Welterweight champion Belal Muhammad, already known as “The Bully,” intends to demonstrate a different aspect of his game—his boxing prowess—when he defends his title against Jack Della Maddalena in the main event of UFC 315. While recognized for his relentless pressure, cardio, and conditioning, Muhammad has continuously worked to refine his skillset and is particularly eager to showcase his hands in this upcoming bout.
Muhammad stated that he`s been focusing significantly on his boxing, particularly drawing inspiration from Canelo Alvarez. He expressed a strong desire to test these improved striking skills on fight night, aiming for a moment that would prove him to be the premier boxer in the UFC`s welterweight division. Despite potential skepticism from fans, Muhammad remains confident in his ongoing development.
Undeterred by past criticism regarding his striking claims, Muhammad sees it as part of his role as champion to be prepared for any opponent`s strengths. He acknowledges Della Maddalena`s reputation as a powerful knockout artist but insists he will not shy away from striking exchanges. However, he believes Della Maddalena is not as prepared for the fight`s other dimensions as he is.
Analyzing the matchup, Muhammad feels he possesses multiple strategies for victory, including out-striking, out-kickboxing, or out-wrestling his opponent. He believes Della Maddalena, in contrast, has a more limited path to success, primarily relying on a knockout finish. Muhammad is confident Della Maddalena cannot match his endurance, work rate, grappling, or physical strength.
Muhammad emphasizes his focus on personal improvement rather than solely concentrating on his opponent`s weaknesses. He aims to present a better version of himself with each fight, building upon past performances. This approach was consistent even when his original opponent, Shavkat Rakhmonov, withdrew due to injury and was replaced by Della Maddalena.
Despite the change in opponent and the resulting shift in betting odds (he is now favored after potentially being an underdog against Rakhmonov), Muhammad asserts that he rarely considers the odds. He prefers to maintain a steady focus on the immediate challenge. Recognizing that every fighter evolves, he anticipates Della Maddalena will also show improvements but feels he is currently the best version of himself, fueled by renewed hunger and excitement after some time off.
Muhammad views Della Maddalena as the next necessary obstacle on his path and is determined to finish him at UFC 315. Achieving a knockout victory would hold special significance for him, potentially allowing him to adopt the nickname “Canelo boxing” or “Canelo hands” after proving his striking capabilities on the biggest stage.
Marcus Blakely