UFC Washout Robelis Despaigne Signs With Karate Combat

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Photo by Mike Roach/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images

“Big Boy” has a new home.

Two weeks ago, Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) Heavyweight Robelis Despaigne was released after his loss to Austen Lane at UFC Vegas 99, which took place inside the UFC Apex in Las Vegas. It was his second consecutive loss, and it was another stinker of a fight.

Today (Mon. Nov. 11, 2025), Karate Combat announced on its Instagram that Despaigne has signed with their promotion.

“We’ve signed Robelis Despaigne to our heavyweight division and he will be debuting at KC51.

Robelis has an insane track record with all his professional fights ending with a first round KO and with Robelis being a taekwondo Olympic Medalist winner he will surely bring something to the pit we havn’t seen before

Welcome Robelis, we’re excited to have you in KC”

Check out the announcement below:

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A post shared by Karate Combat (@karatecombat)

While Despaigne was ultra disappointing inside the Octagon other than his UFC debut at UFC 299, there is still talent there. His signing with Karate Combat makes all the sense in the world, and he will thrive there, no doubt. Expect more viral knockouts (like this one).

“Big Boy” has no opponent yet but will debut at Karate Combat 51 in December.

Source: 
https://www.mmamania.com/2024/11/11/24294195/former-ufc-heavyweight-super-prospect-dud-signs-with-karate-combat-robelis-despaigne