Zimbabwean karateka Tangayi Mighty Mhlanga came second in the World Fighting Kyokushin Tournament (WFKO) in Spain over the weekend.

The reigning African Champion defied odds by competing in the middleweight category of the Grand Prix Barcelona against European fighters Sergei Braun (Germany), Daniel Sanchez (Spain), and Adrian Aguilera (Spain).

Sanchez won gold whilst Braun claimed third place.

Mhlanga, who represented Africa by virtue of scooping gold medal in South Africa, that earned him the first place to represent Zimbabwe and Africa at the prestigious tournament.

The organizers of the tournament placed the brightest, most experienced and titled fighters (Sanchez and Braun) into different preliminary fights of which Tangayi Mhlanga was paired with Sanchez.

Mhlanga’s mentor Sensei Samson Muripo congratulated him for his courageous performance and bringing a medal to Africa.

The 2013 crowned Sportsmen of the Year said he was confident that Mhlanga leave a mark in Spain.

“Congratulations to our fighter who proved to be a great force to reckon with in Barcelona. Our 25-year-old Brother came second in the WFKO Grand Prix an achievement l believe is just his highlights of the greater things he is capable of achieving in future.

“Zimbabwe has a lot of young talent like him and I continue to pray that we have great opportunities to show the world what great fighters we are,” he said.

The seasoned karateka and 2009 gold medallist continued: “We are happy for the young man who was crowned the African Champion earlier this year in Johannesburg. I am happy to see such young karatekas getting opportunities at a very young age.

“I can confidently say the World Championship title which l was crowned as the first African in 2009 will not end with me.

“My heart smiles seeing my students showing great promise and l believe they are going to achieve even more. Long live So-Kyokushin Karate,” he said