“Loudmouth” or “Victim”? Themba Gorimbo Deletes Facebook Amid Trolling
Zimbabwean mixed martial arts fighter Themba Gorimbo has deactivated his Facebook account following widespread trolling by Zimbabweans after his swift 52-second loss to Vicente Luque at UFC 310.
Gorimbo, who had been active on social media, faced a barrage of criticism, negativity, and mocking comments after the fight. Many fans expressed their disappointment, while others saw his loss as a consequence of his brash and outspoken nature.
Following the news about Gorimbo, Zimbabweans on social media did not hold back in their comments. One user, Perpetual Kanengoni, tweeted:
“Kana muchiti toxicity and negativity munenge muchimboreveiko? When the guy sided with the oppressors it was positive I guess. He can stay down for all I care.”
Another user, Eliza Chiko, added a spiritual perspective:
“It’s not godly to make a living out of punching blows. Those are devil’s sports. He might deactivate from the evil sport as well.”
Lee Henryz also chimed in, stating:
“He is a loudmouth, that one, he started humble, but money quickly got into his head, and he started behaving like a clown.”
Some people believed that Gorimbo’s actions on and off the octagon had invited criticism.
Mixed Reactions
While the negativity was overwhelming, some comments highlighted the challenges of being in the public eye.
A user known as SeRanga remarked:
“Pasocial media don’t expect kungokuziwa also expect vanoshora. It’s part of life.”
Peter Mpanki took a more constructive tone, saying:
“Exactly, he needs to concentrate than talking too much.”
Another user, Teflon Don-Black Stallion, linked Gorimbo’s loss to his previous online controversies:
“Zvainakidza ka ariye arikuwanzira winky d…ukatuka winky d unosvava seshizha rabva pana mai varo.”
(Image Credit: Facebook/ Themba Gorimbo)
A Difficult Moment for Gorimbo
Gorimbo’s decision to deactivate his Facebook account suggests that the online trolling took a toll on him. Family Guy expressed little sympathy, tweeting:
“So he enjoys it when he’s doing it himself, what a selfish bastard, ndosaka akarohwa in 52seconds.”
The reactions highlight the dual-edged nature of fame and the pressures faced by athletes after high-profile losses. Gorimbo is yet to comment publicly on his decision or his plans.
What Lies Ahead?
As Gorimbo takes a break from social media, fans and critics alike wonder if he will make changes to his career approach or return to his fighting roots.
What’s your take on the backlash athletes face online?
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