Montreal, May 10, 2025 — In what could go down as a career-defining performance, Jack Della Maddalena announced himself as the new king of the UFC welterweight division, defeating Belal Muhammad via unanimous decision in the main event of UFC 315 at Montreal’s Bell Centre.
This wasn’t just another win for the undefeated Australian — it was a masterclass in composure, precision, and striking intelligence. Della Maddalena not only beat a seasoned veteran in Muhammad, who was riding an 11-fight unbeaten streak, but did so by largely nullifying his opponent’s most dangerous weapon: relentless pressure wrestling.
Technical Brilliance Meets Grit
From the opening bell, Della Maddalena took command of the center of the octagon, displaying calm poise and crisp combinations. His jab and distance management kept Muhammad at bay, preventing early takedown attempts and setting the tone for the fight. By the time Muhammad was able to implement his grappling in the later rounds, Della Maddalena had already banked enough control time and significant strikes to stay ahead on the scorecards.
According to unofficial fight metrics, the Australian landed close to 200 strikes over five rounds — a testament to his conditioning, volume, and tactical discipline. Despite late pressure from Muhammad, who closed strong with multiple takedowns and heavy shots, Della Maddalena weathered the storm, adjusted defensively, and pushed the pace when it mattered most.
What This Means for the Division
Della Maddalena now stands at a perfect 8-0 in the UFC, having risen through the ranks in less than three years. His previous win — a stunning comeback knockout against Gilbert Burns — showcased his ability to thrive under adversity. But UFC 315 was different. This was a mature, calculated performance that screamed championship pedigree.
With his title win, a new narrative is forming: Can Della Maddalena become one of the defining fighters of this era?
There’s already talk of a super fight with UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev. The storyline writes itself — Makhachev is close friends and training partners with Belal Muhammad, and Della Maddalena has vowed to “get one back” for fellow Aussie Alexander Volkanovski, who fell short against Makhachev twice. A potential showdown would not only pit two champions against each other, but also continue the Australia vs. Dagestan saga that has captivated UFC fans in recent years.
For Belal Muhammad: A Step Back, Not the End
Muhammad’s loss, while disappointing, doesn’t erase the remarkable run that got him here. The former champion put together wins over top contenders like Vicente Luque, Sean Brady, and Leon Edwards, and developed a reputation for durability and grinding pressure.
While the loss snaps a streak dating back to 2019, Muhammad remains a top-tier contender. His ability to rally in the championship rounds — landing takedowns, threatening with ground-and-pound, and nearly closing Della Maddalena’s eye — is proof he still belongs among the elite.
What Fans Can Learn: The Evolution of Modern MMA
This fight was a clinic in how modern MMA has evolved. Della Maddalena’s footwork, defensive awareness, and variety in striking were straight out of a new-age playbook — one where fighters are no longer just specialists, but complete martial artists. His ability to stay upright against an elite wrestler, while remaining dangerous with his hands for 25 minutes, sends a clear message to the division: he’s not a momentary champion — he’s a long-term problem.
The Co-Main Event: Shevchenko Survives a Scare
In the co-main event, Valentina Shevchenko defended her women’s flyweight title in a razor-thin decision over rising contender Manon Fiorot. This marks the first successful defense in her second stint as champion and extends her legendary legacy in women’s MMA.
While Fiorot pushed the pace and challenged Shevchenko more than most expected, the veteran’s experience and timing gave her the edge. The bout further validated Fiorot as a future titleholder, and possibly set the stage for a rematch down the road.
The Final Word
UFC 315 will be remembered not just for crowning a new champion, but for signaling a power shift in the welterweight division. Jack Della Maddalena’s rise is proof that talent, timing, and tactical growth are the formula for success in today’s UFC. With a potential superfight looming and a fresh rivalry brewing, fight fans should keep their eyes firmly locked on what comes next.
Image – Getty Images
