Waldo “Salsa Boy” Cortes-Acosta
The heavyweight division has a dangerous treat to any UFC contender. At UFC 324 in Las Vegas, Waldo “Salsa Boy” Cortes-Acosta proved his hype is undeniably real. He secured a massive TKO victory over fan-favorite Derrick Lewis. This main card bout at T-Mobile Arena delivered the action fans hoped for.
For Latinos around the world, the unstoppable Dominican-American from Phoenix has done it again! In a mind-blowing victory, he gave doubters a rude awakening. Will we see ‘Salsa Boy‘ in a title fight this year? And will this star make it all the way to the White House?
A Clash of Heavyweight Styles
Entering the cage, the stakes were incredibly high for both men. Cortes-Acosta, ranked No. 7, looked to cap off a stellar run after a breakout 2025 campaign. Conversely, “The Black Beast” aimed to prove he is still elite at age 41. Lewis had won three of his last four, including knockouts of Tallison Teixeira and Rodrigo Nascimento. Although Lewis opened as a +270 underdog on FanDuel, his knockout power remained a constant threat. However, “Salsa Boy” utilized superior speed to dismantle the veteran.
How The Fight Unfolded
The first round showcased tactical precision from the rising star. Lewis displayed surprising agility with high kicks, yet he relied too heavily on his signature right hand. In contrast, Cortes-Acosta established his jab early. He controlled the distance effectively, frustrating Lewis with movement. Even as the crowd erupted with “USA” chants to fire up Lewis in Round 2, Cortes-Acosta remained calm. He landed a stiff leg kick that visibly bothered Lewis. The veteran missed several wild power shots, and Cortes-Acosta made him pay dearly.
The Highlight Reel Finish
The end came suddenly in the second frame. Cortes-Acosta slipped a lunging strike and fired a precise counter right hand. The shot landed flush, dropping Lewis instantly. It looked reminiscent of a classic Anderson Silva counter. Referee Jason Herzog stepped in at 3:14, officially sealing the TKO win. Lewis, who had eyes on a White House fight in June, was left stunned on the canvas.
What Comes Next
Following the biggest win of his career, Cortes-Acosta wasted no time looking forward. He immediately called out Curtis Blaydes, eager to secure a title shot in 2026. “Salsa Boy” wants to silence the critics. If this performance is any indication, the heavyweight landscape has officially shifted.
