By The Respondent Reporter
Tanzanian professional boxer Salim Jengo, popularly known as Mtango, was forced to miss a highly anticipated international title fight in Belgium after failing to secure a travel visa on time.
Mtango was set to face Belgian-Armenian boxer Hovhannes Martirosyan in a 10-round bout for the IBO Intercontinental Super Lightweight title.
The fight, which was expected to boost Mtango’s international ranking, was scheduled to take place in Hasselt, Limburg.
However, last-minute visa complications prevented the Tanzanian fighter from traveling, leaving event organizers scrambling for a replacement.
His absence resulted in Martirosyan being paired with Colombian boxer Victor Enrique Julio Perez, who stepped in as a last-minute replacement.
Despite the disruption, Martirosyan and Perez successfully underwent weigh-ins and proceeded with a non-title 10-round fight in the Super Lightweight division.
The unexpected change disappointed fans who had anticipated a thrilling clash between Mtango and Martirosyan.
It remains unclear whether the bout will be rescheduled, but Mtango’s visa setback highlights the challenges some African athletes face in securing travel documents for international competitions.
