“I’ve cut off my family” — UFC star Gorimbo rejects Zimbabwean identity
UFC fighter Themba Gorimbo has triggered widespread debate after declaring that he has cut ties with his family and no longer identifies himself as Zimbabwean, despite making history as the country’s first UFC winner.
The mixed martial artist made the remarks during an interview shared online by CNN journalist Larry Madowo, where he spoke candidly about distancing himself from both his relatives and national identity in order to protect his personal freedom and career focus.
Why Gorimbo says family ties were holding him back
“I don’t talk to any of my family members anymore. None. I don’t,” Gorimbo said, adding when pressed, “Not one of them. No. I have cut all my family members off my phone. Nobody. I blocked.”
Despite the firm stance, he insisted the decision was not driven by resentment. “I love my family from far,” he said, explaining that continued contact would interfere with his ambitions.
Gorimbo also rejected being defined by nationality, stating, “I don’t belong to Zimbabwe. I belong to the universe. I belong to every single person that wants to take inspiration from me.”
His shocking views on nationality, support and ‘black tax’
He further disclosed unconventional burial wishes, saying, “If I die, I don’t want to be buried in my village, burn my body and throw my dust in Kruger National Park. That’s my wish.”
Addressing expectations placed on him as a national symbol, Gorimbo said he never received support from home. “Nobody in Zimbabwe supported me, including my own family. I had this dream by myself. I went after this by myself,” he said.
He cited cultural pressure, entitlement and what he described as “black tax” as major reasons for the breakdown of family relationships.
“Black tax is real in Africa. We cannot say no when people ask for money. We cannot say no to anything,” he said.
While noting he still has friends in Zimbabwe, Gorimbo maintained that personal relationships should not translate into ownership over his success, reiterating his desire to live freely and independently.
