Alex Pereira and Robelis Despaigne Engage in Intense Sparring Session

UFC superstar Alex Pereira showcased his striking prowess during a sparring session on November 30, 2025, where he faced off against former UFC heavyweight and Olympic bronze medalist Robelis Despaigne. The session, which was captured on video, highlighted Pereira’s aggressive style as he delivered a series of powerful strikes against the towering Despaigne, who stands at an impressive 6 feet 7 inches.

Pereira, the reigning light heavyweight champion, demonstrated his striking skills by pushing the action throughout the round. He consistently advanced towards Despaigne, unleashing powerful punches despite the risk of counterattacks from his opponent. Despaigne, utilizing his reach advantage, effectively employed his jab to keep Pereira at bay and retaliated with a straight right hand, showcasing his own striking ability.

Despaigne’s Background and Transition to MMA

Robelis Despaigne, who transitioned to mixed martial arts (MMA) in June 2022 after a successful career in taekwondo, started his MMA journey with a remarkable record of 4-0. However, after joining the UFC, he faced challenges, finishing with a 1-2 record before being released from the promotion. Despite this setback, Despaigne remains a formidable competitor, drawing on his extensive martial arts background.

During the sparring match, both fighters exhibited mutual respect. Following their intense exchanges, they touched gloves, acknowledging each other’s skills and sportsmanship. As the round neared its conclusion, the action intensified, leaving spectators eager for more as the bell rang to signal the end of the session.

Potential Future Matchups

As fans speculate about the potential for Alex Pereira to move up to the heavyweight division, performances like this sparring session raise questions about how he would fare against larger opponents. The power and technique showcased by Pereira against Despaigne, who is known for his knockout ability, demonstrates his readiness for any challenge that may come his way.

In the world of UFC, where every training session can influence future matchups and rankings, both Pereira and Despaigne continue to prepare for their next steps in their respective careers. The intensity of their sparring session not only highlights their dedication to the sport but also excites fans about the potential matchups that lie ahead.