Zimbabwean UFC welterweight Themba Gorimbo has made a startling revelation: he fought his last bout, which took place 11 months ago, with a broken ankle. Gorimbo's fight against Vicente Luque ended in a quick defeat, a result he now attributes to his compromised physical condition.
Gorimbo revealed that he sustained the injury just days before the fight. "I broke my ankle a week before I took that fight," he explained. "I broke my ankle on Nov. 11. I took that fight on Nov. 17. I went against the doctors. I’m a hard head and rebellious sometimes."
He admits his stubbornness contributed to his loss. While acknowledging Luque's skills, Gorimbo stated he wasn't adequately prepared due to the injury.
After the defeat, Gorimbo reflected on his emotional state. "On the day of the fight after I lost, I cried at T-Mobile like no other because I was regretting the decision of taking the fight. When I stepped in the cage with Luque, I knew I was not ready." He regretted missing essential training, including wrestling and sparring.
Doctors warned Gorimbo about the severity of his injury. "They told me, ‘This is bad. You cannot fight with it, but it’s up to you. You are the fighter… but our recommendation is don’t fight,'" he recalled. He ignored their advice and faced the consequences, acknowledging he learned a tough lesson.
Following the defeat, Gorimbo struggled with depression and made poor decisions, including a trip to Russia. Unfortunately, he suffered another broken rib, adding to his woes. He is now focused on recovery and returning to the octagon stronger than ever.
What's Next for Themba Gorimbo?
Gorimbo is determined to learn from his mistakes. He is currently undergoing rehabilitation and plans to resume training when fully recovered. He aims to prove that he can compete at the highest level of UFC, injury-free.
Key Takeaways:
- Themba Gorimbo fought Vicente Luque with a broken ankle.
- He regrets the decision to fight while injured.
- He is now focusing on recovery and a comeback.