HARARE – Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) star Themba Gorimbo and former boxer Charles Manyuchi have entered into a heated war of words, sparked by their political allegiances.
Manyuchi openly backs the ruling party ZANU PF, while Gorimbo has been critical of the corruption in Zimbabwe that has seen party tenderpreneurs benefit while ordinary citizens suffer.
A few days ago, a video surfaced in which Manyuchi said he would not hesitate to accept any gift, especially money, from controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo, who has been splashing millions of US dollars on favoured personalities and influencers, particularly those who publicly support the ruling party.
“Ini mari ndotora ndikapihwa. Mari ndotora,” said Manyuchi, insisting he would accept any gift from ZANU PF politicians.
His remarks came after Gorimbo publicly criticised those receiving cars and money from Chivayo.
Responding to Manyuchi, Gorimbo, who is currently based in the United States, said the former boxer is selfish for accepting what he called “dirty” money from corrupt individuals while ordinary Zimbabweans suffer.
Gorimbo posted a video and several posts on his Facebook page addressing Manyuchi directly.
“Charles Manyuchi, show me one picture of yourself helping your community,” Gorimbo wrote, sharing photos of himself donating at his former school.
He added: “In 2019, I paid school fees for 66 students for a full year at Gwindingwi High School. Will wait for one of yours before posting many more. You only care about yourself, not people. No sports integrity.”
The two athletes are likely to continue exchanging words as their political differences intensify.
