In an exciting development for UFC fans, Ryan Spann is set to make his heavyweight debut against Waldo Cortes-Acosta at UFC Fight Night 254. This intriguing matchup is scheduled for March 15 at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas, marking a significant shift in Spann’s career as he transitions from light heavyweight to heavyweight competition.
Waldo Cortes Acosta will fight Ryan Spann at #UFCVegas104 on March 15th. (first rep. @realkevink) #UFC #MMA #UFCESPN #UFC2025 pic.twitter.com/eW1wpwOOYn
— Marcel Dorff 🇳🇱🇮🇩 (@BigMarcel24) December 17, 2024
Ryan Spann, with a record of 22-10 MMA and 8-5 UFC, recently revitalized his career by snapping a three-fight losing streak. He achieved this with an impressive first-round submission victory over seasoned fighter Ovince Saint Preux in October. This win has undoubtedly boosted Spann’s confidence as he prepares to face new challenges in the heavyweight division. Spann’s decision to move up a weight class follows a trend seen among fighters seeking new opportunities and challenges. His teammate at Fortis MMA, Kennedy Nzechukwu, successfully transitioned to heavyweight earlier this year, achieving a 2-0 record in the division. Spann will be looking to replicate his teammate’s success and establish himself as a formidable contender in the heavyweight ranks.
Waldo Cortes-Acosta, known as ‘Salsa Boy,’ enters this bout with an impressive record of 12-1 MMA and 5-1 UFC. The 33-year-old fighter is currently riding a three-fight winning streak, with notable victories over Lukasz Brzeski, Andrei Arlovski, and Robelis Despaigne. Cortes-Acosta aims to extend this streak to four wins against Spann. His recent performances have showcased his striking prowess and ability to adapt against diverse opponents, making him a dangerous adversary for anyone in the heavyweight division.
HEAVY SHOTS FROM WALDO CORTES-ACOSTA 🫣 #UFCSingapore pic.twitter.com/ruoBvIgmKB
— ESPN MMA (@espnmma) August 26, 2023
The clash between Spann and Cortes-Acosta promises to be an electrifying encounter. Spann’s grappling skills and submission techniques will be tested against Cortes-Acosta’s striking abilities and momentum. Both fighters are 33 years old and bring a wealth of experience into the octagon, adding depth and intrigue to this matchup.
Spann’s move to heavyweight could provide him with a fresh start and new opportunities to climb the ranks. However, adapting to the power and size of heavyweight opponents will be crucial for his success. On the other hand, Cortes-Acosta will look to capitalize on his recent successes and continue his ascent in the division.
This fight holds significant implications for both fighters’ careers and the broader landscape of the UFC heavyweight division. A victory for Spann could establish him as a rising contender in his new weight class, while a win for Cortes-Acosta would solidify his position as one of the division’s most promising fighters.
Moreover, this bout highlights the dynamic nature of MMA, where fighters often transition between weight classes to seek new challenges and opportunities. The outcome could influence future matchups and title contention scenarios within the heavyweight division.
As UFC Fight Night 254 approaches, anticipation builds around Ryan Spann’s heavyweight debut against Waldo Cortes-Acosta. This matchup not only promises an exciting clash of styles but also serves as a pivotal moment in both fighters’ careers. Fans can expect an intense battle as these two athletes vie for supremacy in the octagon.
