UFC welterweight sensation Themba Gorimbo has been making waves in the mixed martial arts world, recently securing a first-round stoppage victory over Pete Rodriguez at UFC Fight Night 235. His triumph not only signifies a promising future in the UFC but has also garnered attention from none other than Hollywood A-lister Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson.
Last year, Johnson made headlines by gifting Gorimbo a house, recognizing the fighter’s journey from financial struggles to UFC success. However, in a surprising turn of events, Gorimbo has now revealed that he doesn’t want Dwayne Johnson in his corner during a fight. The reason behind this decision is as unexpected as it is genuine.
Despite being a massive fan of Johnson and appreciating the heartfelt message the actor sent him, Gorimbo fears that having “The Rock” in his corner would stir up overwhelming emotions. In an exclusive statement, Gorimbo expressed his concern, saying, “He is going to make me cry. When you want to fight, you want a clear mind. I love DJ, but in the corner? I am going to cry. I am an emotional human being. We’ll talk, we’ll see.”
Themba Gorimbo’s Emotional Dilemma: Why He Won’t Have Dwayne Johnson in His Corner
It’s a unique situation where gratitude and emotional attachment clash with the demands of a focused and strategic mindset required in the UFC octagon. Gorimbo acknowledges the close bond he shares with Johnson and leaves the door open for future collaborations but emphasizes the need for mental clarity during crucial moments in the cage.
The backstory of their friendship adds depth to Gorimbo’s decision. Johnson, understanding the fighter’s hardships, gifted him a house after learning that Gorimbo had been living on a gym couch during camps. The mutual admiration between them became evident when, following Gorimbo’s impressive 32-second knockout at UFC Vegas 85, Johnson connected over FaceTime to congratulate the fighter and his team.
Despite declining Johnson’s corner presence for now, Gorimbo’s decision reflects a deep respect for the emotional toll it might take. His honesty and vulnerability showcase the human side of a fighter, demonstrating that even with the support of a global icon, the mental game remains paramount in the unforgiving world of professional fighting.
As Gorimbo’s UFC journey continues, fans will be watching closely to see if the emotional fighter and his Hollywood ally can find a compromise that aligns with both their ambitions.
