Despite already having the moniker “The Bully,” Belal Muhammad, the reigning UFC Welterweight Champion, is eager to demonstrate another facet of his game – his striking, particularly his boxing – when he steps into the octagon against Jack Della Maddalena in the main event of UFC 315. He sees this as an opportunity to add to his reputation by highlighting an often-underappreciated skill.
While widely recognized for his relentless pressure, exceptional cardio, and conditioning, Muhammad continuously works to enhance his fighting arsenal. Although he values all his tools, showcasing his hand speed and technique is a high priority for his first title defense.
Muhammad revealed his recent focus on boxing, drawing inspiration from multi-time champion Canelo Alvarez. He stated, “For myself, especially these last couple of fights, I’ve been using my hands a lot… I’ve been using the Canelo boxing. I want to put it to the test.” His goal is to prove he is the division`s top boxer, undeterred by skepticism from fans.
The welterweight champion remains unfazed by any potential criticism, emphasizing that his primary focus is on being fully prepared for every challenge an opponent like Della Maddalena might present, including the Australian`s well-documented knockout power.
Acknowledging Della Maddalena`s dangerous striking abilities, Muhammad confidently asserted he would not avoid standing and trading shots. However, he believes his opponent lacks the diverse skillset he possesses in other aspects of mixed martial arts.
“Whenever you go into a fight, you obviously look up the opponent’s weaknesses,” Muhammad explained. He believes he can defeat Della Maddalena through various strategies: outstriking him, out-kickboxing him, or out-wrestling him. In contrast, he sees Della Maddalena having essentially one primary path to victory – a knockout.
Muhammad is certain Della Maddalena cannot match his endurance, work rate, physical strength, or grappling ability. His philosophy centers on constant self-improvement, aiming to present a superior version of himself in every fight. This upcoming bout is no exception, with Muhammad focused solely on his own evolution rather than solely his opponent`s game.
Belal Muhammad`s initial preparation for his first title defense was against the undefeated Shavkat Rakhmonov, a fight where Muhammad was positioned as the underdog. Due to an injury, Rakhmonov was replaced by Jack Della Maddalena, causing the betting odds to shift in Muhammad`s favor.
Muhammad insists that neither the opponent change nor the betting odds alter his fundamental mission. He remains grounded and focused on the immediate challenge, understanding that every fighter, including Della Maddalena who has been sidelined for over a year, will likely have made improvements. However, Muhammad feels he is currently performing at his peak, both physically and mentally.
A previous fight cancellation last December, which led to six weeks off, served to rejuvenate Muhammad, reigniting the hunger and drive that propelled him to pursue and ultimately capture the title. He stated, “We’re never satisfied,” constantly seeking the next objective and viewing Della Maddalena as the necessary obstacle he must overcome.
Achieving a finish against Della Maddalena at UFC 315 is a clear goal for Muhammad, particularly if it comes via knockout, which would help solidify the “Canelo hands” reputation he seeks.
Muhammad explicitly stated that a knockout victory would carry significant meaning for him, potentially paving the way for him to adopt the nickname “Canelo boxing” or “Canelo hands.”
