In December, Okoli signed with promotional organization Boxxer, despite Hearn's opinion that his contract with Matchroom was valid for one more fight. Hearn stated that he would not block Okoli's activities, while adding that he would protect his rights under the contract.
In March, Okoli returned to the ring, defeating David Light, and on Saturday he fought his second fight after starting cooperation with a new promoter, losing on points to Chris Billam-Smith. Boxer stated that he would not make public the terms of the agreement with Hearn, and also would not publicly refer to this case in the future.