They are not getting married, 'despite' rumors to the contrary. [=even though there have been rumors saying they are getting married]
The law has yet to be passed, 'despite the fact that' most people are in favor of it.
They grew to love each other, almost 'despite themselves'.
(..) Get it in there! Aw! Come on! Get it away from him! Shoot it! And NYC continues to have fantastic luck... despite the poor play of Spencer Lewis. Sixty-four to fifty. A -point lead for NYC. Spencer has the ball, right side. He drives. Blows the easy layup. (..)1974 The Gambler