Waldo Cortes Acosta is a rising star in the UFC heavyweight division, flaunting a notable record of 13 wins and just 1 loss. Originally a semi-professional baseball pitcher, he shifted to mixed martial arts in 2015, quickly developing his striking and grappling skills. Since making his UFC debut in October 2022, he has secured a four-fight winning streak, displaying his striking accuracy and physical advantages. His path reveals more about his dedication and future potential in the sport.
Early Life
Waldo Cortes-Acosta initially pursued a career in baseball during his youth, displaying his athletic talents as a semi-professional pitcher for the Cincinnati Reds organization.
His early life included a strong focus on sports, which laid the foundation for his competitive spirit.
In 2015, he made a considerable change from baseball to mixed martial arts, where he began training diligently to develop his skills in striking and grappling.
This shift marked the beginning of his path in combat sports, eventually leading him to become a notable figure in the MMA world.
Family Life
Waldo Cortes-Acosta, known as “Salsa Boy,” maintains a private family life, with limited public information available about his loved ones.
While specific details about his immediate family are not disclosed, it is clear that Waldo’s commitment to building a successful UFC career is deeply rooted in his desire to provide for them.
His path from semi-professional baseball to mixed martial arts demonstrates not only his dedication to his profession but also his strong sense of responsibility towards his family.
Career
Waldo Cortes-Acosta, also known as “Salsa Boy,” takes pride in an impressive professional MMA record of 13 wins and just 1 loss. He made a notable entry into the UFC on October 29, 2022, and has quickly established himself with a four-fight winning streak.
Cortes-Acosta is recognized for his striking capabilities, averaging 5.76 noteworthy strikes landed per minute with a striking accuracy of 49%. His physical attributes, standing 6’4″ tall with a reach of 78 inches, play an essential role in his effective striking and defensive techniques within the heavyweight division.
Prior to his MMA path, he exhibited his athleticism as a semi-professional baseball pitcher, but he shifted into combat sports training in 2015, ultimately earning titles as the LFA heavyweight champion and RUF amateur champion.
Net Worth
As of now, Waldo Cortes-Acosta’s net worth is estimated to be $0 USD, with reported earnings from his MMA career also at $0.
However, with a professional record of 13 wins and 1 loss, a recent TKO victory against Ryan Spann on March 15, 2025, and a #15 ranking in the UFC, Waldo Cortes-Acosta has the potential to considerably increase his earnings in future fights.
Given his current four-fight winning streak, Waldo Cortes-Acosta is well-positioned to negotiate better contracts, which could improve his financial prospects as he continues his career in the UFC.