MMA Fight Preview: Ryan Spann (22-10) vs. Waldo Cortes-Acosta (12-1)

The upcoming MMA match between Ryan Spann and Waldo Cortes-Acosta at UFC Fight Night 254 on Saturday, March 15, 2025, is set to be an electrifying showdown.

Fighter Overview

Ryan Spann (“Superman”)

Record: 22-10-0

Height: 6’5″

Weight: 205 lbs

Reach: 79″

Stance: Orthodox

Striking Accuracy: 40%

Takedown Accuracy: 35%

Submission Average: 1.7 per 15 minutes

Waldo Cortes-Acosta (“Salsa Boy”)

Record: 12-1-0

Height: 6’4″

Weight: 260 lbs

Reach: 78″

Stance: Orthodox

Striking Accuracy: 48%

Takedown Accuracy: 60%

Submission Average: 0.2 per 15 minutes

Recent Form

Ryan Spann

Spann has shown a knack for ending fights early, with a significant portion of his 22 wins coming within the first round. His recent victory over Ovince Saint Preux illustrates his ability to leverage both striking and grappling.

Waldo Cortes-Acosta

Cortes-Acosta steps into the octagon riding a wave of momentum with a straight-up win against Despaigne, showcasing his endurance and striking prowess. His recent performances, marked by a higher Strikes Landed per Minute (SLpM) and solid defense, hint at his capability to handle whatever comes his way.

Key Statistics

Strikes Landed per Minute (SLpM): Cortes-Acosta 5.64, Spann 3.30

Striking Defense: Cortes-Acosta 52%, Spann 43%

Takedown Defense: Cortes-Acosta 60%, Spann 50%

Matchup Breakdown

Offense vs. Defense

In terms of offense, Cortes-Acosta’s edge in striking accuracy and volume sets him apart in a stand-up fight. His ability to consistently land over five and a half significant strikes per minute at a forty-eight percent accuracy rate gives him a clear advantage.

On the defensive side, Spann’s grappling skills emerge as a critical factor. With an average of over one takedown per fifteen minutes and a higher submission rate of one point seven per fifteen minutes, Spann’s strategy will likely revolve around bringing the fight to the mat.

Ryan Spann                                        + 145

Waldo Cortes-Acosta                     – 175

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, March 14, 2025