The story of Themba Gorimbo has moved many, including Hollywood star Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson.
Gorimbo, a UFC welterweight, said in May after his second fight with the promotion that he only had $7 in his bank account and was struggling financially in the bout’s lead up.
During a post-fight news conference following his decision win over Takashi Sato at UFC Fight Night 224, Gorimbo said he only had money to get himself a plane ticket to MMA Masters in Miami and was living in the gym and sleeping on a couch. He was grateful for the victory and was eager to get back to his family in Zimbabwe.
After seeing these comments on social media, “The Rock” surprised Gorimbo by meeting him at MMA Masters in Miami unannounced. The shock went further when “The Rock” tricked Gorimbo into walking into a house, one he purchased for him.
Overcome with emotion and gratitude, Gorimbo told “The Rock” he plans to pay the favor forward when he’s able.
“I’ll tell you what I’m going to do,” Gorimbo said. “Because I was supposed to get a house to come here and stuff. The money I was going to use for the house, I’m going to build another borehole in my village now when I land in Africa.”
Watch the video of the surprise below:
Welcome home @TheAnswerMMA
You and your family enjoy your new house brother.
Lights are on.
Bills are paid.
Keep your “My Reason” list close, keep taking care of your people and I’m honored to play a very, very small role in your $7 bucks journey.
$7 bucks.
I’ve been there… pic.twitter.com/rSyC7EiD5I— Dwayne Johnson (@TheRock) August 3, 2023
