Chance Mutuku has spent his life wrestling.

With opponents, with adversity and with his own self.

Born in Bukavu, nestled in the hills of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mutuku's voyage to Canada opened doors which once seemed unimaginable. Now, as a decorated wrestler, creative entrepreneur and community leader, he aims to push boundaries on and off the mat.

As Black History Month unfolds, the former Brock wrestler reflects not just on his own story, but on the broader legacy of Black excellence, perseverance and community. 
 
"I truly believe we are living Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s dream," Mutuku said. "Every day I wake up, I get to do what I love freely. To serve, lead and contribute to my community where I'm embraced based on the merit of my character. That's something I don't take for granted." 
 
Wrestling was Mutuku's first love, and he quickly proved to be a natural. A standout athlete, he earned a spot on the Canadian Junior National Wrestling Team and with the dynastic Badgers varsity wrestling team.
 
However, his career took an unexpected turn when a severe concussion forced him away from the sport for nearly seven years. 
 
"That moment seemed devastating, but it turned out to be a blessing in disguise," Mutuku said. "I had to embrace the difficulty, dig deep and push forward. Wrestling teaches you that. To fall down, get up, repeat."
 
That setback became a catalyst for his creative and entrepreneurial side. During his time away from competition, he founded BBBBlanc Studio, a design and branding company which serves the Niagara region. He also pursued a passion for music as a DJ and launched a podcast, Conversations with Chance Mutuku, using his platform to share inspiring stories.

"My background in wrestling and kinesiology helps me approach creativity differently," he said. "It's like jazz. There's an art and finesse to it all. Whether it's problem-solving in business or blending different styles as a DJ, everything connects."

Despite his success off the mat, Mutuku felt the pull of wrestling once more. This weekend, he will provide commentary for the 2025 Wrestling Canada Lutte U SPORTS Invitational Championships, bringing his firsthand knowledge and passion for the sport to the broadcast.
 
In 2023, he made his return—just in time to compete at the Olympic trials, this time with a growing family cheering him on.

"As an athlete, I wear my last name on my singlet alongside the Canadian flag," he said. "It's an honour to represent not just myself, but my heritage and those who came before me." 
 
For Mutuku, Black History Month is about recognizing the past while actively shaping the future. That's why he's focused on creating opportunities for the next generation of Black athletes and creatives.

"Sometimes, all it takes is seeing someone who looks like you, who came from where you came from, to believe you can do it too," he said. "That creates self-sustaining communities where dreams can flourish."