Robelis Despaigne, a Cuban fighter, achieved a decisive victory in his second karate combat match by knocking out his opponent, Brazilian Marcos Brigagao, in just 12 seconds. The former taekwondo competitor showcased his impressive form once again during the Karate Combat 52 event held on Friday in Miami, where a significant number of attendees were Cuban fans cheering for their hero.
Veteran fighter Brigagao was no match for the speed and power of Despaigne's punches. The Brazilian fell four times, and although he seemed ready to continue, the referee deemed it necessary to halt the fight. In celebration, the "Big Boy" wrapped himself in a Cuban flag and paraded around the pit as cheers of "Cuba, Cuba" echoed from the spectators.
This marks Despaigne’s second consecutive win in karate combat, following his December knockout of Polish competitor Dominick Jedrzejczyk in a mere four seconds, setting a new record in the sport and marking a historic debut for the Cuban athlete.
Having earned a bronze medal in taekwondo at the 2012 London Olympics, Despaigne transitioned to mixed martial arts in 2022. After remaining undefeated in four bouts, he signed with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) in December 2023. His debut was remarkable: an 18-second knockout against American Josh Parisian at the Kaseya Center in Miami in March of the previous year. However, after suffering two losses, the UFC decided to release him in October.
Key Insights into Robelis Despaigne's Career
Who did Robelis Despaigne defeat in his latest karate combat match?
Robelis Despaigne defeated Brazilian fighter Marcos Brigagao in just 12 seconds.
What is Robelis Despaigne's background in martial arts?
Robelis Despaigne is a former taekwondo athlete who won a bronze medal at the 2012 London Olympics and transitioned to mixed martial arts in 2022.
How did Robelis Despaigne's debut in the UFC turn out?
His debut in the UFC was historic as he knocked out American Josh Parisian in just 18 seconds.