Robelis Despaigne may be new to MMA and the UFC, but he thinks he's not too far away from competing for the heavyweight title.
The undefeated prospect believes he will challenge for the UFC heavyweight championship in 2025. Despaigne (19-1 MMA, 1-0 UFC) is expected to defeat Waldo Cortez-Acosta (11-1 MMA, 4-1 UFC) at UFC on ESPN 56 in St. Louis on Saturday. and will likely win a few more this year. Put him in contention for the belt early next year.
“If everything goes according to plan, I think by early next year I will be fighting for the UFC heavyweight title, at least tentatively,” Despaigne told MMA Junkie in Spanish.
With UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones injured, Stipe Miocic on call, and interim champion Tom Aspinall's future up in the air, Despaignes hopes things will be resolved in time to get into the title picture. I'm here.
He believes Jones will defeat Miocic in his return bout, but predicts Aspinall will ultimately take the belt.
“It's a close race, but if it's a matter of momentum, I think Aspinall can come through and take the crown,” Despaigne said. “But we know the qualities that Jon Jones has, so he can always surprise.”
If Despaigne wins the UFC title, he will become the first Cuban fighter in UFC history. That would be something special for the Olympic bronze medalist in Taekwondo.
“For me, it is a dream to become a UFC champion and I am very proud.”
For more information on this card, visit MMA Junkie's UFC event hub on ESPN 56.
Check out the Hablemos MMA YouTube channel for Spanish-language videos and interviews with MMA Junkie Danny Segura. Be sure to visit the MMA Junkie Instagram page and YouTube channel to discuss this and other content with mixed martial arts fans.