Sport: MMA Country: United States Category: Match Previews

UFC re-signs Robelis Despaigne, sidelining potential match with Ngannou

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 24, 2026, 1:56 PM

Last updated Jul 24, 2026

UFC re-signs Robelis Despaigne, sidelining potential match with Ngannou

Summary

Robelis Despaigne has re-signed with the UFC, confirmed by his representatives on social media. This move effectively removes the possibility of a heavyweight matchup between Despaigne and Francis Ngannou, after both fighters secured knockouts under the MVP banner in May. Despaigne's previous stint in the UFC ended in 2024 after a 1-2 record. His striking skills remain strong, but concerns over his ground game may have influenced the UFC's decision to re-sign him. A date and opponent for Despaigne's return fight have not yet been announced.

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Market Watch

•Despaigne announced his UFC re-signing on July 24, 2026.
•Despaigne previously fought in the UFC, ending his run with a 1-2 record.
•Speculation suggests UFC re-signed Despaigne to prevent a fight with Ngannou.
•Both fighters had impressive knockout performances in May.
•Future opponent and fight date for Despaigne remain undecided.

Latest Updates

1:56 PMYahoo Sports — UFC re-signs Olympian Robelis Despaigne, probably to screw Francis Ngannou and MVP

What they're saying

"
Fight fans were calling for a heavyweight showdown between Francis Ngannou and Robelis Despaigne after both heavyweights picked up knockout victories under the MVP banner back in May. Unfortunately, that potential pairing is now off the table because Despaigne re-signed with UFC. His reps announced the signing on social media earlier this morning. Despaigne, who […]
— Yahoo Sports

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