UFC Fighter Shocks Fans by Competing With a Broken Ankle

Themba Gorimbo, a Zimbabwean UFC welterweight fighter, recently opened up about his challenging experience leading up to his last fight. This bout occurred approximately 11 months ago against Vicente Luque, which ended in a quick defeat for Gorimbo. He revealed that he fought despite suffering from a broken ankle, which he sustained just days before the match.

Broken Ankle and Fight Decision

Gorimbo broke his ankle on November 11 and decided to compete on November 17. Ignoring medical advice, he entered the fight without proper preparation. “I’m a hard head and rebellious sometimes,” he admitted. This decision significantly impacted his performance against Luque, a fighter Gorimbo acknowledged as formidable.

Regret and Reflection

After facing defeat, Gorimbo reflected on the emotional toll it took on him. He expressed deep regret for not following medical guidance, stating, “I cried at T-Mobile like no other because I was regretting the decision of taking the fight.” His lack of essential training routines, such as wrestling and sparring, further contributed to his unpreparedness.

Consequences of Ignoring Medical Advice

• Doctors warned Gorimbo about the severity of his injury.
• He chose to fight against their recommendations.
• The consequence was a significant loss and long-term emotional struggles.

Struggles After the Fight

The aftermath of this experience left Gorimbo dealing with depression and poor decision-making, which led to a trip to Russia. Shortly after, he encountered another setback when he broke a rib just before receiving a new UFC offer. This injury postponed his return to the octagon by five months.

Preparation for Comeback

Now, Gorimbo is gearing up for a comeback fight against Jeremiah Wells, a competitor he has long admired. Wells is an experienced UFC fighter, and Gorimbo respects his skills wholeheartedly. “If I do not acknowledge his capabilities, I risk underestimating him,” Gorimbo stated, praising his upcoming opponent.

Moving Forward

With his past challenges in mind, Gorimbo is optimistic about his return to the octagon. “By the grace of God, I’m here,” he concluded, ready to demonstrate his determination and resilience in the sport.