York, England – In a stunning display of skill and precision, Zimbabwe’s celebrated martial artist, Shihan Wilfred Mashaya, dominated the International Martial Arts Corporation (IMAC) English Open Tournament, securing gold medals in all five categories he entered. The event, held at York Leisure Centre on 15 June 2025, saw the revered “Zim Ninja” reaffirm his mastery of ancient Okinawan and Japanese weaponry, including the sword, nunchaku, tonfa, sai, and kama.
Competing against elite martial artists from across the globe, including England, Wales, Scotland, India, Nepal, Romania, and Poland, Mashaya’s flawless technique earned him gold in the Black Belt Traditional Weapon, Black Belt Freestyle Weapon, Black Belt Creative Weapons, and Musical & Advanced Weapon divisions. His success was no accident; it was the culmination of decades of disciplined training across multiple disciplines. Holding a Sixth Dan Black Belt, Mashaya is a seasoned practitioner of Kyokushin Karate, Bujinkan Ninjutsu, and Kobudo (traditional weapons combat), making him one of Africa’s most decorated martial artists.
Beyond his medal haul, Mashaya was awarded the prestigious Athlete of the Tournament trophy, an accolade recognising his exceptional performance and sportsmanship. This victory serves as a powerful confidence boost as he prepares for the World Martial Arts Championships in Wales this October.
Beyond his personal achievements, Mashaya is deeply committed to nurturing future talent. As the founder of the Zim Ninja Academy in Harare, he trains students as young as four, alongside adults of all ages, fostering a new generation of martial artists. With ambitions to lead a 15-strong team (including both children and adults) to the World Championships, Mashaya is actively seeking sponsorship to turn this vision into reality. His goal extends beyond competition; it’s about putting Zimbabwe on the global martial arts map while promoting gender balance in combat sports.
The tournament was not just a personal triumph but a moment of national pride. Zimbabweans based in the UK rallied behind their champion, with William Mahlunge (Muparendi Wigo) travelling from Wales to welcome Mashaya at Heathrow Airport. The Mhundwa family, along with other supporters, cheered him on with Zimbabwean flags and spirited chants, a gesture Mashaya credited for fuelling his historic five-medal sweep.
Mashaya’s accolades speak for themselves: 2018 Zimbabwe Sports Person of the Year, First African Kobudo World Champion, and Zimbabwe’s first certified Ninja. Having represented his nation in Russia, Spain, Italy, Bangladesh, Montenegro, and beyond, he continues to break barriers, proving that Zimbabwe produces world-class martial artists.
As he sets his sights on the World Championships, one thing is clear: Shihan Wilfred Mashaya is not just winning medals, he’s inspiring a nation.
