Cortes-Acosta vs Lewis
Prepare for the earth to shake on Saturday, January 24, 2026. The T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, plays host to a collision of giants at UFC 324. In what pundits are calling the biggest fight in heavyweight history, the rising Dominican-American star Waldo “Salsa Boy” Cortes-Acosta (16-2-0) faces the knockout artist Derrick “The Black Beast” Lewis (29-12-0). Both fighters are renowned for their devastating power, guaranteeing that this bout will be an absolute slugfest.
The Unstoppable Rise of Salsa Boy
Waldo Cortes-Acosta is not just another fighter; he is a phenomenon. Originally a professional baseball player, he has transitioned seamlessly into a dominant force in the Octagon. Currently, he stands as the only Latino contender in the heavyweight division since the era of Cain Velasquez. Consequently, the entire Latino community is rallying behind him. His 2025 campaign was nothing short of historic. “Salsa Boy” tied the record for the most bouts in a calendar year, stepping into the cage five times. Remarkably, he took his most recent fight against Shamil Gaziev on just three days’ notice. Despite the lack of preparation, he dominated, securing a first-round knockout and a Performance of the Night bonus.
A Title Shot on the Horizon
The stakes for this matchup could not be higher. Derrick Lewis serves as the ultimate gatekeeper to the upper echelons of the division. However, Cortes-Acosta is hungry for gold. A victory here undoubtedly places the Dominican powerhouse in prime position for the UFC Heavyweight Championship title. While Lewis brings veteran experience and terrifying strength, Cortes-Acosta brings unmatched momentum and aggressive precision.
Historic Broadcast on Paramount Plus
This event also marks a major turning point for fans watching at home. For the first time in history, the main card will be broadcast live on Paramount Plus. Do not miss a second of the action. Will the “Black Beast” land the final blow, or will “Salsa Boy” dance his way to a title shot? The world will be watching.