Shihan Wilfred Mashaya, the reigning Kobudo World Champion from Zimbabwe, has once again demonstrated why he is a force to be reckoned with in the world of martial arts. At the International Martial Arts Corporation (IMAC) English Open Tournament, held at the York Leisure Centre in England on Sunday, August 4th, Mashaya, affectionately known as the “Zim Ninja,” delivered a masterful performance that secured him an astounding four gold medals and one silver medal.
Competing against top martial artists from around the globe, Mashaya showcased his unmatched prowess across five different categories. His remarkable skill with ancient Okinawan and Japanese weapons ranging from swords and nunchaku to tonfa, sai, and kama earned him gold medals in the Black Belt Traditional Weapon, Black Belt Freestyle Weapon, Black Belt Creative Weapons, and Mixed Weapon Category divisions. Even in the fiercely competitive Advanced Musical Weapons category, Mashaya secured a silver medal, further solidifying his status as a martial arts virtuoso.
Mashaya’s success is a testament to his deep dedication and extensive martial arts expertise. With multiple black belts in disciplines such as Kyokushin, Bujinkan Ninjutsu, and Self-Defence, he has honed his craft to an extraordinary level. His dominance at the IMAC English Open Tournament is not just a victory for himself, but a proud moment for Zimbabwe, as he prepares to take on the world at the upcoming martial arts World Championships in Germany this October.
In a fitting recognition of his extraordinary achievements, the IMAC organizers appointed Mashaya as the official representative of the Martial Arts Body in Zimbabwe, an honour that reflects his unwavering commitment to the martial arts. The certificate of appointment he received is a symbol of his leadership and dedication to the sport.
As the founder of the Zim Ninja Academy in Harare, Shihan Mashaya continues to inspire and train the next generation of martial artists in Zimbabwe. His accolades are numerous, including being a Multi Award-Winning Martial Artist, Hall of Famer, former Zimbabwe Sports Person of the Year (2018), the first Zimbabwean Regional Sportsman of the Year, and the first African Kobudo World Champion.
Shihan Mashaya’s achievements are a source of immense pride for Zimbabwe and the entire martial arts community. His relentless pursuit of excellence and his unparalleled skill make him not just a champion, but a true legend in the world of martial arts.
