US-based martial arts fighter dies in accident

ARTHUR Mpofu, a promising Zimbabwean mixed martial arts fighter based in Massachusetts in the United States of America died last week there following a road traffic accident.

He had just turned 27.
Son of former national welterweight amateur champion Morris Chiwawula, Mpofu had a 7-5 record and his management company, Iridium looked at him as a promising fighter in the bantamweight division.

He started his mixed martial arts career in 2018 racing to three straight wins before he tested defeat. His father confirmed from Gaborone, Botswana yesterday that the lad had died in the US following an accident and that he would be buried in Zimbabwe.

“It’s a blow to the family. We are making efforts to have him buried in Zimbabwe and his colleagues have started a fundraiser,” said Chiwawula.

Mpofu is said to have been very well known in the sport especially in the Massachusetts region.
Iridium Sports Agency were his management team.

It is an organisation which represents UFC fighters like Loopy Godinez, Eryk Anders, Jon Castaneda, Daniel Pineda and Ode’ Osbourne.

He looked like he was on track for the big time in the cage fights.
Iridium wrote on Instagram: “We’re deeply saddened to acknowledge the passing of #TeamIridium athlete Arthur Mpofu.

Arthur was a fast-rising prospect in the fight game and a very kind, intelligent & caring man outside of the cage. Our thoughts & prayers are with his family, friends & team at this painful time.”
Mpofu was born May 28, 1996 in New England and had a mixed bag of results but that did not deter him as his camp still saw a bright future in him.

On May 14 Mpofu landed his first submission win as he beat Sam Thompson.
After his 12 fights as an amateur with a 7-5 record, Mpofu went on to compete seven times for Cage Titans, to emerge with a record of five wins and two losses holding the amateur bantamweight title.
At the time of his death he was a champion in his region.

Among the fighters he faced were Tyler Smythe, Marcel Romero, Andrew Valdina, Jeff Joy, and Kam Arnold. His fights were described as thrillers. In real life he is said to have been friendly and funny at the same time.

His influence was felt from Alabama to New England.
Cassie Wilcox said: ” Arthur Mpofu, take it easy. May you find comfort in your ultimate rest, you gentle person that left us far too soon. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers. Shawni Enright posted an Arthur Mpofu, This has shattered my heart so much.

Always loved you, Arthur. Despite everything you experienced, you were such a good-hearted young man. Giovanni Perrone Arthur Mpofu submitted a comment, You were friends with both my father and me, and you inspired us with Muay Thai.

You will be missed, and this hurts. So this was all about this case. So, Stay tuned to PKB news.”
Chiwawula confirmed last night that US$23 340 had been raised at the instigation of his team in the US towards the repatriation of the remains of his son.