Overview
- Belal Muhammad will defend his welterweight title for the first time at UFC 315 on May 10 in Montreal, marking the UFC's return to Canada after nearly a decade.
- Jack Della Maddalena steps into the title fight as a replacement for Shavkat Rakhmonov, following a year-long recovery from a broken arm sustained at UFC 299.
- Muhammad, known for his relentless wrestling, has vowed to mix pressure, takedowns, and striking, while also claiming he could outbox Maddalena with his improved striking skills.
- Maddalena, guided by BJJ champion Craig Jones, has enhanced his grappling in preparation for Muhammad's wrestling-heavy style, while maintaining confidence in his striking precision and power.
- UFC legend Daniel Cormier has advised both fighters, emphasizing the importance of takedown defense for Maddalena and a balanced, high-pressure approach for Muhammad.