Shihan Samson Muripo’s Inner Circle Reveals the True Champion Behind the Karate Legend
Zimbabwe has produced many exceptional sports personalities, but none have achieved the level of iconic status in karate as Shihan Samson Muripo.
Born in the humble settings of Chishiri Village, Chimanimani, the two-time World Champion’s journey began in 1993 at Ndima Government High School.
After three decades, the tale is about the first African World Karate Champion about to retire after his last bout at the 2nd So-Kyokushin World Karate tournament in Shizuoka City, Japan, which is scheduled for November 25-27, 2023.
The upcoming event represents Muripo’s aspiration to ascend to the esteemed 6th Dan.
“If achieved, it would reflect the resilience, determination, perseverance, focus and aspiration in achieving the mastery of the Kyokushin Karate way, and it will give us undeterred confidence regardless of any form of challenges that may come over in the furtherance of So-Kyokushin Karate development in all communities within our jurisdiction,” Muripo tells EnterSportNews.
In 2009, Muripo made history in Japan’s Karate scene by winning gold at Osaka’s 1st World Cup Open Karate Tournament, defeating the formidable Japanese champion, Kikuyama Yasumichi.
It was a major achievement for Zimbabwe and the entire continent of Africa. He became the World Kyokushin Karate Champion and Zimbabwe’s Sportsperson of the Year in 2009.
However, behind all the accolades and recognition lies a story of persistent commitment and determination.
“For one to be examined for 6th Dan (Rokudan),” Muripo elucidates, “it takes a minimum of 25 years of continuous training, accompanied by an outstanding trail of exceptional result-oriented competition history and Kyokushin Karate development, influence in our society, the Nation at large, regionally and continentally.”
Shizuoka is preparing to host the final competition of So-Kyokushin virtuoso, Shihan Muripo. This event is a celebration of competition as well as a tribute to the cultural richness of Karate. Shihan Muripo has had a significant impact on the art of Karate. Recently, EnterSportNews had the opportunity to interview Shihan Muripo’s inner circle, revealing touching reflections and cherished memories of the karate icon.
Diving deep into this rich saga, EnterSportNews recently connected with Shihan Muripo’s inner circle, unveiling poignant insights and treasured reminiscences of the revered karate icon.
Hanshi Bas van Stenis, 8th Dan, IKOKU Japan. Regional Mentor – South Africa
“Shihan Samson Muripo’s achievement should not be underestimated. Zimbabwe should be truly proud of its son, who singlehandedly put Zimbabwe on the world Karate map. I’ve never been more proud of any of my students than that day.
For 40 years, Africa had tried to produce a world champion, and now we had one. He is a true gladiator champion out of Africa. Despite facing personal tragedies, his integrity, discipline, and indomitable spirit shine through.
I see him as my son in Karate, and every time he steps onto the ‘tatami’, he commands a presence that few can rival.
His trademarks are honesty, integrity, self-belief, and discipline. A significant asset he possesses is a big heart and a high pain tolerance.
In 2008, I managed and coached an All-Africa team to the World Karate Championships in Japan- four Zimbabweans and four South Africans.
History has been made: Shihan Samson Muripo has become the first African to ever win the World Kyokushin Karate Championship. I always believed he could do it, and I supported him throughout his journey to the final.
His decision to retire may end his competitive journey, but it marks the beginning of his legacy in the development of Martial Arts in Zimbabwe and Africa.”
Sensei Abubakr Petersen. (South Africa)
“Samson is a brother in Christ and a man of God. He acknowledges God in everything.
I remember his high pain tolerance, hard shins, and strong punches. He is very calm in his fighting, not brawling and applying solid techniques. It’s very inspiring.
Even during our training drills, I felt Shihan Muripo’s calm demeanour, high pain tolerance, and sheer force.
I watched him conquer the 2009 world championship, notably besting the Japanese champion on his turf, and was inspired to take my challenges head-on.
But beyond his accomplishments in the sport, what truly stands out is his humility, faith in God, and the serenity he brings to the mat.
His grounded nature and unyielding spirit serve as a beacon for many of us, reminding us of the greatness achievable when heart, faith, and discipline merge.”
Sensei Thomas Mayekani, Shinkyokushinkai Karate RSA, WKO branch chief, 3rd Dan Black Belt – South Africa
“I witnessed a fighter with a never-say-die attitude, fierce on the Tatami and calm outside it.
It wasn’t a surprise that Shihan Samson Muripo won the World Tournament in 2009, the first African to do so, if not the last.
He had achieved so much in karate that he’s making a great decision to retire to nurture and unearth new talent.”
Sempai Elliot Chisalanga: 1st Dan So-Kyokushin Malawi Branch Chief. Malawi Karate Union: Assistant Technical Director – Malawi
“He never complains; he just trains harder than yesterday.
Shihan Muripo is a great teacher; he doesn’t spoon-feed you; he shows you how, and you discover things along the way.
I have seen great leaders, but Shihan Samson Muripo is probably the best.”
Sensei Tchobruce MAMBA, 4th Dan International Branch Chief and 4th vice-president of the Congolese National Federation of Kyokushinkai and Associated Disciplines. Fenacokyo/DA – DRC
“Shihan Muripo, for me, is a hero, a very powerful karateka who I always call the ‘Terminator’ because of his way of fighting.
He has an influence and impact and is a reference for the entire generation.
He is a model for most young Africans. Shihan Muripo impressed me on the day of his participation in the world championship in Japan, where he represented not only Zimbabwe, his country of origin but also all of Africa.
Kyokushin in Zimbabwe was not known as it is today. Even the Zimbabwean head of state testifies to this today.
I am very grateful for it. The Shihan Muripo is an expert in hardening the body, with his speciality of Shita tsuki (uppercut), which often leaves me speechless about all his fights.
He is a machine of destruction.
Having an African who can manage Kyokushini in Africa is my last proposal to the Shihan Muripo.
A mighty warrior, I must meet you in Kinshasa in 2024.
Shihan Samson Muripo, with respect, I will be proud to see you pass your higher Dan to promote martial arts in Africa.”
Sempai Mind Mbozhi, 1st Dan Black Belt holder – So-Kyokushin Karate Zimbabwe
“Shihan Samson Muripo is the first African world karate champion, a two-time world karate champion. He is a record-breaking two-time world karate champion, and Karate is in Muripo’s DNA.
He practices Karate with passion. Muripo’s retirement from fighting will affect the African karate legacy because we do not have any champions besides him. As a master, Muripo is looking forward to upgrading African Karate.
Shihan Muripo puts African Karate to a certain level, and no one breaks the record or the trademark he puts in Karate.
Personally, Shihan groomed me to a certain level as a karateka.
He is a professional instructor who brings my karate journey a bright future. Shihan raises our Zimbabwean flag to a higher level.
All this Muripo is doing with very little support.
As a professional karate leader, Shihan Muripo, we wish his last fight in Japan on 25 to 27 November 2023 to be as successful as before.”
Shihan Maxwell Mawire, 7th Dan Black Belt – AJTKIF and Sjk-Go-ju Zimbabwe
“Shihan Samson Muripo is a goal-getter type of leader who is willing to learn more skills and a unifier of people from different martial arts styles worldwide.
His signature mark is a short punch to the chest combined with a Gedan mawashi geri (lower kick below the belt); this is his championship-winning technique.
He is a good fighter, but for him to retire when he is beginning to make an impact.
I would not advise him to retire because he still has much to offer. Instead, he should double in the technical department as a kumite coach and fighter.
He is still required in the ring, and the communities need him, the Zimbabwe full-contact karate team, as a fighter and a coach.
I wish him good fortune in everything he is going to do—Osu from Shihan Maxwell Mawire.
Sensei Mzwandile Ngwenya, 3rd Dan Black Belt holder, Sosai Kyokushin Kaikan Karate of Eswatini
“In every sport, it is normal for Champions to retire while still shining.
It’s a good decision for him, mainly because his belt rank (5th Dan Black belt) now demands him to do more administration for his organisation and country.
But on the same verge, we will greatly miss him in the Tatami. He is our stallion in the African continent, and we know he always brings a strong team from Zimbabwe.
His sacrifice for our sport is incredible, and we can see the results even under a challenging financial environment.
He always does it because he loves the sport.”
Sempai Florry Chandavengerwa, Blue Belt – So-Kyokushin Karate Zimbabwe
“When I saw the video of Shihan Muripo, it gave me a big punch to my spirit and attracted me a lot to keep walking in this journey, following his footsteps as a competitor.”
Sensei Likhwa Khumalo, 4th Dan Black Belt, International Fighter – Open/Heavy Weight, former Chairperson, Zimbabwe So-Kyokushin Karate-do, 2012-2018, Chairperson, Zimbabwe So-Kyokushin Karate-do, Harare Province, Chairperson, Harare Karate Union (20 Different Full Contact Styles, affiliated to Zimbabwe Karate Union)
“Karate is a way of life, and the retirement is not from Karate but from competitive fighting.
If we say Shihan Samson Muripo is retiring and getting a Roku Dan (6th Dan), it is important to re-listen to the paraphrase. It emphasises the responsibilities that are now coming with the belt, more grooming of fighters, development and so on.
Kyokushin at large needed more African representation at World Tournaments in Japan.
There’s an athlete in the Republic of South Africa named Sensei Ben Sedwaba; he once came 8th in the Open Kyokushin Tournament, the furthest Africa had gone.
It so happens that the gap kept on closing until the World Championship 1st Place by Muripo Shihan.
His signature in fighting is ‘Seiken,’ a straight punch; a series of them during a fight was/is his winning way.
As a friend, his approach to Karate has inspired us to continue training without ceasing regardless of people and other environments.”
Sensei Robson Mucheni, a.k.a Daxso, 3rd Dan Black Belt holder – International Kenbu Kai Karate and United World Martial Arts Federation, Zimbabwe.
“Shihan Samson Muripo is one of the best athletes in sports.
The way he showed his technical skills, his punches, and the way he supplied all the combinations was amazing. That was so inspirational, and I learned a lot from him.
It comes as a shock to me about his retirement, and he is still energetic. But if it is his decision, I respect him for that.
Leaving Tatami doesn’t mean leaving the sport; he is still needed because he is a good teacher and a source of inspiration to every karateka.
He is our mentor and has a good sense of humour.
He shows other grown-ups who still want to face the Tatami that sometimes you have to give the young ones time to shine and raise their names. We still need your technical skills and so on.
Shihan Muripo was the first person to put Africa on the map regarding karate. He is the first African World Champion.”
Sensei Stanford Mamutse, 3rd Dan Black Belt holder – So-Kyokushin Karate of Zimbabwe
“Shihan Muripo is a legend in the martial arts world. He showed how Karate is not supposed to be used for violence but is discipline; it teaches a lot in life.
His decision to retire is a good thing; he already showed us the way to follow and what needs to be done – train more than you sleep, train hard to fight easy.
We will be champions just like Shihan. He’s like a father to many So Kyokushin students.”
George Mucheni, 1st Dan Black belt holder – International Kyokushin Karate Organisation (IKKO) – Zimbabwe
“Shihan Samson Muripo was the first African to scoop the world tournament.
He inspired me to train more and win a world title like him, and I even want to break his record, too.
He is one of the best instructors.”
Sempai Onisimo Ndyari, Brown belt (1st Kyu) holder – International Karate Organisation Kyokushin Kaikan, World So-Kyokushin – Zimbabwe
“After watching Shihan Samson Muripo’s videos and the match that impressed me the most, I fell in love with Karate.
He did a great job of raising our national flag and grooming champions.
Usually, when your parent passes on towards your tournament day, you automatically go out of form, but Muripo stood without fear in Russia, where he attained his 2nd world champion title.
I salute this man, Shihan Samson Muripo, as my father.
His career influenced me a lot in my journey of Karate.”
Sempai Samantha Chizengwe, 10th Kyu – World So-Kyokushin – Zimbabwe
The first time I contacted Shihan on Facebook, I told him I wanted to be like him.
He laughed and said, ‘You can be, but it takes dedication.’
Durban was my first regional tournament, so being on the list was inspirational. I lost and was thinking of quitting, but training under him, you still feel the zeal to do more, whether you win or lose.
His belief and vision for Kyokushin in Africa are unshakable.
He once told me, ‘You can lose before fighting and win before fighting; it all depends on your faith.’
Our faith in God, dedication, and commitment make us winners in our battles and life.”
Senpai Thabani Mndebela, Medical Doctor, Former IKO Matsui IKO 1 Heavyweight Champion (2008-2016), Former All Africa Heavyweight Champion Matsui IKO 1 (2008-2016), Retired from Karate in 2016, Current Last Fighter Standing Heavyweight Champion (2016), and Current Extreme Fighting Heavyweight Champion (2021 Undisputed) – South Africa
“If it weren’t for Saiko Shihan Samson Muripo, I wouldn’t be the fighter, doctor, husband, father, friend, brother, and son I am today.
He taught me to face life’s challenges with pride. He made me a better man.
After he brought a title to his father’s grave in 2019, I did the same for mine in 2021.
Our souls will always be connected.
God bless you, Sir. I appreciate you, Saiko Shihan Samson Muripo.”
Uchideshi Sempai Vanessa Faustina Kamusoso, 6th Kyu Yellow Belt -World So-Kyokushin Karate Zimbabwe
“Shihan Muripo is not just the first African World Champion but a humble leader, a father to all his students.
His most outstanding achievements will not be his own but of those he has raised.
Even as he transitions from the ring, his unwavering dedication remains; his dream is to raise our nation’s flag through Karate.”
Sempai Tinashe Tevin Magaiza: – 5th Kyu, So Kyokushin Karate Zimbabwe and World Budo Kyokushin, 2018 Champion of Champions Kyokushin Silver Medalist, 2018 Ranked Top 7 in South East Asia for Fencing, 2022 Heavyweight AMAFC Kickboxing Champion, Ranked Top 4 in the League (Malaysia), 2022 Music Grand-Winner (Singing/Guitar) – Concentrix Malaysia.
“If 2018 I had not trained with Shihan Samson Muripo, I probably would not be alive; he does not know this but gave me a reason to continue again.
For me, he is not retiring but making himself fully available to the crowd he has been leading towards carrying the legacy of what he has achieved.
A samurai can sheath his sword, but he can never make the fighting spirit lay itself in the bed of rest. To retire for me is to “re-attire” himself.
He’s putting on a different war uniform and passing on his weapons of war. It will positively affect the sport because we are inspired by the fact that he did something no African had ever done.
Now, we all aim to surpass his achievements somehow.
No one trains harder than this boulder of a man, and few can accept that suffering is part of one’s destiny, which has differentiated him.
He trains more than he sleeps.
I remember one of his Uchideshi once telling me they would wake up to train at 1 a.m. or 3 a.m.”
Sensei Naison Chituwa – Zimbabwe
“I am a better person today because of Shihan Muripo; he has played an important role in my life.
I recall the match involving Shihan Muripo as inspirational for me when he fought in the 4th IKO Matsushima World Cup Karate Tournament in Durban in 2014, Republic of South Africa, where the former President of South Africa Cde Jacob Zuma was the Guest of Honour.
On this tournament, I realised that Kyokushin is not just a sport but a way of life. He was the only African karateka who fought to the last round. Everyone was singing appraisal songs supporting Shihan Muripo, like Sho Sholoza.
On and off the field, he has inspired many young people to participate in the sport; this has helped young people refrain from drugs and violence. He also inspired men and women to desist from gender-based violence.
I think Shihan Muripo’s decision to retire is an excellent decision to a greater extent, will allow him to pass knowledge and skills to the new generations and is good for his health.”
Sempai Lewis Ian Marowero, 1st Kyu Brown belt holder – Zimbabwe So-Kyokushin Karate
“Shihan Muripo sponsored my passport application in 2018 when I wanted to go to a regional tournament in South Africa, which I didn’t have then; to me, it was personal.
Our relationship is gold.
Considering his age, retiring is well now, as most of his companions cannot even participate in tournaments.
His retirement will bring a positive vibe, especially to the youngsters, as he will concentrate much on them.”
Sensei Given Nkala, Zambia
“His decision to retire is full of great wisdom, and it’s a welcome move.
It’ll give more strength to the followers because they’ll need to train hard to attain high levels of competition.
He’ll have more time to psychologically psyche the fighters and steer their growth to the highest standards.
The retiring aspect is hard to define in high-level Budoka such as Shihan Samson because he’ll remain active, especially since he’s among the strongest Budoka on the planet.
Through his achievement, it is evident that all human beings are just the same and that all humans have abilities to excel in any spheres of life anywhere in the world.”
Shihan Simba Mangamba, Namibia
“I am not in support of him to retire.
Shihan Muripo has great potential to build our youth in Africa and beyond.
He has a record most martial artists dream of; he is still young, and I suggest he hold on for another 10 years.
Let him attend his 6th Dan to lead even African seniors to great heights. He has a record most martial arts athletes dream of.
Let Africa Untie #OneFamilyOneMission”
Shihan Thulane Sibisi, 5th Dan International Kyokushinkai Karate Federation South Africa
“Shihan Samson is my role model; when I was with him in Japan, I saw an African Warrior with a Strong Heart and a will to win and represent Africa.
The world knows Kyokushin Karate because of Shihan Samson; he has played an essential role in building Kyokushin Karate in Africa.
Even in challenging moments, like at Kansai International Airport in Osaka, he was detained for over two hours for no apparent reason. He remained calm and not panicking.
His achievements have brought great masters to Africa, bridging the gap between continents.
The world knows Kyokushin Karate because of Shihan Samson. He has played a crucial role in building Kyokushin Karate in Africa, and we appreciate his efforts.
It’s not always when the Master of Kyokushin Karate can come to Africa, but with his achievements, we have seen the Japanese Ambassador Tournament and Master like Kancho Oishi Daigo have come to Africa because they believe in him.”
Sensei Mphuma Humbulani, Republic of South Africa
“We have known Shihan Samson Muripo in South Africa as a ‘giant killer’, a man with an undying heart who fights like a wounded tiger, representing the African continent with unmatched pride and spirit.
His journey in Karate resembles a fine wine; with age, he only gets better and better.
He’s a formidable fighter and a beacon of humility, love, and unwavering consistency.
Shihan Samson Muripo, you are cherished and revered. As you enter your last world tournament, we stand united in our prayers and support, ready to celebrate your triumphs.
You’ve always made us proud; this time will be no different.”
Sensei Muchineripi Tarwireyi, 4th Dan Black Belt Holder, So-Kyokushin Kaikan of Zimbabwe
“Shihan Samson Muripo sleeps and dreams karate.
Ever since 2005 in Russia, I have recognised his unmatched potential.
Not only is he dedicated to So-Kyokushin, but his commitment to grooming champions is unwavering.
Even off the Tatami, his influence will resonate, producing more champions and guiding karatekas like myself to greater heights.
I am at the 4th Dan level because of Shihan Muripo.”
Sensei Admire Chingozhoro – Zimbabwe
“As we age as karatekas, we must protect ourselves from career-threatening injuries.
At the age of 45, Shihan Muripo’s noble decision to focus on grooming upcoming champions showcases his wisdom.
It’s pivotal to allow the young generation to take the lead while we guide them from the sidelines.”
Shihan Collen Sedoaba: Masters Degree in School Management, Teacher since 1989, 5th Dan in Kyokushin Karate, Branch Chief of Kyokushin-Kan in Gauteng, Renshi Shihan License obtained in 2005
“My first encounter with Shihan Sam Muripo was in 2003 when I visited Zimbabwe after being invited by his instructor, Shihan Tendayi Marange.
At the time, Shihan Muripo was a brown belt.
He defected from our organisation and joined another Kyokushin group and, ultimately, the So-Kyokushin group.
He gained fame with his victory in the World Tournament. Shihan Muripo is known for his diligence and humble nature.
It’s time that he retires from fighting, continues to grow his organisation, and concentrates on producing instructors and fighters who will fly the Zim flag.
I wish him the best in his endeavour to undergo the Sixth Dan test.”
Sempai Simbarashee Khumba, 1st Kyu brown belt holder, Zimbabwe So-Kyokushin Karate
“Since I was young, Shihan Samson Muripo’s victory in the 2009 World Championship deeply inspired me, pushing me to rise.
His retirement may open doors for the upcoming generation, but it’s a poignant moment for the sport, as it might be the first and last time we witness such a monumental fighter.
Yet, we have a budding generation crafted by Shihan Samson Muripo himself.”
