YouTube star Oga Obinna has revealed that Nigerian singer Ruger was not paid for his performance at Vurugu 2, explaining that the appearance was part of a strategic move to grow the celebrity boxing and entertainment event beyond Kenya.
Speaking during an interview with Music group Matata posted on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, Obinna was asked about the cost of bringing Ruger to the event, with Richie noting that the money used could have paid for two or three Kenyan artistes.
“That money for Ruger could have paid for two or three artistes here in Kenya,” Richie said.
Obinna clarified that Ruger’s appearance was not based on a traditional performance fee but was instead a partnership arrangement.
“So I did not pay Ruger. It was a bargaining chip on the table,” Obinna said.
Obinna explained that after the success of the first Vurugu event, organisers wanted the second edition to be bigger and better.
The team expanded the boxing lineup, increased the number of fighters from 16 to 28, changed the venue and looked for ways to create a larger entertainment experience.
He said the team considered several Kenyan artistes, including Khaligraph Jones, Wakadinali and P-Unit, alongside DJs such as Mo Spice, Kim D and Double Trouble, before exploring the possibility of bringing an international act.
According to Obinna, the idea of bringing an international performer was meant to give Vurugu a wider appeal and create excitement beyond the local audience.
Burna Boy and Cassper Nyovest considered
Obinna revealed that several international names were discussed during the planning stage, including Nigerian superstar Burna Boy and South African rapper Cassper Nyovest.
He explained that the team was looking for an artist who could bring a different level of attention to the event and help expand its reach across Africa.
“We started flaunting ideas. What do we do differently? Then we go, let’s bring an outsider,” Obinna said, explaining how the discussion eventually led to considering international performers.
He added that Cassper Nyovest was also an interesting option because of his involvement in boxing, making him a natural fit for an event combining music and combat sports.
Ruger’s international appeal
Obinna said bringing Ruger to perform in a boxing ring created curiosity because it was a unique setting for the Nigerian artiste.
“Ruger’s never performed in a ring. Why is he in a ring? What is this?” he said, adding that the move helped generate interest from audiences outside Kenya.
He noted that Vurugu’s growing recognition has attracted attention from other African countries, including Nigeria and South Africa, with more international collaborations possible in future editions.