Zimbabwean UFC fighter Themba Gorimbo has officially announced his retirement from mixed martial arts, bringing an emotional end to a 16-year fighting career that inspired fans across Africa and around the world.
The 35-year-old fighter shared a heartfelt statement revealing that he is walking away from MMA after realizing his dream of becoming a UFC champion would not be fulfilled as an athlete.
Themba Gorimbo Retires From MMA
In an emotional message to fans, Gorimbo thanked the UFC, his supporters, coaches, teammates, and family for standing by him throughout his journey in combat sports.
“I dared to be someone and something and failed,” Gorimbo wrote. “I gave all I can in the sport and I am walking away from the sport.”
The Zimbabwean star admitted that his ultimate goal was always to become a UFC champion. After reflecting on his recent performances, he decided it was time to close this chapter of his life.
“My dream was to be a UFC champion and if I cannot be that, I am going to walk away from the sport,” he explained.
Emotional Farewell To The UFC
Gorimbo revealed that after his most recent fight, he immediately felt that it could be the final time he stepped into the cage as a professional fighter.
The veteran fighter said he made a conscious effort to enjoy every moment during fight week because something inside him suggested the end was near.
“Honestly I feel some sort of relief,” he said. “Going into my last fight I made sure I lived life to the fullest during fight week because something said I should because it could be the last time.”
Three days after the fight, Gorimbo emailed UFC matchmaker Sean Shelby to thank him for giving him the opportunity to compete in the world’s biggest MMA promotion.
“Sean Shelby got me into the UFC and I am grateful that one of my dreams got fulfilled,” he said.
Themba Gorimbo Thanks Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson
Gorimbo also took time to thank Hollywood superstar Dwayne Johnson, popularly known as The Rock, for helping change his life.
The UFC fighter’s inspirational story previously captured global attention after Johnson surprised him with support that helped him pursue his American dream.
“To my man The Rock and team I thank you for everything,” Gorimbo wrote. “American dream wouldn’t have happened without you guys.”
Family Comes First
The retired MMA fighter says his main focus moving forward will now be his family, especially his daughters.
In one of the most touching parts of his statement, Gorimbo referred to his daughters as his “current bosses” and revealed that tennis will now become a major focus in their lives.
“Now let’s focus on tennis for my daughters,” he said.
Could Themba Gorimbo Return To MMA?
Although Gorimbo is retiring as an active athlete, he hinted that fans may still see him involved in combat sports in the future.
The former UFC fighter revealed he could eventually return as a coach or manager to help guide the next generation of fighters.
“I failed at that as an athlete myself but it’s not over,” he wrote. “I will be back as a Coach / Manager.”
Fans React To Gorimbo’s Retirement
Fans across social media reacted emotionally to the announcement, praising Gorimbo for his honesty, perseverance, and inspiring journey from Zimbabwe to the UFC stage.
Many supporters described him as proof that determination and faith can overcome impossible odds.
“FYI: I wasn’t even supposed to be here but I got here,” Gorimbo said. “God is by my side always. He is the author to my forever inspiring story.”
While his fighting career may be over, many fans believe Themba Gorimbo’s influence in African MMA is only beginning.
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