Controversial Nigerian singer Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, and Nollywood actor Charles Okocha engaged in a heated verbal exchange during a live face-off interview on Wednesday as both men intensified their rivalry ahead of their celebrity boxing rematch.
The exchange occurred during a TVC programme titled Chaos in the Ring, where the two appeared alongside a moderator to discuss their scheduled July 31 bout.
During the interview, Portable repeatedly stated that he would defeat Okocha again, boasting about his preparations and previous victory over the actor.
“I’m the man… I go to prepare; I don’t prepare. I go to win again; I go to fight again. I go beat Charles Okocha,” Portable said.
The singer mentioned his relationship with British rapper Skepta and urged Nigerians to believe in him.
He also stated that he was already the winner before the fight and was prepared to defend himself in the rematch.
Then the Zazoo crooner, shirtless, stood up from his seat, throwing fake punches at the actor.
The Nollywood actor repeatedly told Portable to reserve his energy for fight night.
“So what are you talking about? Can you save that for the ring? Can you save that on the 31st? Don’t disrespect me! I’m not your mate. Don’t disrespect me!” Okocha said.
As both men shouted over each other, the programme’s presenter appealed to Portable to calm down while attempting to steer the discussion back to the fight.
“Portable… Portable, calm down. It’s understandable that this energy is on right here,” the presenter said as the argument continued.
The rematch followed Portable’s unanimous decision victory over Okocha in their first meeting, which occurred after the actor exercised the rematch clause.
Ahead of Friday’s match, both men have exchanged verbal threats while attending separate training camps.
Portable recently said that he intends to challenge fellow musician Terry G to another celebrity boxing battle after facing Okocha, stressing that he will continue his boxing career in addition to singing.
The musician claims he has already earned ₦50 million from a reported ₦150 million purse for the July 31 bout and is certain of another victory against the actor.
