UFC 315 is set to electrify Montreal as welterweight champion Belal Muhammad prepares to defend his title against Jack Della Maddalena on Saturday, May 10, 2025. The event will take place at the Bell Centre, with the main card kicking off at 3 AM on Sunday morning, May 11, 2025, following preliminary bouts starting at 10:30 PM UK time. This highly anticipated matchup marks Muhammad's first title defense after he claimed the belt from Leon Edwards at UFC 304 last summer.
Belal Muhammad, known for his relentless cardio and pressure fighting, is on an impressive 11-fight unbeaten streak. His journey to the title has been marked by hard work and dedication, culminating in a dominant decision victory over Edwards. However, Muhammad’s path to this title defense has not been without obstacles; he was originally scheduled to face Shavkat Rakhmonov at UFC 310 but had to withdraw due to injury.
On the other side of the octagon stands Jack Della Maddalena, a rising star in the welterweight division with a professional record of 17 wins and 2 losses. Della Maddalena is coming off a significant victory over former title challenger Gilbert Burns at UFC 299, which took place over 400 days ago. His striking prowess has earned him a reputation as a knockout artist, with 12 of his 17 wins ending in KO. Despite this, he enters UFC 315 as the betting underdog.
As the fight approaches, both fighters have been vocal about their strategies. Muhammad has expressed his desire to showcase his boxing skills, drawing comparisons to Canelo Alvarez. “For myself, especially these last couple of fights, I’ve been using my hands a lot,” he stated. “I want to put it to the test and have that moment where I go, ‘That’s why I’m the best boxer in the UFC.’” Muhammad aims to prove that he can finish fights, a point of contention as only three of his 15 UFC victories have come by stoppage.
In contrast, Della Maddalena’s striking ability is well recognized, and he is determined to capitalize on any openings Muhammad may present. “Jack is a dead man walking,” Muhammad declared during the ceremonial weigh-ins, showcasing his confidence ahead of the bout. While many predict that Muhammad will attempt to neutralize Della Maddalena’s striking with his wrestling, former champion Israel Adesanya has thrown his support behind Della Maddalena, predicting a knockout victory for the Australian. “F—— Jack Della Maddalena, ‘And New’, baby,” Adesanya said on his YouTube channel. “I believe in them things, man. Let’s go, Jack.”
Adesanya’s endorsement comes with a recognition of Muhammad’s significance beyond the octagon. The Palestinian-American champion has become a symbol for many, carrying the flag for Palestine during a time of turmoil. “Respect to Belal,” Adesanya noted. “I like what he fights for as well.” Muhammad’s representation of his heritage resonates deeply with fans, and regardless of the fight's outcome, Adesanya believes Muhammad will remain a champion for his community.
As the fight draws near, Julianna Peña, the UFC women's bantamweight champion, has also weighed in on the matchup. Training alongside Muhammad at VFS Academy, she expressed unwavering confidence in his abilities. “I think he’s going to win,” Peña said. “I don’t know a harder worker than Belal Muhammad. He deserves all of the good things that come his way because he is such a great person.” Peña believes that Muhammad’s work ethic and character will shine through in this title defense.
With the welterweight division stacked with contenders, including Ian Garry, who is predicted to be the backup fighter for UFC 315, the stakes are high for both Muhammad and Della Maddalena. Garry, currently ranked 6th in the division with a record of 16-1, is eager to secure his own title shot in the near future. Muhammad recognizes Garry as a potential future contender, stating, “He’s trying to put his name in the mix.”
As the anticipation builds for UFC 315, fans are eager to see if Muhammad can defend his title successfully or if Della Maddalena will pull off an upset and become the first Australian to win the UFC welterweight championship. The co-main event will feature women’s flyweight champion Valentina Shevchenko defending her title against Manon Fiorot, adding further excitement to the night. Shevchenko, who reclaimed her title from Alexa Grasso at UFC 306, faces a formidable opponent in Fiorot, who boasts an unblemished 7-0 record in the UFC.
The atmosphere in Montreal is electric as fight night approaches, with both fighters ready to leave it all in the octagon. The world will be watching as Belal Muhammad and Jack Della Maddalena clash for the welterweight title, each vying to etch their name in UFC history.
