Abuja: Nollywood actor Charles Okocha has intensified preparations for his celebrity boxing rematch with controversial singer Badmus Okikiola, aka Portable, as he embarks on training sessions alongside British heavyweight champion Daniel Dubois in London.
In a video shared by the actor on his verified social media page, he was seen undergoing drills in a boxing gym, underlining his determination to avenge his previous defeat.
In the footage, Okocha expressed confidence ahead of the fight.
“I’m out here training with the champ, Mr Dubois. Come 31st of July, it’s gonna be kill or be killed,” he said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the highly anticipated bout, tagged “Unfinished Business”, is scheduled to hold on July 31 in Lagos.
The rematch is coming after Portable secured a unanimous decision victory over Okocha in their first meeting, prompting the actor to invoke the rematch clause.
The training session has generated reactions from fans and celebrities on social media, with many praising the actor’s dedication while wishing him success ahead of the bout.
Instagram user, @authenticmuy, commented, Go Man ”.
Another user, @el_breezy619, wrote, “Naija boys are winning worldwide. Hope y’all know Dubois mom is Nigerian”.
Also reacting, actor @kinglemuel99 said, “Your straight punches are getting better, keep it up”.
Besides training with the British WBO holder, Okocha had earlier in the month shared clips of training sessions with Nigerian-born fast-rising heavyweight star Moses Itauma.
On his part, Portable, who recently lost a fierce boxing showdown to skit maker Carter Efe, has reportedly enlisted respected boxing coach Taiwo Agbaje to train him ahead of the rematch.
With both celebrities making serious investments in their preparations, their supporters are anticipating an entertaining showdown.
NAN reports that celebrity boxing events have become increasingly popular in recent years, bringing together entertainers, musicians and social media personalities in exhibition contests that combine sports with entertainment.