UFC 324 featured a highly anticipated heavyweight bout between Derrick Lewis and Waldo Cortes-Acosta at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The fight was a critical match for both athletes, especially given their recent performances and aspirations for the future.
Fighter Profiles: Derrick Lewis vs. Waldo Cortes-Acosta
Waldo Cortes-Acosta, known as “Salsa Boy,” entered the octagon with a record of 16 wins and 2 losses. He has become one of the most active heavyweights in the UFC, achieving a notable 4-1 record in 2025. His rise to fame includes back-to-back knockout victories over Shamil Gaziev and Ante Delija in November, just weeks apart. He aimed to secure a title shot in 2026 with a win at UFC 324.
Derrick Lewis, also known as “The Black Beast,” boasted a record of 29 wins, 12 losses, and 1 no contest. As he approached his 41st birthday, Lewis was determined to fight for a chance at the White House in June. He came into the fight following three wins in his last four matches, including consecutive knockouts of Tallison Teixeira and Rodrigo Nascimento.
Fight Highlights
The match began with both fighters feeling each other out. Cortes-Acosta landed early strikes, showing his agility and control, while Lewis aimed for powerful punches. The exchanges highlighted the contrasting styles of both fighters.
Round Analysis
- Round 1: Cortes-Acosta maintained pressure, outscoring Lewis with techniques such as jabs, while Lewis attempted to land heavy shots.
- Round 2: Cortes-Acosta delivered a decisive counter right, knocking Lewis down and following up with relentless ground strikes. The referee intervened, stopping the fight.
The official result declared Waldo Cortes-Acosta the winner by TKO in the second round at 3:14. After the fight, Cortes-Acosta expressed his desire to face Curtis Blaydes, citing the need to address remarks made by his competitor.
Betting Odds and Future Implications
Leading up to the event, betting lines favored Cortes-Acosta, who was positioned at -335, while Lewis was seen as the underdog at +270. The match was crucial for both fighters’ rankings and their aspirations within the heavyweight division.
Conclusion
With this victory, Waldo Cortes-Acosta affirmed his status in the UFC heavyweight rankings, while Derrick Lewis remains a prominent figure in the octagon. The implications of UFC 324 will certainly impact the landscape of the heavyweight division moving forward.
