In a clash that will be etched into UFC folklore, Jack Della Maddalena dethroned Belal Muhammad via unanimous decision to become the new welterweight champion at UFC 315 in Montreal on Saturday.
New King of the Welterweight Division
The Australian challenger came, saw and conquered in a five-round thriller that has ‘Fight of the Year’ written all over it. Both warriors bypassed the traditional feeling-out process, instead opting to trade leather from the opening bell in what became an instant classic.
Della Maddalena’s remarkable journey to the top now includes 18 consecutive victories, with his only career defeats coming in his first two professional bouts back in 2016. Talk about a comeback story!
Five Rounds of Pure Drama
The bout delivered non-stop action from start to finish. Early on, Della Maddalena’s precision striking gave him the edge, landing 23 significant strikes to Muhammad’s 16 in a fiery first round.
In the second frame, the Australian narrowly escaped what could have been a momentum-shifting takedown, instead flipping the script and keeping the champion on the back foot.
By the fourth round, fans were witnessing an all-out war. Muhammad finally secured his first takedown, only for Della Maddalena to quickly reverse the situation, pinning the champion against the cage in a display of remarkable resilience.
Championship Heart on Display
With his title slipping away, Muhammad entered the final round needing something special. Both fighters unleashed everything in their arsenal, each visibly wobbling the other in a breathtaking exchange.
Despite Muhammad’s desperate takedown attempts, Della Maddalena repeatedly found his way back to his feet. As the final seconds ticked away, the two warriors stood toe-to-toe, trading haymakers in a finish that brought the Montreal crowd to their feet.
What’s Next for the Division?
Muhammad’s reign ends without a successful defence after claiming the title from Leon Edwards at UFC 304 last July. While this setback stings, his 24-4 (1 NC) record ensures he’ll remain a formidable presence in the division.
For the new champion, exciting challenges await. Undefeated Shavkat Rakhmonov—who was originally scheduled to face Muhammad before an injury opened the door for Della Maddalena—looms as a potentially explosive first defence. Rising stars Sean Brady, Ian Machado Garry and Joaquin Buckley are also circling, ensuring a thrilling new chapter in the welterweight division.
With his explosive style and remarkable win streak, Della Maddalena’s reign promises to usher in a golden era for the 170-pound class.
