Follow Us on Google
Ezekiel Adamu, CEO of Balmoral Group Promotions, announced that the African WBO cruiserweight title fight between Ezra Arenyeka and Godday Appah is a symbolic Peace Fight representing the Niger-Delta rivals Ijaw and Itsekiri.
The fight headlines the Chaos in the Ring 4 billed for Balmoral Hall, Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos on May 1.
The event was announced at a Lagos world press conference hosted by promoters Balmoral Group Promotions and Amir Khan Promotions, with full support from the Nigeria Boxing Board of Control.
Adamu explained that the fight aims to transform long-standing community tensions into a sporting competition instead of street violence.
“We no longer want to fight with guns or weapons. We prefer to settle scores in the ring,” he stated.
He also mentioned that the winner of the Arenyeka-Appah fight would be appointed a Peace Ambassador for the Niger Delta, emphasizing the event’s message of unity.
Regarding the broader vision, Adamu said the event is designed to boost the sport’s popularity and give back to the community.
“We combine entertainment with professional boxing to increase interest in the sport. The event will include both celebrity and professional fights, and each event should contribute positively to the community,” he noted.
He highlighted the Ring of Hope Foundation as evidence of their commitment. “After a previous event, we awarded scholarships to 20 students through the Foundation,” he added.
Nigeria Boxing Board of Control President Dr. Rafiu Ladipo, present at the conference with Secretary Remi Aboderin, praised Balmoral Promotions for elevating Nigerian professional boxing standards and assured that safety protocols would be strictly followed during all bouts, including the celebrity fight between Portable and Carter Efe.
“Although the Portable and Carter Efe fight is a celebrity match, the same safety standards apply. All fighters must undergo medical tests, including blood pressure checks and physical assessments, before entering the ring.”
Ladipo stated.
He clarified that the celebrity fight would not have professional status.
