Cédric Doumbè is one of the biggest stars of French MMA, there is little doubt. But from there to having decision-making power in one of the most prestigious organizations in the world, we probably didn’t see it coming.
This Saturday, December 14, during the PFL European finals, “The Best” will take on a new role, outside the cage. Installed in the front row, he will have the chance to attend four Franco-French fights and to decide the future of the fighters within the American league, with or without a contract.
The concept is reminiscent of “Dana White’s Contender Series”. Launched in 2017, this show allows young talents to shine in front of the boss of the queen organization in the hope of signing a contract. Several stars, who are currently shining in the big leagues, have been there such as Sean O’Malley, Jamahal Hill or Bo Nickal. Cédric Doumbè will therefore have the difficult task of having such a sharp eye, and of unearthing the champions of tomorrow.
𝘿𝙊𝙐𝙈𝘽𝙀 𝘿𝙀𝘾𝙄𝘿𝙀𝙎 📑✍️ @CedricDoumbe will oversee FOUR all-French bouts at #PFLLyon on Saturday 14th December, awarding PFL contracts to the outstanding performances at the LDLC Arena!
Can PFL Europe and Doumbé unearth the Next Generation of French MMA talent? Make… pic.twitter.com/V8iHD4Rgx6
— PFL Europe (@PFLEurope) November 14, 2024
“I am proud to be French and I am the best in MMA. So when the PFL asked me if I wanted to organize Doumbé DecidesI said: of course, let’s bring more French athletes into the organization and show the world why we are the best country for combat sportsconfided Cédric Doumbè. Lyon, I promise you that the athletes I have selected will come to put on a show not only for me, but for all of you. I can’t wait, let’s go. »
The first six fighters are now known. Two Ile-de-France residents are among the candidates for a contract: Karrar Hammodi and Mehdi Saada. Member of the Multi Boxing Club of Persan, in Val-d’Oise, the first has eight victories in fourteen fights in the heavyweight category. He will face Marseillais Badr Medkouri, who has a record of seven victories and two defeats.
The second, who trained at the MMA Factory but now trains in Abu Dhabi, is a bantamweight (-61 kg). He will challenge Mahio Campanella, fighter from Carcassonne, who has a similar record of six victories. Finally, a fight between two very young talents will also take place under the watchful eye of Cédric Doumbè.
Marseillais Salvo Giudice will make his professional debut against Lyonnais Lionel Kamooze, only 18 years old. For them too, this clash is a huge chance to take a giant step forward in their career.
