Exclusive | Robelis Despaigne Is Seeking Super Heavyweight Gold in Karate Combat “I’m here for my belt.”
The Olympics, the UFC, and now Karate Combat get to experience Robelis Despaigne. Starting his journey in taekwondo at just nine years old, Despaigne dedicated 15 years to Cuba’s national team. His career highlight came at the 2012 London Olympics, where he secured a bronze medal in the +80 kg category.
Robelis Despaigne
Despite his Olympic success, Robelis Despaigne grew disillusioned with the state of sports in Cuba and pivoted to mixed martial arts in 2019. Seeking greater opportunities, he relocated to Orlando, Florida, in 2022. It didn’t take long for the heavyweight to make waves in MMA—he won his first five professional bouts via first-round knockouts, establishing himself as a rising star.
The UFC took notice, signing him in December 2023. Robelis Despaigne’s promotional debut at UFC 299 on March 9, 2024, was nothing short of spectacular: an 18-second knockout of Josh Parisian earned him a Performance of the Night bonus. However, his UFC tenure proved brief. Subsequent losses to Waldo Cortes-Acosta in May 2024 and Austen Lane in October 2024 led to his release.
Undeterred, Despaigne quickly transitioned to Karate Combat, signing with the promotion in November 2024. Karate Combat appears to be a natural fit for the former Olympic medalist as he embarks on the next chapter of his career. In an exclusive interview with Robelis Despaigne, we discuss his career and Karate Combat. He will be making his debut on Thursday, December 19 at Karate Combat 51, live on YouTube at 6pm ET.
Robelis Despaigne Interview
What initially drew you to Taekwondo, and how did it shape your early life in Cuba?
I really love practicing taekwondo because I like martial arts movies.
Winning an Olympic bronze medal is an incredible achievement. What do you remember most about that experience in London 2012?
It was something unforgettable, very dreamed of and very worked on. I remember feeling it as the greatest dream of every athlete.
After such a long and successful Taekwondo career, what motivated you to transition to MMA, and how challenging was it to adapt to the new discipline?
It was quite a challenge to adapt, especially because of the floor work, but I really like it and I’m willing to work hard to become the biggest heavyweight in the world.
What was the most valuable lesson you learned from your UFC stint, both in victories and in defeats?
I learned that all the work is little compared to how hard an MMA fighter must work and I am willing to work even harder and achieve my return to UFC.
How did the UFC experience prepare you for the next phase of your combat sports career in Karate Combat?
I think having had the privilege of being in the UFC, which is such a big company, prepares you for any scenario. I’m ready for a great show. I thank Karate Combat for this opportunity and I’m here for my belt.
Karate Combat has a unique rule set and presentation. How have you adjusted your training to fit this style?
I love this style of fighting. I am very excited to be here at Karate Combat. I always followed these events and said I would like to fight here. God’s plan is perfect and I am going all out for my first KO in Karate Combat.
What are your goals in Karate Combat, both short-term and long-term?
To be the Super Heavyweight Champion.
As someone who has competed in multiple disciplines, what advice would you give to young martial artists looking to transition between sports?
Don’t be afraid of change, in the end it’s a fight all the same. And the challenge is fun.
Cuban athletes often face unique challenges when competing internationally. What has your experience been, and what message would you share with aspiring Cuban athletes?
I hope you enjoy the process and continue working hard to raise the name of Cuba.
Let’s build the perfect fighter. In your mind who has the best kicks? The Best Punches? Best Speed? And the best power?
The best kicks: Robelis Despaigne
The Best Punches: Alex Pereira.
Best Speed: Ryan Garcia.
The best power: Francis Ngannou.
