After 11 successful years of hosting the Mombasa Open Tong-Il Moo-Do Championships, Kenya risks a ban from the global martial arts governing body if the government fails to release funds for the competition’s 12th edition, set to begin this Friday at the Aga Khan Academy in Mombasa.

This comes after an earlier attempt to hold the event in August failed due to financial constraints. 

Speaking on Monday from Mombasa, Elvis Malipe, the assistant secretary-general of the Kenya Tong-Il Moo-Do Federation (KTMF), warned that the sport’s progress in Kenya and its global recognition are at stake due to the lack of government support. 

“It’s obvious that if we get banned—I don’t know for how long—this sport will slowly die. The upcoming youngsters won’t see the need to participate if there are no competitions,” a dejected Malipe stated.  

He added: “The global body has been kind enough to give Kenya a second chance after our failed attempt in August. We have over 300 guests from 35 countries expected. It will be a shame if we don’t at least honor that commitment, as we can solve our internal issues later.”

President of the Paraguayan Federation of Tong-Il Moo-Do and a 2022 World Cup gold medallist Carlos Nuñez, expressed hope for a last-minute resolution upon his arrival in Mombasa on Sunday.

He emphasised the importance of defending their titles achieved in 2023 to improve Paraguay’s world rankings. 

“We need to defend our titles so my country can improve its world rankings. Missing two international competitions in the same year jeopardizes my athletes’ morale and psychological readiness heading into the world championships,”stated Nuñez

Kenya’s rich history in Tong-Il Moo-Do now hangs in the balance.

Failure to host the event this week would mark the second botched championship this year, risking the careers of hundreds of athletes who rely on the sport.

Kenya’s unmatched record of 46 gold, 54 silver, and 93 bronze medals during last year’s 11th edition could go to waste if the event does not proceed.