In his second appearance at the Karate Combat heavyweight Grand Prix, the Cuban giant Robelis Despaigne knocked out Zach Pauga by way of a technical knockout, securing his position as the mandatory challenger to world champion Sam Alvey.
Without giving his opponent any room, Despaigne came out strong from the start and heavily punished Pauga during the first round at Karate Combat 55: "Last Man Standing", a one-night tournament in the heavyweight division held on July 18 in Miami.
The American's face was so battered that the doctor stopped the fight before the second round. It was a complete domination and yet another demonstration of the Cuban's destructive power.
The victory places Despaigne on the brink of glory: in his first fight in the tournament, he won by decision against Saulo Cavalari, but this time he made it clear that his true hallmark is controlled violence.
With his imposing physique and overwhelming rhythm, the former Olympic taekwondo medalist continues to amaze in his transition to the professional circuit.
Now, Despaigne will face Sam Alvey, a champion in two divisions and an emblematic figure of Karate Combat. But for the Cuban, names and titles are not intimidating.
He has already proven that he can adapt and excel with any style. The belt is at stake, and Despaigne is ready to seize it by force.
The Cuban arrived in the United States in 2022 and settled in Orlando, Florida, where he currently resides and trains for his career in MMA and Karate Combat.
Frequently Asked Questions about Robelis Despaigne's Rise in Karate Combat
How did Robelis Despaigne achieve his position to face Sam Alvey?
Robelis Despaigne secured his position as the mandatory challenger to world champion Sam Alvey by defeating Zach Pauga with a technical knockout in the "Last Man Standing" tournament of Karate Combat. This victory adds to his previous win against Saulo Cavalari, where he triumphed by decision, showcasing his ability to adapt and excel in the professional martial arts circuit.
What stands out about Robelis Despaigne's style in Karate Combat?
Robelis Despaigne's style is characterized by controlled violence and an overwhelming rhythm. With an impressive physique and taekwondo skills, he has shown destructive power in his fights, as evidenced by his quick victory in 12 seconds against Marcos Brigagao and his record of four seconds in his debut at Karate Combat.
What is Robelis Despaigne's history in combat sports before Karate Combat?
Before his foray into Karate Combat, Robelis Despaigne was a bronze medalist in taekwondo at the London 2012 Olympics. He began his transition to mixed martial arts in 2022 and, although he had a promising start in the UFC, he was released after two losses. Now, in Karate Combat, he has once again proven his worth with a series of impressive victories.
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