On Saturday at UFC 316, heavyweight Waldo Cortes-Acosta achieved a career-defining victory, defeating Serghei Spivac by decision at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. This win marks an impressive milestone for Cortes-Acosta, who now holds a record of 14 wins and just one loss. Ranked #11 in the heavyweight division, this victory against the higher-ranked #7 Spivac positions Cortes-Acosta to break into the top 10 when the rankings update later this week.
Cortes-Acosta's path to this victory was paved with intense preparation, particularly focused on enhancing his ground game. After the fight, he shared insights into his training regimen, revealing the demanding nature of his workouts. "We would actually train to the point that I had nothing left in me," he explained to reporters, including Cageside Press. "My teammates had to physically assist me to get back up after training because I was completely exhausted. This happened regularly, about three to four times a week, and it was very intense. The end result was evident in the fight; I was able to come out with a win."
As he reflected on his achievement, Cortes-Acosta expressed immense pride in his performance and the culmination of his hard work. "I feel very proud of myself," he stated. "Everything we put into training, all the drills, and the preparation came together perfectly in the octagon." This notable success illustrates the effectiveness of his dedicated training and commitment to improving his skills.
Waldo Cortes-Acosta's journey to becoming a professional fighter is noteworthy. Originally a pitcher, he transitioned from baseball to mixed martial arts at the age of 25, after moving from the Dominican Republic to the United States. This shift in career paths required him to become proficient in various fighting disciplines. "I always tell people, I'm thankful for the support I receive, and I strive to give back the same level of encouragement. I remind everyone to keep pushing forward," he emphasized. "I didn't grow up fighting; I had to learn grappling, wrestling, and striking. Gradually, I started picking up new skills, and here I am today.”
This victory at UFC 316 not only solidifies Waldo Cortes-Acosta's position in the heavyweight division but also highlights his inspiring journey from baseball to MMA. As a fighter who understands the importance of hard work and determination, Cortes-Acosta serves as a role model for aspiring athletes. With a five-fight winning streak under his belt, the future looks bright for this promising heavyweight. Fans eagerly await his next matchup, hoping to see him continue to rise in the rankings.
For those interested in more insights, you can catch Waldo Cortes-Acosta's full post-fight press conference appearance from UFC 316 through various media channels, including Cageside Press.
