Port Harcourt, the capital of Rivers State, is gearing up to host a significant boxing event on December 7, marking the much-anticipated debut of Zeus Sports and Entertainment. This event, dubbed ‘Simplified Rumble in Rivers for Champions,’ will take place at the Alfred Diete Spiff Sports Complex and is set to feature a World Boxing Federation (WBF) title fight as the main highlight. The event has received considerable backing from various stakeholders within the state, demonstrating strong local interest and support for the sport of boxing.
The boxing card will showcase an impressive lineup of 10 bouts, featuring both local and international boxers, with notable undercard matches involving fighters from Rivers State. The atmosphere is expected to be electric, drawing significant attention from the community as well as boxing fans from afar. Alongside the talent in the ring, several celebrities are expected to attend the event, including renowned figures such as former Nigerian international footballers Finidi George and Jay Jay Okocha, as well as popular musicians Flavour and Burna Boy, enhancing the event’s appeal and bringing together a diverse audience.
Supporting the initiative, Emmanuel Emenogu, the CEO of Zeus Sports, has been energetic in promoting the event throughout the state. His outreach efforts recently included a visit to King Ateke Tom, the Amanyanagbo of Okochiri kingdom, and a well-known boxing enthusiast. King Tom enthusiastically endorsed the event, accepting the role of patron after signing a promotional boxing glove, expressing that he has a deep passion for boxing and would have participated had he been younger. His commitment adds a sense of prestige and traditional support to the event, reinforcing its significance within the community.
Former Nigeria international footballer Peterside Idah also publicly endorsed the boxing event, highlighting its potential impact on the local society. He emphasized that events like these could provide a refreshing change to the perception of Rivers State, which often gets overshadowed by political discussions and conflicts. He expressed optimism that the event could replicate the success and societal calm that followed a recent international marathon held in Port Harcourt, illustrating how sports can bring positivity and unity to the community.
The main event promises to be a thrilling affair as former WBF Intercontinental featherweight champion Taiwo Agbaje takes to the ring to challenge for the WBF featherweight World title. Additionally, fans will witness a notable female matchup as Nigeria’s Elizabeth Oshoba faces off against Egypt’s Hargar Mohammed, adding to the event’s excitement. One of the night’s standout attractions will be the return of Ike “The President” Ibeabuchi, who is set to make his comeback against Sammy Abdalla of Egypt after years away from the sport, captivating boxing enthusiasts with his long-awaited return.
Further complementing the action are several high-profile bouts, including a clash featuring former WBO International light middleweight champion King Davidson against Egypt’s Ayman Mohammed, as well as a contest with former National and West African Light Heavyweight champion Jude “Great Jude” Iloh confronting Angola’s Lando Henriques. Overall, the ‘Simplified Rumble in Rivers for Champions’ seeks not only to entertain but also to enhance the profile of boxing in the region and unite the community through shared excitement for the sport, reflecting an important cultural moment for Port Harcourt and Rivers State as a whole.
