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January 24, 2026 – Zimbabwean mixed martial artist Themba Gorimbo has made headlines for both his historic UFC victory and his controversial statements about his country and family. Gorimbo, the first Zimbabwean to win a fight in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), revealed that he received no support during the toughest years of his career.
Struggle and Isolation
In an emotional account, Gorimbo said he trained under harsh conditions with little to no financial or emotional backing. He claimed that neither Zimbabwe nor his family supported him during his journey to the global stage.
“Nobody in Zimbabwe supported me, not even my family,” Gorimbo stated. He added that those closest to him only appeared after his international recognition and success.
“I had nothing. I was fighting to survive. The support only came after the headlines,” he said.
Cutting Ties with Family and Country
The fighter confirmed that he has cut ties with his entire family and no longer wishes to be associated with Zimbabwe. Gorimbo insisted that his decision is not about turning his back on his roots but about self-preservation.
“This is not about refusing to give back. It’s about survival. I had to build myself with no help from home,” he explained.
A Broader Issue for African Talent
Gorimbo’s experience highlights a common challenge faced by young African athletes and creatives, who often go unnoticed until they achieve success abroad. Analysts say this lack of early support can contribute to the loss of talent, as many promising individuals abandon their dreams before reaching global platforms.
His story raises uncomfortable questions about family expectations, the pressures of so-called “black tax,” and the absence of structured support for aspiring athletes in Zimbabwe and across Africa.
Inspiration Amid Adversity
Despite the personal and social challenges, Gorimbo’s UFC victory stands as a milestone for Zimbabwean sports. His rise, fueled by grit and support from outsiders, serves as both an inspiration and a cautionary tale: without early investment and encouragement, nations risk losing their brightest talent both physically and emotionally.
