MMA Match Preview: Jack Della Maddalena (17-2, 7 UFC) vs. Belal Muhammad (24-3 1 NC, 15-3 UFC)
Date: May 10, 2025
Event: UFC 315
Venue: Bell Centre, Montreal, Canada
Division: Welterweight Championship (170 lbs)
Broadcast: ESPN+ Pay-Per-View
Fight Overview
The UFC welterweight title is on the line as Belal Muhammad (24-3, 1 NC, 15-3 UFC) defends his belt for the first time against Jack Della Maddalena (17-2, 7-0 UFC) in the main event of UFC 315. Muhammad, riding an 11-fight unbeaten streak, captured the title with a dominant decision win over Leon Edwards at UFC 304. Meanwhile, Della Maddalena, an elite striker from Australia, enters the biggest fight of his career after securing a title shot when Shavkat Rakhmonov was sidelined due to injury.
Fighter Profiles
Belal Muhammad (“Remember the Name”)
- Record: 24-3, 1 NC (15-3 UFC)
- Age: 36
- Height: 5’11”
- Reach: 72″
- Fighting Style: Pressure fighter with elite wrestling
- Key Strengths: Cardio, takedown control, striking defense
- Recent Fight: Won via unanimous decision against Leon Edwards
Muhammad is known for his relentless pace and suffocating pressure, systematically breaking down opponents over five rounds. His ability to mix striking with wrestling has led to victories over elite names like Gilbert Burns, Vicente Luque, and Stephen Thompson.
Jack Della Maddalena (“JDM”)
- Record: 17-2 (7-0 UFC)
- Age: 28
- Height: 5’11”
- Reach: 73″
- Fighting Style: Technical striker with knockout power
- Key Strengths: Precision boxing, counter-striking, durability
- Recent Fight: Won via knockout against Gilbert Burns
Della Maddalena is one of the most dangerous strikers in the division, boasting five UFC performance bonuses and a reputation for finishing fights. He has showcased his ability to adjust his game plan, securing wins via knockout, submission, and decision.
Statistical Comparison
| Fighter | Strikes Landed Per Minute | Striking Accuracy | Takedown Average | Takedown Defense |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Belal Muhammad | 4.84 | 52% | 1.88 per 15 min | 61% |
| Jack Della Maddalena | 5.98 | 47% | 0.21 per 15 min | 67% |
Muhammad has the edge in grappling, while Della Maddalena’s striking volume and accuracy could be the difference-maker.
Fight Breakdown & Prediction
1. Can Muhammad’s Pressure Overwhelm Della Maddalena?
Muhammad thrives in high-paced fights, using his cardio and wrestling to wear down opponents. If he can neutralize Della Maddalena’s striking, he could secure a decision win.
2. Della Maddalena’s Knockout Threat
Della Maddalena has one-punch knockout power, making him dangerous in early exchanges. If he lands clean, Muhammad could be in trouble.
FIGHT ODDS
Jack Della Maddalena + 160
Belal Muhammad – 190
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, May 9, 2025
