The Short-Notice Opportunity of a Lifetime
Waldo Cortes-Acosta just turned a massive gamble into a career-defining highlight. Stepping in on only two days’ notice, the American-Dominican heavyweight shattered expectations with a devastating first-round knockout over Shamil Gaziev at UFC Qatar. It was the second time this month that Cortes-Acosta delivered a brutal finish, solidifying himself as one of the most dangerous rising forces in the UFC heavyweight division.
A Brutal November Run
This incredible run began on November 1, when Cortes-Acosta scored a stunning knockout win against Ante Delija—despite suffering an eye poke that left his vision blurred. He fought through adversity that night. Then came the call that changed everything.
With Gaziev’s original opponent, Serghei Spivac, withdrawing during fight week, the UFC needed a warrior willing to jump in immediately. Cortes-Acosta (16-2 MMA, 9-2 UFC) didn’t hesitate. He hopped on a plane, traveled across the world to Doha, Qatar, and stepped onto the main card at UFC Fight Night 265 ready to throw hands.
Heavy Pressure, Heavy Hands
From the opening bell, Gaziev (14-2 MMA, 3-2 UFC) tried to bully Cortes-Acosta with constant forward pressure. Instead, he walked straight into danger. Cortes-Acosta cracked him early, dropping him with power that echoed through the cage. Gaziev stumbled back to his feet—damaged, but not yet done.
Seconds later, “Salsa Boy” uncorked a laser-sharp straight right hand, a perfect finisher that shut the lights off at 1:22 of Round 1. The referee stepped in as Cortes-Acosta celebrated one of the cleanest knockouts of 2025.
What’s Next for “Salsa Boy”?
Now 4-1 in 2025, Cortes-Acosta is on fire—and he’s not asking for a break. After delivering two knockouts in a single month, he wants to step right back into the Octagon before the year ends.
UFC fans are buzzing. Heavyweights are officially on notice.
Waldo Cortes-Acosta didn’t just seize the moment—he knocked it out cold.
