World Boxing Champ Oubaali Pleads for Visa Help, Risks Missing Title Defense

It was ultimately through a message posted on Saturday evening via Twitter that the Franco-Moroccan boxer, WBC Bantamweight World Champion, expressed his difficulties in obtaining his visa and his growing concern about not being able to defend on May 29, in the suburbs of Los Angeles, his belt against his number 1 challenger, the Filipino, Nonito Donaire.

Affected by this uncertain situation that could call into question his next fight, the international athlete appeals to the President of the Republic, Emmanuel Macron.

This former Olympic boxer had already canceled a fight in November last year that was to pit him against the same opponent Donnaire (38) and former WBA featherweight champion, because Oubaali had tested positive for Covid-19. The opportunity was then given to Donnaire to take the belt against Emmanuel Rodriguez, but unexpectedly, the Filipino also contracted the coronavirus. Oubaali then retained the belt at the match rescheduled for May 29.

In his record, Oubaali, aged 34, remains undefeated as a professional with 17 wins, including 12 by knockout. As for his challenger Donnaire (38), he has 40 wins, including 26 before the limit, for 6 losses.