Portable Backs Out of Match with Speed Darlington Says He’ll Fight Anthony Joshua for N100M

Nigerian street-hop star, Habeeb Okikiola, widely known as Portable, has announced that he will no longer participate in the upcoming celebrity boxing match against fellow singer Speed Darlington. Instead, he is now aiming for a much bigger opponent—former world boxing champion Anthony Joshua—on the condition that he’s paid N100 million.

In a new video shared on his Instagram page, Portable made it clear that Speed Darlington is no longer in his plans, describing him as unworthy of a fight. “I’m not fighting Speed Darlington again; I want Anthony Joshua with 100m,” the singer boldly stated in the clip.

Portable also accused Speed Darlington of using the buzz around their proposed match to promote his upcoming show scheduled for April. He claimed that Speed was riding on his popularity to gain attention.

Mocking his would-be opponent, Portable insisted he’s more popular and influential in the music industry. He added that Speed Darlington’s recent release from Kuje Prison—where he was held after allegedly defaming Afrobeat singer Burna Boy—has nothing to do with his decision.

Meanwhile, Speed Darlington had already begun training for the match, even going as far as buying a coffin in a viral video—a gesture many saw as a sarcastic warning to Portable. He was also seen sparring and training with a coach ahead of the bout.

The match was originally set for April 18, 2025, at the Balmoral Convention Center in Lagos, and had stirred excitement among fans. But with Portable pulling out, the event’s future now seems unclear.

This shocking twist has left fans surprised, and while the fight with Speed Darlington appears off the table, all eyes are now on whether Portable will get the massive payday he’s demanding to take on Anthony Joshua.