Top UFC Contender Saves UFC Qatar Matchup Just 3 Weeks Post-Fight
Waldo Cortes-Acosta, a leading heavyweight contender, is set to fight at UFC Qatar this Saturday. He will compete on short notice, replacing Serghei Spivac in a highly anticipated matchup against Shamil Gaziev. This fight marks Cortes-Acosta’s fifth appearance of 2025.
Overview of UFC Qatar
UFC Qatar will host its first event in the country, closing a nine-week stretch of continuous UFC events leading to December’s cards. The main event features a critical lightweight battle between Arman Tsarukyan and Dan Hooker.
Cortes-Acosta Steps in on Short Notice
Cortes-Acosta confirmed his participation via social media, just three days after the announcement. With a current ranking of #6 among UFC heavyweights, he is on a strong comeback path.
- Current Ranking: #6 Heavyweight
- Fight History in 2025: Five fights scheduled
- Recent Performance: Victories over Ryan Spann and Serghei Spivac, and a knockout of former PFL champion Ante Delija.
Shamil Gaziev’s Opportunity
Shamil Gaziev is ranked #11 among heavyweights and was originally set to face Spivac. This matchup against Cortes-Acosta provides him with a chance to elevate his ranking. Gaziev joined the UFC in 2023, turning heads with a “Performance of the Night” bonus in his debut.
- Previous Fights:
- Lost to Jairzinho Rozenstruik in his second UFC fight.
- Defeated Don’Tale Mayes by decision and knocked out Thomas Petersen.
UFC Qatar Fight Card
The event features a total of 14 fights, showcasing various talented fighters. Key bouts include:
- Main Event: Arman Tsarukyan vs. Dan Hooker
- Co-Main Event: Belal Muhammad vs. Ian Machado Garry
- Volkan Oezdemir vs. Alonzo Menifield
- Jack Hermansson vs. Myktybek Orolbai
- Featured Fight: Waldo Cortes-Acosta vs. Shamil Gaziev
This matchup promises to be a significant highlight of UFC Qatar. Fans can expect an exciting night filled with action as top contenders vie for supremacy.
