Organisers of the worldwide boxing championship, Rumble in Rivers, initially scheduled for December 7, 2024, stated the occasion has been postponed indefinitely on account of visa delays amongst different components.
Based on an announcement by the sponsors and promoters, Zeus Sports activities and Leisure Consultancy Restricted, the choice was necessitated by a number of challenges, together with visa delays for fighters and particular friends travelling to Nigeria from throughout the globe, accidents sustained by boxers slated for the primary occasions and undercards, and different logistical points.
The announcement, signed by the Chief Government Officer of Zeus Sports activities, Emmanuel Emenogu, was made accessible to PUNCH On-line in Port Harcourt on Thursday.
The assertion reads, “To our esteemed followers and viewers, we deeply respect your enthusiasm and readiness to make historical past with us within the beforehand scheduled maiden version of the World Title Battle in Rivers State.
“Your anticipation and keenness for this epic occasion proceed to drive us ahead. Due to this fact, we sincerely apologise for the shortage of communication in current days relating to the developments.
“This silence stemmed from our dedication and resolve to make sure the occasion would maintain, regardless of the immense challenges we confronted.
“Regrettably, we had made the tough determination of suspending the occasion on account of extremely difficult circumstances past our management. These embrace visa delays for among the fighters and particular friends travelling to Nigeria from varied elements of the world, sudden accidents to boxers scheduled for the primary occasions and undercards, in addition to different logistical challenges.”
The organisers, nonetheless, reiterated their dedication to beat the prevailing challenges, whereas expressing profound appreciation to the intending viewers for his or her assist and dedication to making sure that the corporate delivers on its mandate to make historical past.
“We maintain you, our supporters, within the highest regard and stay unwavering in our dedication to delivering on this challenge.
“To this finish, and to compensate for any disappointment, we’re happy to announce that we’ve got added two extra title belts to our lineup: The WBF Heavyweight African Title and the IBO Intercontinental Title.
“Consequently, there’ll now be three championship belts contested for as a substitute of 1 – a historic growth that displays our dedication to ship an excellent larger occasion.
“Whereas we proceed to work tirelessly to make sure this occurs, we are going to quickly announce a brand new date and venue because the world is hoping and searching ahead to Nigeria taking its rightful place in boxing historical past by internet hosting these world title fights”, the organisers added