Robelis Despaigne, a fearsome heavyweight known for devastating knockouts, was recently seen sparring Torrez Finney, a middleweight significantly smaller (approximately a foot shorter and 80 lbs lighter), in a training video.
Despaigne has quickly built a reputation as a powerful knockout specialist in Karate Combat. Finney, conversely, is primarily a skilled wrestler and stands out as one of the smallest competitors in the middleweight division.
Finney secured his place in the UFC after making three appearances on Dana White`s Contender Series, where he earned quick finishes. He successfully won his UFC debut but will likely need a more impactful performance in his next outing to make a bigger impression.
Size Discrepancy in Training: Robelis Despaigne and Torrez Finney Work Out Together
A training video shared by UFC newcomer Torrez Finney on his Instagram stories featured Robelis Despaigne. Despaigne`s towering 6`9″ frame made Finney`s 5`8″ size appear remarkably small in comparison, highlighting the significant physical difference between the two fighters.
At one point in the footage, as Despaigne dips down, Finney attempts a jab towards his head. Finney had to stretch considerably just to get anywhere near reaching him. This training session is potentially more advantageous for Finney, offering him practice in dealing with middleweight opponents who typically hold a size advantage over him.
However, the precise benefits for Despaigne, who competes in the striking-focused discipline of Karate Combat, were less obvious to viewers. The unusual size difference displayed during their training rounds quickly attracted attention and sparked confusion on social media platforms.
Fans Puzzled by Despaigne vs. Finney Sparring Footage
Many online viewers seemed genuinely baffled by the video, questioning the practical benefits of such a sparring session for either fighter. Comments reflected this confusion, with one fan writing, “Not sure how this benefits either,” and another describing the drill as “absolutely pointless.”
While it`s not entirely unprecedented for fighters from significantly different weight classes to engage in light sparring, some commenters suggested that both athletes might actually stand to gain something valuable from training together.
One viewer offered this perspective: “They both need each other,” explaining further, “Despaigne needs that grappling help just like Torrez needs that striking help.”
Rupert Hartwell