Heavyweight Contenders Curtis Blaydes and Waldo Cortes-Acosta Targeted for Noche UFC 4

The matchup would pair two ranked heavyweights looking to rebound and stay in the title picture.
A major heavyweight matchup appears to be on its way to the UFC. According to a report from MMA Junkie reporter Danny Segura, the promotion is working on a bout between Waldo Cortes-Acosta and Curtis Blaydes. The fight would take place at Noche UFC 4 on Sept. 19. Both heavyweight contenders find themselves in similar situations, as they are looking to rebound after losing their most recent fights.
Fiery Heavyweight Clash Coming to Noche UFC 4
Although the UFC has yet to officially announce the bout, a fight between Cortes-Acosta and Blaydes would be an intriguing addition to the heavyweight division, as both contenders occupy nearby spots in the rankings. Currently sitting at No. 6, "Salsa Boy" saw his three-fight winning streak — all by knockout, including a victory over Derrick Lewis — come to an end after a unanimous decision loss to Alexander Volkov.
Now, the Dominican looks to return to winning ways and keep climbing the rankings during Noche UFC 4.
Curtis Blaydes Looking to Rebound at Noche UFC 4 Sept. 19
Blaydes, meanwhile, is currently ranked No. 8 in the division and is also coming off a defeat. The last time the former interim title challenger stepped into the Octagon, "Razor" lost to Josh Hokit via unanimous decision. Since 2023, Blaydes has experienced mixed results, compiling a 2-3 record during that stretch.
With both fighters coming off defeats, the matchup could play an important role in reshaping the heavyweight rankings. A victory would put either man back in the conversation among the division's top contenders.
Noche UFC is Back Sept. 19
For the fourth consecutive year, Noche UFC returns in September. The series of events was created by the promotion to celebrate Mexican Independence Day and traditionally features several Mexican fighters or athletes of Mexican heritage.
Noche UFC's inaugural edition took place in 2023 and was headlined by Alexa Grasso and Valentina Shevchenko.



