissed those victories and insisted the upcoming fight would be one-sided in his favour, hinting at a quick finish.
Event Backed by Boxing Authorities
Organisers confirmed that the event has been approved by the Nigeria Boxing Board of Control and is being staged by Balmoral Group in partnership with AK Promotions, owned by former world champion Amir Khan.
Main Event Carries Message of Unity
Beyond the celebrity bout, the fight card will feature a headline clash between Ezra Arenyeka and Godday Appah, tagged the WBO Peace Fight—an initiative aimed at promoting unity between the Itsekiri and Ijaw communities.
Both fighters expressed strong belief in their chances, with Appah predicting a knockout within six rounds, while Arenyeka promised to end the contest even earlier.
International Matchups Add Depth
The event will also showcase several international bouts, including British boxer Michael McKinson against Algeria’s Mohammad Sahnoun, Ghana’s Elvis Ahorgah versus Joe Laws from Newcastle, and Rasheed Adeyemo taking on Nicolaus Mdoe. Rising Nigerian prospect Raheem Animashaun is also set to face Tanzania’s Emmanuel Amos.
Global Spotlight on African Boxing
Balmoral Group CEO Ezekiel Adamu said the event is designed to elevate African boxing on the global stage, noting that it will be broadcast worldwide on DAZN.
He emphasized that such exposure could transform the careers of emerging fighters while showcasing the continent’s talent to an international audience.