Jack Della Maddalena shocked the world last night, defeating Belal Muhammad in a thrilling five-round battle at UFC 315 in Montreal to claim the welterweight title. The fight, a main event clash witnessed by 19,786 roaring fans, saw Maddalena utilize his striking prowess to overcome Muhammad’s persistent pressure. He landed the more significant strikes, effectively neutralizing Muhammad’s takedown attempts, and ultimately securing a unanimous decision victory with scores of 48-47, 48-47, and 49-46.
This victory marks a significant moment in Maddalena’s career. The Perth, Australia native, now boasting an impressive 18-2 record, showcased his skill and resilience throughout the grueling contest. His victory was even more impressive considering his late substitution into the title fight following Leon Edwards’ withdrawal from the original matchup with Shavkat Rakhmonov’s injury.
Muhammad, entering the fight on a double-digit win streak, surprisingly focused his efforts on striking in the early rounds. This strategy ultimately proved ineffective against Maddalena’s superior striking accuracy and range control. It wasn’t until the fourth round that Muhammad finally attempted a takedown, but by then, Maddalena had already established a clear advantage.
The win has significant implications for the welterweight division. Lightweight champion Islam Makhachev has publicly stated his intention to challenge Della Maddalena for the 170-pound title should Muhammad lose, setting the stage for a potential two-division champion. With his impressive performance and newly acquired title, Della Maddalena is poised to become a major force in the UFC, solidifying his place as a top contender in the welterweight division.
The co-main event also saw Valentina Shevchenko successfully defend her flyweight title, dominating her opponent Manon Fiorot in a commanding performance. UFC 315 proved to be a night of exciting matches and unexpected outcomes, leaving fans buzzing with excitement and anticipation for the future of the sport.
