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Sports Illustrated
Sports Illustrated
Entertainment
Frankie Taddeo

'No more sleeping on a couch gym.' This story is truly incredible.

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson posted arguably the biggest ‘feel good’ story of 2023 to social media on Thursday.

“No more sleeping on a gym couch."

The selfless story of UFC fighter Themba Gorimbo reached tremendous heights when the retired professional wrestler and actor gifted the inspirational athlete with a new house in Miami.

After only previously exchanging messages on Twitter, the 51-year-old Johnson shared the emotional surprise meeting. In the viral video, Gorimbo reiterates that he was down to just $7 in his bank account prior to earning his first career victory at UFC Vegas 73 back in May.

After his win over Takashi Sato, via decision, Gorimbo announced he would auction off his fight kit so he could build a water well back home in Zimbabwe.

Gorimbo’s selfless actions tugged on Johnson’s heart strings, since he also once struggled monetarily prior to gaining immense wealth.

“I’ve got to tell you, your story moved me,” Johnson told the emotional Gorimbo. “When I found out you had $7 in your bank account, I know what that’s like. I was here in Miami when I had $7, but then also you win your second fight, then you sell your fight kit, you buy a water well for your village in Zimbabwe so your people can have clean water.”

The inspirational story of a young UFC fighter with a tremendous heart moved Johnson to get involved.

“Because you could have taken that money and put it down on a car, on an apartment, but you didn’t. You took care of your people, and that just says exactly who you are, and that’s why I flew all the way in,” Johnson said.

After taking a drive with Johnson, Gorimbo was shocked to arrive at a beautiful home Johnson purchased for him on the water in Miami.

“I wanted to look you in the eye and I wanted to tell you welcome home,” Johnson said.

Gorimbo, who owns a 1-1 career record in the UFC, promised Johnson that his impact [the new home, friendship and kindness] would take his career to the pinnacle.

“I will become a champion,” Gorimbo said.

You can rest assured that the talented fighter will keep his “My Reason” list close, motivating him to make Johnson proud of his achievements.

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