UFC 324 – Waldo Cortes-Acosta vs Derrick Lewis: Preview & Betting Tips
The heavyweight showdown between Waldo Cortes-Acosta and Derrick Lewis is one of those matchups that perfectly captures the unpredictability of MMA’s most volatile division.
Cortes-Acosta (16-2) enters the fight as a steadily rising heavyweight who has impressed many with his composure and consistency. Unlike many fighters in this division, Cortes-Acosta doesn’t rely solely on power.
Lewis (29-12, 1 NC), however, exists in his own category. Few fighters in MMA history possess the kind of one-punch knockout power that Lewis carries. Even when he appears to be losing a fight, tired, or pinned against the cage, Lewis is always a threat to end things instantly.
Tale of the Tape
Waldo Cortes-Acosta – Odds 1.33 (Sky Bet)
Record: 16-2
Age: 34
Height: 6ft4
Reach: 78”
Weight: Heavyweight
Stance: Orthodox
Derrick Lewis – Odds 3.25 (Sky Bet)
Record: 29-12, 1 NC
Age: 40
Height: 6ft3
Reach: 79”
Weight: Heavyweight
Stance: Orthodox
Waldo Cortes-Acosta vs Derrick Lewis: Analysis
What stands out most about Cortes-Acosta is his discipline. He doesn’t chase knockouts recklessly, and he understands how to win rounds. Against less experienced heavyweights, that approach has allowed him to dominate minutes even when finishes don’t come. His cardio is solid, his defence is improving, and he rarely puts himself in positions where he can be easily countered. On paper, those traits make him a difficult matchup for someone like Lewis.
Lewis’ style has never been about volume or technical polish. He is patient, sometimes to a fault, but he trusts his power completely. He is comfortable losing minutes if it means waiting for the right moment to explode.
Stylistically, the early rounds are critical. Cortes-Acosta will want to establish his jab, stay mobile, and avoid prolonged exchanges in the pocket. If he can keep Lewis at range and force him to reset repeatedly, he can pile up points and potentially wear Lewis down.
Cortes-Acosta vs Lewis: Prediction & Betting Tips
Lewis’ path to victory is far simpler and far more dangerous. He needs one opening. Whether it comes from a mistimed jab, a lazy exit, or a moment of overconfidence, Lewis only needs a fraction of a second to land a fight-ending shot.
Cortes-Acosta has shown he can maintain output across three rounds, while Lewis has historically slowed in fights that extend beyond the opening exchanges. If the fight reaches the later stages, Cortes-Acosta’s consistency and conditioning could become increasingly important. However, even a tired Lewis remains dangerous.
The logical pick favours Cortes-Acosta’s cleaner technique, better pace, and ability to win rounds. The dangerous pick leans toward Lewis’ unmatched knockout power and proven ability to defy expectations. And for that reason, I’m taking Derrick Lewis to win in round 1 at odds of 7.00 (Sky Bet).
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