Waldo “Salsa Boy” Cortes-Acosta
The spotlight is back on Waldo “Salsa Boy” Cortes-Acosta, the Dominican powerhouse shaking up the UFC heavyweight division. Charismatic, confident, and explosive, Cortes-Acosta returns to action at UFC Vegas 110 on Saturday, November 1, live from the UFC APEX in Las Vegas, Nevada.
When he faces former PFL heavyweight champion Ante Delija, it won’t be just another fight. It’s personal. For Cortes-Acosta, it’s about protecting his home turf and proving that the only active Latino heavyweight in UFC history since Cain Velasquez is here to dominate. Cortes-Acosta VS Delia is the co-main event for Garcia vs. Onama.
From Contender Series to Heavyweight Contender
Cortes-Acosta’s rise has been nothing short of impressive. A professional since 2018, he earned his UFC contract with a first-round TKO on Dana White’s Contender Series. As of June 24, 2025, he’s ranked #6 in the UFC heavyweight division — a testament to his hard work and determination.
Before joining the UFC, Cortes-Acosta captured the LFA Heavyweight Championship, showcasing his knockout power and relentless drive. Each performance built his reputation as a dangerous finisher who never backs down.
Fighting Where He Belongs
Known for his rhythm, raw power, and contagious energy, Cortes-Acosta (14-2) feels right at home inside the UFC APEX, where he’s already made a name for himself.
“I consider this my house,” he told the media. “My family’s close in Arizona, my friends are here in Vegas, and I always feel comfortable fighting here. This is my territory, my home, and I need to protect my legacy.”
That passion and comfort have fueled some of his most dominant performances, making every fight in Las Vegas feel like a hometown showdown.
Respect Turns Into Rivalry
While Cortes-Acosta respects Delija’s career, respect only goes so far once the cage door closes. “I’ve seen Delija a long time ago before I turned pro. But this is my town, my home — and it’ll be a war this Saturday,” he promised.
Delija trains alongside UFC Champion Tom Aspinall, whose recent no-contest with Ciryl Gane stirred fan debate. Cortes-Acosta defended the champ, saying, “Eye pokes happen. It wasn’t intentional. Tom has every right to recover and come back stronger.”
Statements like these show Cortes-Acosta’s confidence and respect for the sport — qualities that make him both feared and admired.
A Defining Moment for “Salsa Boy”
For Waldo “Salsa Boy” Cortes-Acosta, UFC Vegas 110 is more than another night under the lights. It’s a mission driven by pride, power, and purpose. He’s not just fighting for a win — he’s fighting to defend his heritage, honor his people, and carry the legacy of Latino heavyweights forward.
A victory over Ante Delija could be career-defining. It would push him one step closer to title contention and cement his place among the elite of the heavyweight division. The rhythm, the fire, and the pride of the Dominican Republic all come together this Saturday when “Salsa Boy” steps into his house once again.
