Overview
- Multiple outlets report the heavyweight fight is planned for May 9 at Prudential Center in Newark, pending official UFC confirmation.
- Brazilian reporter Leo Guimaraes first reported the targeted booking, which other MMA outlets have since echoed.
- The winner could position for a title shot as the division awaits clarity on champion Tom Aspinall and possible rematch plans involving Ciryl Gane.
- Waldo Cortes-Acosta enters on three straight finishes, including a knockout of Derrick Lewis at UFC 324, and has won eight of his past nine.
- Alexander Volkov has won five of his past six, most recently taking a split decision over Jailton Almeida after a debated loss to Ciryl Gane.