Controversial street-hop singer Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has apologised to organisers and fans after abruptly quitting his celebrity boxing rematch against actor Charles Okocha following the first round on Friday night.

The highly anticipated contest, organised by Balmoral Group, ended in disappointment when Portable declined to continue after the opening round, leaving spectators at the venue frustrated.

In a statement issued on Saturday by his management, Zeh Nation/Dr Zeh, the singer expressed regret to the organisers, event crew, supporters and everyone who attended.

“We sincerely apologise to the organisers, Balmoral Group, the entire event team, our fans, friends, family, and everyone who came out to support Portable at tonight’s celebrity boxing event,” the statement said.

The management acknowledged the disappointment caused by Portable’s decision to step away after the first round but urged the public to respect his choice.

“We understand the disappointment caused by the outcome of the fight and by Portable’s decision to step away after the first round. While emotions can run high in moments like these, we respectfully ask everyone to respect his decision and perspective,” it added.

The statement also thanked Balmoral Group for staging the event and apologised for any inconvenience caused. It assured fans that lessons had been learnt, stating: “We have taken note of the feedback, and we are committed to learning from this experience. We promise to come back stronger and do better next time.”

Portable lost the rematch by disqualification after walking out of the ring. In separate comments, he claimed Okocha bit him on the back and choked his neck during the bout, alleging the actor resorted to wrestling rather than boxing. 

He said he had intended to end the fight in one round and declared he was “bigger than the money.”

The bout was a rematch of their earlier encounter, which Portable had won by unanimous decision. Okocha had activated a rematch clause seeking revenge.  

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