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Cédric Doumbé, the former GLORY welterweight champion, is set to make his second appearance in the PFL with high expectations for another show-stopping performance. The charismatic fighter, known for his dramatic flair, is eager to face undefeated prospect Baissangour Chamsoudinov on March 7 in Paris, building on the success of his sensational debut where he knocked out Jordan Zebo in just nine seconds.
In a recent interview on The MMA Hour, Cédric Doumbé addressed the skepticism surrounding his opponent and his decision to sign with PFL instead of the UFC.
"People are talking a lot of s*** because he looks like a wrestler," Doumbé remarked about Chamsoudinov, emphasizing his commitment to delivering another first-round knockout.
The 31-year-old Doumbé is recognized as one of the top welterweight prospects in MMA, and his debut in PFL became one of the most talked-about moments of 2023. The Frenchman's flamboyant walkout, leading a chant with French soccer superstar Kylian Mbappe, and the subsequent knockout generated massive buzz, with nearly 20,000 seats selling out in just 20 minutes for his upcoming fight at the Accor Arena.
Reflecting on his choice to join PFL over the UFC, Doumbé expressed satisfaction, stating,
"That makes me smile because they f***** up. They lost. So it is what it is, you know? Everything happens for a reason. I’m just doing my thing. Some people say that I’m better here."
Having more than 80 kickboxing fights under his belt, Doumbé acknowledges the reality of his age and future in combat sports. However, he remains focused on his partnership with PFL and casts doubt on a potential return to the UFC.
"Ninety percent no, because I’m not that younger fighter. I think I will not open the UFC door again," Doumbé declared.
Looking ahead, Doumbé envisions a future bout with former UFC champion Anthony Pettis and dreams of selling out France’s Parc des Princes. But before those grand plans, he must first overcome the challenge presented by the undefeated Chamsoudinov. Doumbé is confident in his abilities, stating,
"Even his wrestling is not enough to impress me. I think even on the ground, the grappling, I’m better than him."
As Doumbé prepares for his next PFL showdown, the anticipation is building, and fans are eager to witness another electrifying performance from the charismatic welterweight sensation.
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