Waldo Cortes Acosta vs Derrick Lewis - AI generated fight pick

Waldo Cortes Acosta is the younger, fresher fighter at 34 compared to Derrick Lewis at 40, which is significant in the heavyweight division where aging tends to impact durability and speed. Acosta has a better overall defensive profile, with a 56% significant strike defense and 73% takedown defense, compared to Lewis' 41% and 53% respectively. Acosta's striking output is more measured and defensively sound, and he has a higher takedown accuracy (50% vs. Lewis' 26%), which gives him more options if the fight becomes tactical. While Lewis has much greater one-punch KO power and a long history of first-round finishes, his recent performances have been inconsistent and his takedown defense has been exploited by more technical fighters. Historically, fighters in their late 30s and early 40s with a brawler style and lower defensive stats have struggled against disciplined, volume-based strikers with good takedown defense. Acosta's recent form, consistency, and ability to avoid damage make him the more probable winner in a three-round fight, though Lewis always has a puncher's chance.