Cédric Doumbé, on vacation in Dubai, found himself fighting with UFC superstar Islam Makhachev. Soon the return for “The Best”?
Cédric Doumbé is back… at least in appearance. After several months of absence from the rings due to injuries, the Frenchman made a name for himself in Dubai by meeting Islam Makhachev, UFC welterweight champion and pound-for-pound number one, i.e. all categories combined. Not for an official fight, fortunately for the Franco-Cameroonian a priori, but for a relaxing and… sporting moment.
On the program: a few matches of padel to stretch yourself, followed by a short wrestling duel with Makhachev. A daring idea, since the Dagestani, protégé of the legendary Khabib Nurmagomedov, is deemed invincible in this exercise. The Frenchman, for his part, seemed a little far from his ideal weight, but the attitude was there: smiles and friendly provocations, in pure Doumbé trashtalk style.
Mdddrr Doumbé who fights with Makhachev
pic.twitter.com/aAkTg1GKpP— Nano🇩/ TSAKE PROPRAY🚂
December 27, 2025
When will we return?
Even if no return date is set, this appearance makes you want: Doumbé is on the move again and slowly testing his limits. MMA fans can already look forward to seeing “The Best” again soon at the PFL, probably even more motivated after this unexpected face-to-face with one of the best fighters in the world.
Cédric Doumbé’s last appearance in official combat dates back to 2024 and a victory by knockout against the American Jaleel Willis. Before that, there was this highly publicized disqualification during the fight against Baysangur “Baki” Chamsoudinov due to the presence of a thorn in his foot. The rematch is still eagerly awaited by French MMA fans, especially after the recent defeat of “Baki” against Jordan Zebo, Doumbé’s painkiller not so long ago…
