UFC 315 showcased an intense welterweight title matchup between champion Belal Muhammad and fifth-ranked contender Jack Della Maddalena. This thrilling event took place on Saturday, marking Muhammad's first title defense since winning the 170-pound belt by defeating Leon Edwards at UFC 305 last July. Muhammad entered the octagon with an impressive undefeated streak that has lasted since January 2019. Meanwhile, Della Maddalena found himself on a remarkable 17-fight winning streak after bouncing back from two early career losses in 2016.
As the fight began, Della Maddalena immediately pressed forward. Muhammad retaliated with a strong kick to the body. Their exchanges started early, with Della Maddalena landing a right hand and Muhammad responding with a series of leg kicks. Muhammad displayed his precision by landing counter punches, including a clean right hand which started tilting momentum in his favor. The first round saw Muhammad effectively connect with a counter left and a body shot, while Della Maddalena managed some solid strikes too. The round concluded with MMAWeekly scoring it 10-9 for Muhammad.
In the second round, Della Maddalena took control of the center of the cage. Muhammad's jab proved effective, partially landing a head kick as Della Maddalena retaliated with solid right-hand shots. The intensity escalated as Della Maddalena delivered body kicks while exchanging strikes with Muhammad. Muhammad again showcased his wrestling skills by attempting a takedown, but Della Maddalena quickly returned to his feet. Despite the pressure, MMAWeekly scored this round for Della Maddalena based on his striking output.
Moving into the third round, Della Maddalena continued to press forward, and both fighters exchanged jabs and right hands. Muhammad consistently utilized his jab while Della Maddalena displayed excellent head movement, avoiding significant damage. Muhammad connected with combinations and a well-timed kick, but Della Maddalena remained resilient, landing effective counters. As the round progressed, Muhammad sought another takedown, which Della Maddalena defended well. MMAWeekly scored this round 10-9 for Della Maddalena.
Entering the fourth round, both fighters took center stage, aware of the close scorecards. Muhammad initiated pressure early, landing a few clean shots and exchanging jabs with Della Maddalena. The action intensified with both fighters trading punches, and Muhammad secured some offense, even pursuing a takedown. Della Maddalena demonstrated strong defense and countered with a right hand. As the round wrapped up, MMAWeekly awarded it to Muhammad 10-9, reflecting his aggressive strategy.
Heading into the final round, Della Maddalena's corner communicated that they were ahead on the scorecards, while Muhammad's corner urged him to claim the round for victory. Muhammad opened the fifth round with relentless pressure, and both fighters exchanged left hands. A knee strike opened a cut under Muhammad's left eye, but he quickly regained composure, executing a takedown with just over three minutes remaining.
Once on the ground, Muhammad controlled the half guard position, delivering precise short punches and elbows. Della Maddalena, demonstrating exceptional grappling skills, managed to scramble back to his feet. As the fight neared its conclusion, Muhammad landed significant strikes from various positions. Although both fighters were visibly fatigued, they continued to trade blows. MMAWeekly ultimately scored the round 10-9 for Della Maddalena, but with some uncertainty about the outcome.
This exhilarating bout at UFC 315 exemplified not only the athletic prowess of both fighters but also showcased the suspense and unpredictability that MMA fans cherish. The dedication and skills demonstrated by Belal Muhammad defending his title against the relentless Jack Della Maddalena will surely be remembered as a significant chapter in UFC welterweight history.
