SIMBARASHE Khumba won the men’s under 70kgs at the “I. K. O. Matsushima” Shihan Sabelo Karate Tournament recently held in Kwaximba, KwaZulu Natal, South Africa.
In a 3-round challenge match, Khumba emerged victorious over Alex Msizazwe from South Africa.
Khumba, a So-Kyokushin Karate 1st Kyu brown belt holder, acknowledges his mentors for playing a significant role in his development. He attributes his transformation to training with his Sensei and receiving guidance from Shihan Samson Muripo.
The So-Kyokushin karate champion believes in training hard so that fighting would become easier, and he worked hard to break into karate, overcoming obstacles.
“Breaking into karate wasn’t a walk in the park. The beginning was filled with sweat, bruises, and challenges, but I was determined. Well, it paid off,” Khumba tells EnterSportNews.
He has accomplished a lot in So-Kyokushin karate, which shows that he never gives up, and he shares a deep, almost familial bond with his team and mentors, solidified by mutual respect and faith.
“The bond I have with my Sensei, thanks to our shared principles and faith, feels unbreakable,” he says.
Icons like Shihan Muripo and Sensei Naison Chituwa have been his guiding stars throughout this journey.
He showed his strong mind during his recent success in South Africa, which he developed over time. One unforgettable memory for Khumba is his face-off against a senior in the finals.
“That fight boosted my confidence and shaped how I approach every match since,” adds Khumba.
Khumba is getting ready for the 2nd So-Kyokushin World Karate Tournament in Japan. He is excited and optimistic about it. Shihan Muripo, a two-time world champion, is mentoring him for the tournament, which will take place on November 25-27, 2023, in Japan.
