Themba Gorimbo: From Blood Diamond mines in Zimbabwe to the UFC to The Rock’s life changing gesture

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"I lost the fight, I didn't lose the journey." Themba Gorimbo UFC Fighter
As we wrap up 2024, we have a conversation with a young athlete who has defied the odds in every aspect of life, endured unimaginable challenges and is now sharing his extraordinary journey with Ryan, Channing and Fred on this episode of The Pivot Podcast.
Themba Gorimbo, is coming off a devastating loss in UFC 310 to Vincente Luque and shares how the past couple weeks he hasn't wanted to wake up and details the moments he remembers after his 52 second defeat in Las Vegas at T Mobile Arena, how his country turned on him and how the negative words and reception from fans across the world has crippled him mentally and emotionally. But despite the pain he feels, Themba is reminded of how lucky he is to be alive today after a life of danger, trauma and instability.
Born and raised in Zimbabwe, Themba's path to the UFC was anything but conventional. Hearing his story, the guys react as if it's a movie playing out as Themba details his childhood of dealing blood diamonds, being held hostage, running for his life, his family dying in front of him and escaping the unthinkable to make it to the land of opportunity. And then like any Hollywood film, a hero comes along to save him except this isn't Hollywood, this is Themba's true reality.
Themba tells Ryan, Channing and Fred how his will to survive led him to the octagon, seeking a career in Mixed Martial Arts as he shares how on the morning of his first real fight, he only had $7.49 to his name and posted about it to show how he was down and could come back up. His message caught more attention than he could hope for, when Dwayne The Rock Johnson saw it and stepped in to help change Themba's life forever...
The Rock may be Themba's real life saver but the true hero is Themba himself as his story is a powerful testament to resilience, determination, and the relentless pursuit of a dream. Coming off a heartbreaking loss brought on tears of embarrassment and hurt pride, but he is showing signs of strength again by opening up and trying to rise again. From humble beginnings to the pinnacle of professional fighting, his unwavering work ethic, sacrifices made along the way and the pivotal moments that shaped the man he is today, this conversation goes beyond the cage and into the heart of what it means to pivot when life throws the hardest punches.
Episode is streaming now and full video conversation on KZbin and don't forget to hit the subscribe button as we turn the page to a new year and new chapter ahead.
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[@melodymutudza7778]

Hey Themba, I’m your sister from Zim watching from the UK, please know that at this point God first, your nuclear family second..God brought you where you are and no one else..He is the one who will take you far..be wise to discern what you respond to and who to help, family etc.. remain kind and gracious..we are rooting for you my brother..God bless x

[@H-Town_83]

After seeing his cousins cheering for him to get knocked out, I was disgusted. They should support him. Thank god his work took him out of the diamond mines

[@theturkish180]

If god is real then he put him in that shit situation in the first place He got himself out He busted his ass It wasn't an imaginary man it was a human being working for it the opportunity didn't just appear

[@pharohdinero8029]

Amen 🙏🏽

[@pharohdinero8029]

@@theturkish180nope your absolutely wrong

[@thesickdirector]

I saw a reel on IG and immediately came to KZbin to watch the full podcast. Initially, I told myself I’d only watch for 15 minutes before going back to my Netflix show, but this man’s story hit me so deeply, I didn’t even realize when I ended up watching the entire episode of this podcast. His energy is incredible, truly an inspiration!

[@TheMMAHawk]

Same!

[@ncboy26]

Same! This interview was really good!

[@Flourish_today]

Same!

[@MsJody1980]

Me too 😂

[@ijayk]

I think this episode is one of my best episodes. He is so open and vulnerable with Ryan.

[@carpediem9015]

Damn, this one has me in tears! Belief in the quiet and through the noise is what will help get this man over this hurdle. To hear the guys, especially Freddy T break it down and b a big brother to him was beautiful. He needs more big brothers who need/want nothing from him but true friendship! His tears of hurt/frustration come from his passion for the sport & not wanting to let certain people down. Praying for him as God has greater things in store for him that he can’t yet see for himself. 🙏🏾👏🏾🫶🏾💐

[@lexinmotion1013]

I’m not even half way through the show and it’s so inspiring! We can lose the fight.. but not the journey. So inspired. Another hit guys! ❤️

[@deevelynoliphant1723]

One thing about the pivot when you watch these episodes it’s like sitting in a therapy session love this episode

[@unthinQTV]

Exactly

[@NovalordXO]

I cried several times watching this interview. This guy really had it bad. Am from Africa too and had so many hardships growing up. I would tell myself i really have it bad. I realize now that no matter how bad our situation is there is always someone in far worse position. We have to dig deep and keep pushing no matter what to get our lives to work out. This is manliest man i have seen. He has been so determined and consistently kind and humble. That is something i want keep with me and emulate for the rest of my life. Mr Themba Gorimbo you are truly an inspiration to all of us in Africa. We love you and we stand behind you. ❤ Much love from Zambia ❤❤❤

[@mcallisterkombora8233]

Thanks a lot for this show. I dont think the people back here in Zimbabwe appreciate this guy enough. Being where he is already is a big win. The platforms that he has gathered so far are impossible. He is a giant! I love this brother.

[@takemoremazuruse6177]

We are super proud of this hommie. Keep them coming Themba, the only way is up. Indeed life is not about the wins and losses, it’s about the journey.

[@nellymwalenyathi1632]

Please stop caring about what people who never do anything for you think about you. You are an inspiration to us Africans, pick yourself up and keep moving. You only lost a fight not your life. learn how to Disconnect from negativity so you can get to where God wants to take you. Great Podcast guys👍🏾

[@onismomhute7353]

Proud of you Themba keep shining. You are an inspiration to millions. Sky is the limit.

[@Quyetstorm2]

This Brutha’s entire existence is a testimony. His faith, hope, patience, work ethic, desire to catch his dreams. He dreamed when he should have had NO HOPE, but he Had Faith. AND He DID the WORK TO ACHIEVE HIS GOALS. He went through literally death; borders, dog attacks, treachery, betrayal and it’s your own that try to do you. Stay Ready, Keep dreaming some day opportunity will meet your dreams when you least expect it.

[@stance4life.98]

🇿🇼🇿🇦 love to this great brother . From Pretoria keep pushing “ survivors remorse “ is a real thing and I really hope he gets through it and becomes the greatest he can be and make Africa proud

[@andrewaguilar3399]

One of the BEST yet guys. Hands down top 5 Pivot podcast episodes. And Freddy T hittin the wisdom to hold us down.

[@siphokazimvoko3457]

Well done Themba. Some people don't want you to be successful not because you're incapable but because they know damn well that you can do it. They fear your greatness! Good Luck Champ and keep going. Siphokazi from South Africa.

[@osmanfaroug]

That’s why I love the pivot

[@RaiderRay916]

Thank you Themba for sharing your story and being open about your emotions. Truly inspirational, KEEP GOING THEMBA!

[@nofreehooks]

Never heard of bro till now! He’s a beast! New fan outta me. Takes a different man to make it out of what he did and choose to fight still…

[@101patrole]

Same!!!!!

[@Tiondo]

That's the journey we all go through in the African Savannah. Been fan of you & Cameron Saaiman since when both of you were in EFC. Themba, you are brave, focused and you will be big in America since you can fit anywhere. Your english and communication skills, perfect!👌 Eliud Kipchoge said, ~ No human is limited, why don't you join Hollywood under the blessings of UFC? Lupita Nyong'o said, ~ No matter where you are from, your dreams are valid. Go there and win Oscars! Shine in the land of a million opportunities brother. Continue inspiring the next generations. Much LOVE from Kenya! 🫶🫶💪

[@bzetu101]

When your family is the Opp!🚮 How dare they celebrate his loss. His grace should be emulated. Very inspiring💪🏾

[@ouisybaby]

This guy has battled a lot and you can tell he has a lot of battles in his mind. The Pivot really giving him some great knowledge.

[@matomem]

Themba just needs 1 hour with Coach Prime and his perspective on life will change forever

[@Jabril_Ali]

I love this episode and I'm glad you guys give him something to think about to pick his spirit up. Great job fellows .

[@mrkata4599]

🇿🇼 this interview is not only inspirational, and relatable as a Zimbabwean, it's therapy...

[@Tundrstorm]

Damn!!!!! Themba Gorimbo Bro that is some life... Pray God continue to bless you!!! This is why I love the Pivot -you guys didnt just interview him. Gave him and me some very much needed advice

[@deloiscampbell2704]

Lord keep your arms around him ❤🙏🏽🙏🏽

[@sheldontaitam4043]

Your story needs to be heard, man. I've watched all the pivot, and this by far it's my favorite, and I didn't know who you were before this

[@chazblair1989]

This man’s story is amazing. Live for your children, wife, and yourself big guy. Sky is the limit for this man. Determination is an understatement for this man

[@tommytylerjr7281]

I think themba picked up alotta new fans with this, i know he has one in me over here in michigan. Keep going my guy, the united states may be divided at timeS but dammit do love underdog stories as a whole regardless of political backgrounds for the most part. Sports r the ultimate equalizer and uniter of folks. Look forward to see where his journey goes!!!!

[@mandladludlu8359]

he did...

[@skalawitz]

He just got one here in the philippines..

[@pharohdinero8029]

Just got another in Florida!!

[@exthereon6916]

You can see the respect he has for all of the Pivot team. Ryan more so because of his relationship with Dwayne, and his own relationship with him. But he really opens up here. He is inspirational. A man who isn’t ashamed to show emotion and weakness, knowing that’s where we ultimately grow and get our real strength from. A great interview. Watched every minute. 👍

[@DjStormZim]

🇿🇼 keep flying our flag high brother.. Extremely proud of you

[@heralddurosier458]

I’m watching from Haiti🇭🇹, amd it’s a blessing learning your story bro. Thank you brothers from tTye Pivot Pod, you are also my inspiration. Respect🙌🏾👊🏾

[@kris.jo2]

Best Life story I've heard since Francis Nganou!! Straight Inspiration!! Loved Themba since Adesanya first brought him up a few years back. ❤❤❤

[@ribhkahperkins8111]

This interview had me in tears. I wish positive vibes and a healed heart for this man.

[@ejobroham]

I never feel like I have wasted my time when I watch an episode on the Pivot. Keep up the great work guys!!!!

[@netsayilandiejingura204]

Themba your journey bro left me in tears, I admire your fighting spirit, you are the BEAST don't let anyone make you believe otherwise.Big fan WeZhira

[@vivianakoh6675]

Pivot RC you are excellent in the way you ask questions and make people open up. I appreciate how Channing makes people laugh and Freddie T give people their flowers and shows empathy. Pivot you all are special people and we need this especially during this season

[@tateb4175]

This just made me love Ryan Clark more man, thank you so much for inviting Themba Gorimbo. Much respect to the pivot guys. I’ve always been a fan of RC, you’re the reason why I watch Eish espn so much. # 1 fan from Zimbabwe 🇿🇼.

[@revendranaidoo4305]

I'll always be a fan of themba things ain't easy out here in African

[@pierrechapman]

Freddy T 🫵🏾👀👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾 Words of Wisdom 🙏🏾

[@KyleSherwoodOfficial]

Hell yeah. Rooting for you, Themba. Definitely gonna catch this next fight. That said, his story leaves me with a lot to think about. People living all over the continent in those conditions TODAY. We, the diaspora, have to do something. Going into the new year plotting on solutions 🙏

[@noskuater]

“I didn’t realize that fighting could be a sport”. That sentence tells the entire story of why this man is battling as many mental demons as he is cage opponents. I sincerely hope he can get the assistance he needs. Warriors need help too.

[@Bulu2898]

Themba God brought u this far he would NOT forsake U. Be strong my brother........................

[@mandladludlu8359]

This guy is a brilliant storyteller and his likeable God bless him....

[@nkosilomusaglennsibanda8619]

Stay Strong Themba. Rooting for you from Zimbabwe.

[@StacyHolden-xk8iv]

Lets hope Themba’s story helps athletes in NFL and NBA understand the human cost of those sparkly diamonds on their championship rings. We can do better than depending on exploitation of African resources and peoples.

[@patieswagg]

One of the best episodes I’ve watched. Fully inspired and super proud of this guy. From Where he is coming from to be where he is now is beyond imaginable. He is genuine and I really enjoyed the interview.

[@Okula-d1h]

Bro… you’re already a champion…. You are a winner at life… And … remember people aren’t your family because there are your relatives. That’s called D N A. Your family is the one you choose and support you.. Now pick your head up and go win the next fight. One fight at a time and you’ll be “ Champion “..💪🏾💪🏾💪🏾♥️

[@valcavalentine]

thank u for this. i luv u guys so much for the incredible ministry not only to guests but to viewers as well. continue to rise, abundantly! ❤

[@sanderiafayesmith4102]

This is a good man. I pray he finds joy❤

[@MrRastafari01]

Themba the Lion of Bikita., Zimbabwe 🇿🇼, inspiring journey. It’s people like you that keep Zimbabwe 🇿🇼 flying high.

[@JustinJmoney]

Themba, we're with you win or lose. I've been watching ufc heavy last couple year's. That loss doesn't mean anything. You made it out that slums. Sometimes family can be ur worst enemy and critic. Keep going! Wake up everyday!

[@Rardoo2]

Those negative comments you read want you to feel bad about yourself. Believe in yourself

[@Rodnyet]

Another great interview fellas and dope advice Freddy T gave Themba 👏🏾👏🏾

[@derricfriday723]

And the pivot wins again

[@busibamu4026]

When a prophet is celebrated in foreign land. All the best in your future endeavors Themba❤

[@ernestasiimwe4301]

Y’all have beautiful souls

[@liwenmutero8536]

Fellow Zimbabwean here! Keep your head up Champ the fact that you are inthe UFC makes you a WINNER to me 👊🏾

[@MagShell172]

you got yourself a new subscriber just for interviewing Themba. I'm also Zimbabwean and i know the struggles he is talking about. Africa is not poor but for you to make it you have to go through a lot. look at Themba who left a land full of diamonds only to be an illegal migrant and a gardener in SA, now he's sharing his story in platforms he never dreamt of. That's GOD

[@lil.raiden]

Themba is a Warrior His Story is unbelievable 🙏🏽

[@takudzwamaratera4399]

Lets Gooooo Themba🇿🇼🇿🇼🇿🇼🇿🇼

[@KingShadre]

He needed this counseling session, great ‘shrinks’, great story … This was a symbiotic interview … Well done hosts we need brothers to lift our heads when it’s down and to be stern with us when we don’t see things maturely … You are already a champ Themba 🥇

[@siphokazimvoko3457]

On a different topic. I look at the resources for mental health like sports psychologist or Therapist... I hope this man has access to such. In most African countries was and still goes undetected/untreated for years. Especially when it comes to men. So his cousins back home tapping into is absolutely heartbreaking.

[@TheMMAHawk]

I know it's easy to be upset with his cousins but he should only feel compassion from such reactions as they are probably still stuck in the diamond mines getting chased by dogs.

[@NaturallyBeautiuFUL]

What a humble man. I pray he find peace in being successful within himself and doesn’t need those people. He’s a true winner he just needs to see What they see in him.

[@bobbyredd4427]

He never worked in the diamond fields. He is lying that why he lost. He wants a feel good story he was never a shurigwi. The story doesn't add up any zimbabwean will tell you he is lying

[@jackschannel1941]

​@@bobbyredd4427Did you grow up with him?

[@bobbyredd4427]

@@jackschannel1941 read my comment again iwe mhata iwe!! Real Zimbabweans know he is lying about working on the diamond fields

[@Supra12-s9l]

Wow this is a gem. Thanks Pivot frm South Africa!

[@theboyfrommudzi]

To my brother Themba Gorimbo (Wezhira) keep on climbing the ladder. I love you and i will keep on keeping supporting you.

[@thesamuellionnetxpress]

This is the best session so far for me this month , so emotional and reassuring if you’re a dreamer❤😢

[@CasonnaGibson]

One more loss can be the straw the breaks the camel’s back after a lifetime of loss and struggle! I’m praying for God to strengthen him and surround him with men to encourage him

[@ernestasiimwe4301]

Easily my favorite podcast

[@johnnieb134]

Damn!! As life has shown us time & time again some family members don't want any body to succeed.

[@postedreality]

Glad I got a chance to hear them based story...wow heart warming fasho

[@osmanfaroug]

Dude is inspiring

[@EmmanuelA-r4z]

This episode was so good man

[@NikkiGraham-zx2hu]

Wow, such an emotional podcast . 😢 I truly hope he has continued success and doesn't let the mean spirit of the internet get him down. I hope people like you guys and the Rock stay in touch with him and check in on him. He seems like he definitely could you more support. Great show as always!

[@accidythemenacemusic]

Themba is really a true inspiration for me straight outta Zimbabwe ♥️u bro keep going

[@kylebulldog2115]

Great Pod Guys. Absolute LEGENDS !!!!!!!!!

[@thuli4454]

Awesome to see my fellow africans on the show

[@MaximusDesimusMeridius11]

Themba is such a genuine dude he deserves a chance to live his dream

[@platnum960]

This has got to be a top 5 episode....when the fellas started pouring into him, it's like I saw him turn into a child listening to them try to uplift and guide him to be the best version of himself

[@BigFno.8]

Temba, mwana wezhira, ndakakurira pa Bik-Min paya and so i feel a kinship with you. I am so proud of your journey and just seeing you on The Pivot had me screaming. I hope you take the time to sit and watch this episode back. The 3 guys there have walked a path very similar to yours and they had some incredible advice that I think in the moment, you may not have fully taken in. Wish you nothing but the best wezhira. I have no doubt you're destined for even greater things. God Bless you and your family bro.

[@isabelmunoz3956]

By far one of the best interviews of 2024! God bless him and all the blessing to come to him and his family

[@Mr_Discipline1911]

Fred T said it best. Welcome to America! Humans will be humans. When people show you who they are, believe them.

[@lil_bofo3103]

His story is inspiring and i feel the day this guy learns to ignore all the negative he will grow faster than anyone can type anything bad about him for him to care much success to him

[@Reggieamponsah24]

This man struck something in my heart I’m praying for his success

[@Mann330]

Soooooo freaking inspiring 👑

[@gracetham7926]

He needs therapy please he is a good man

[@horacecatley4653]

This is a awesome interview. One of the best!

[@dayunggxddblvzx5896]

Man I was really rooting for bro in his last fight man but at least he didn't tap.

[@AnnaMarieSossong]

I would hope that the three of you befriend this young man and help him become who he wants without all the guilt and unreasonable sense of obligation . Your experience would be helpful to him and, based on your podcast, all three of you are men who are well rounded and have the social circle to expand his life experience to people who can be trusted.

[@mamadferguson950]

Thank you, Themba, for sharing your life story with us. Phenomenal interview, Fellas! 🇿🇼

[@RapperHolik]

so happy for Themba man. Am just smiling throughout the video.

[@samsonkimani9525]

Bro, your an inspiration. I just live everyday with Gratitude whether wins or losses.

[@ORAX9-Q7]

Shout Out from South Africa Themba is so inspirational 🔥🔥🔥

[@epizzle322]

God bless this man. Thank you for having him and sharing his story. 🙏🏼

[@pharohdinero8029]

Once this man clears his mind he will be unbeatable .

[@darylgoldsmith283]

This episode and the "chop it up" from the hosts given the level of transparency by the guests has become one of my best views!

[@phenomenal7323]

God does it

[@nw7581]

sport therapist, for real. it will good.

[@TapiwaMunyanyi]

What a great episode, the journey continues.

[@Qoolio321]

Respect to every other interview on this platform, this may easily be my favorite interview………..

[@Imhim247]

Themba on this show? That's awesome! I'm glad to see this