In a stunning display of skill, Themba Gorimbo secured a rapid 32-second TKO victory over Pete Rodriguez at UFC Fight Night 235 in Las Vegas. The quick finish showcased Gorimbo’s prowess, but it was the presence of his close friend, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, that added a unique touch to the bout.
Gorimbo, with a record of 12-4 in MMA and 2-1 in the UFC, delivered a powerful right hand that sent Rodriguez to the canvas. A flurry of follow-up punches sealed the victory, marking Gorimbo’s second consecutive win and his third in his last four fights. Rodriguez, now at 1-2 in his recent three matches, faced a tough night in the octagon.
EASY WORK for @TheAnswerMMA 🤯
It took him just 3️⃣0️⃣ seconds to get the finish in this one! #UFCVegas85 pic.twitter.com/17Bc6kJsl6
— UFC (@ufc) February 3, 2024
“The Rock” Johnson, known for his WWE stardom and Hollywood success, has been a pillar of support for Gorimbo. Inspired by Gorimbo’s journey from poverty in Zimbabwe to MMA success, “The Rock” gifted him a house in 2023. The friendship was evident as Gorimbo entered the octagon, with Johnson expressing well wishes on social media just hours before the fight.
He fights to pay it forward 🙏🏾👏🏾💪🏾
Wishing my brother @TheAnswerMMA best of luck today in his @UFC welterweight fight on FIGHT NIGHT on @ESPN+
@ 1PM PT
Themba’s amazing story caught my eye when MMA fans sent me an ESPN tweet where Themba had just $7 bucks in his bank account… pic.twitter.com/C6FDqS8gKP
— Dwayne Johnson (@TheRock) February 3, 2024
Gorimbo’s triumph extends beyond the octagon. Grateful for “The Rock’s” generosity, he pledged to give back by initiating projects for clean drinking water infrastructure in Africa. This victory serves not only as a professional achievement but also as a testament to the impact of solidarity and compassion in the world of mixed martial arts.
In the broader context of UFC Fight Night 235, other notable results unfolded. Blake Bilder faced off against Jung Gyeong Lee, Luana Carolina secured a TKO victory over Julija Stoliarenko, Marquel Mederos claimed a unanimous decision against Landon Quinones, and Jamal Pogues emerged victorious over Thomas Petersen via unanimous decision.
As we celebrate Gorimbo’s swift triumph, it is a reminder that in the realm of professional sports, personal stories and connections can elevate the significance of a victory. The camaraderie between Gorimbo and “The Rock” Johnson brings a heartwarming dimension to the intense world of UFC, showing that success is not only measured in seconds inside the octagon but also in the bonds formed outside of it.
KAIRA’S VIEW
In a remarkable display of speed and skill, Themba Gorimbo triumphed in a swift 32-second TKO victory over Pete Rodriguez at UFC Fight Night 235. The electrifying performance not only solidified Gorimbo’s standing in the MMA world but also drew attention to the heartwarming camaraderie shared with his close friend, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. The connection between the two extends beyond the octagon, with “The Rock” being inspired by Gorimbo’s journey from poverty in Zimbabwe to becoming an MMA contender. The gesture of gifting Gorimbo a house in 2023 reflects not only the bond between them but also a commitment to making a positive impact. Gorimbo, now on a winning streak, plans to pay this generosity forward by spearheading initiatives for clean drinking water infrastructure in Africa. As “The Rock” expressed well wishes on social media just hours before Gorimbo’s fight, this victory becomes a poignant chapter in a story of resilience, friendship, and the transformative power of the human spirit.
