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By Oscar Okhifo
Controversial Nigerian singer, Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has recorded mixed fortunes after losing a celebrity boxing bout and, hours later, welcoming a baby boy with his partner, Omobewaji Ewatomi, also known as Bewaji.
Bewaji announced the birth on Friday via her Instagram page, where she thanked God for a safe delivery and the well-being of both mother and child.
The development comes shortly after a celebrity boxing clash at the Balmoral Hall, Federal Palace Hotel in Lagos on Friday night, in which Portable squared up against comedian and skit maker Carter Efe, but lost the bout.
Efe emerged winner of the contest, taking home the ₦50 million prize money put forward by businessman Emeka Okonkwo, popularly known as E-Money.
Speaking after the fight, Carter Efe said he would take time to rest before deciding whether to grant Portable a rematch or face a different opponent. Portable, however, set his sights higher despite the loss, declaring his ambition to fight British-Nigerian boxing champion Anthony Joshua.
Portable also disclosed that his partner went into labour while he was in the middle of the bout, saying, “My wife was in labour while I was fighting.”
The revelation has since sparked widespread reactions on social media.
Although he suffered defeat in the ring, the “Zazoo Zeh” crooner ended the day on a high note, celebrating the birth of his son, a personal milestone that fans have described as a bright spot amid the night’s drama.
It was an epic night of fun and entertainment as impresarios including Emeka Okonkwo, Kingsley Okonkwo, D’banj and Timaya were among those who gathered around the boxing ring.
The event further highlighted the growing popularity of celebrity boxing in Nigeria, with organisers and attendees noting that the entertainment sport is fast becoming a major attraction.
Industry watchers say the trend is expected to continue expanding, with larger audiences and higher-profile matchups in the future.