“Shaolin Master” Nsimba Bafuka’s retirement match in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is a fitting tribute to a remarkable career that has left a lasting impact on professional wrestling across Africa.
Shaolin Master’s retirement from active competition is a monumental moment for African professional wrestling. His final match on African soil is set to take place in Kinshasa from August 7th, 8th and the grand finale of a major international professional wrestling championship on Sunday 9th of August 2026,
As both an accomplished wrestler and a respected trainer, Shaolin Master has dedicated decades to developing athletes, promoting wrestling, and mentoring the next generation of African talents. His work through Brussels Young Wrestling Style (BYWS) and his collaborations with Pro Wrestling Africa have helped expand opportunities for wrestlers from countries including Nigeria, Togo, Ghana, Benin, Cameroon, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
The Kinshasa retirement event carries special significance, as it marks his final competitive appearance on African soil after a career devoted not only to entertaining fans but also to building the sport through coaching, seminars, and international development initiatives.
Shaolin master with an opponent
His legacy extends beyond the ring: He has trained and mentored numerous African wrestlers; he has promoted discipline, athletic excellence, and professionalism in wrestling; has supported the establishment of wrestling programs and training camps across Africa and he has also inspired cooperation among wrestling organizations to strengthen the sport on the African continent and beyond.
His retirement match is more than the conclusion of an outstanding in-ring career—it is a celebration of a pioneer whose influence will continue through the many wrestlers, coaches, and organizations he has inspired.
May the fans in Congo give Shaolin Master Nsimba Bafuka the standing ovation he has earned. His contributions to African professional wrestling will be remembered for generations, and his legacy as an eminent wrestler, trainer, and ambassador of the sport will continue long after this his final match.