Robelis Despaigne sets sight on UFC title: 'I'm very ambitious'

MIAMI – Robelis Despaigne’s MMA career is just getting going, yet the heavyweight prospect has no problem letting the world know his intentions.

Saturday, Despaigne (4-0 MMA, 0-0 UFC) makes his UFC debut on the preliminary card of UFC 299 against Josh Parisian (15-7 MMA, 2-4 UFC). The Olympic silver medalist in taekwondo, representing Cuba, hopes this is the beginning of his path to the UFC heavyweight title.

“Of course I want to be champion,” Despaigne told MMA Junkie in Spanish. “I’m very ambitious with my dreams. That’s my goal: Win the UFC heavyweight title and defend it multiple times.”

Despaigne debuts with only four professional MMA fights under his belt – which is a rare sight in the UFC. The 35-year-old understands he’s been fast-tracked to the UFC, but he thinks he’s more than ready for what’s to come.

“From the paths that I’ve seen, many people get to the UFC with eight or 10 fights. But I’ve had the privilege to get here in the UFC with only four fights,” Despaigne said. “Now I just have to show why I’m here.”

Despaigne is amazed to be debuting at UFC 299, one of the most stacked cards in recent years. Although to many this may add pressure, Despaigne is happy to be debuting in front of a Miami crowd that will have many Cubans present.

“I’m very happy and satisfied that I was able to get to this stage, the world of UFC,” Despaigne said. “I’m very happy to be among all these great names. I’ve gotten a chance to see more than half of the big names that make up this card. It’s always good to be surrounded by so many great figures.”

For more on the card, visit MMA Junkie’s event hub for UFC 299.