Belal Muhammad, already recognized by his moniker “The Bully,” aims to showcase one of his less-celebrated abilities when he steps into the octagon against Jack Della Maddalena in the main event of UFC 315.
Known primarily for his relentless pressure, exceptional cardio, and conditioning, the reigning welterweight champion has continuously worked on enhancing his skills. While he`s developed numerous techniques for his initial title defense, Muhammad stated that demonstrating his striking capabilities is high on his list of priorities.
Muhammad revealed that he has been concentrating on his hands extensively in recent bouts, likening his boxing technique to that of renowned champion Canelo Alvarez. He voiced a strong ambition to test these skills against Della Maddalena and assert himself as the top boxer in the UFC`s welterweight division.
He commented that regardless of skepticism or criticism from others, his team consistently improves and finds ways to succeed.
Muhammad`s previous assertions about his striking, particularly the comparison to Canelo, have often drawn sarcastic reactions from fans.
However, Muhammad remains unfazed by this. He views being prepared for any challenge an opponent presents as a fundamental part of being the UFC`s leading welterweight.
His upcoming adversary, Jack Della Maddalena, is a proven knockout artist possessing significant power in both hands, a style that typically prompts opponents to avoid prolonged striking exchanges.
Muhammad acknowledges Della Maddalena’s dangerous striking but pledged not to back down from exchanges on the feet. Yet, he hinted that his opponent might lack the same confidence in other aspects of the fight.
Muhammad explained his strategy involves identifying and targeting his opponent`s weaknesses. He believes he has various ways to defeat Della Maddalena, stating he can outperform him in striking, kickboxing, or wrestling. In his view, Della Maddalena`s path to victory is narrow, primarily relying on a knockout.
He confidently stated that Della Maddalena cannot outlast, outwork, outmuscle, or outgrapple him. Muhammad emphasized his focus on self-improvement, building upon past performances to present an enhanced version of himself rather than solely concentrating on the opponent.
Originally, Muhammad was preparing for his first title defense against undefeated contender Shavkat Rakkhmonov, a fight where he was the underdog.
Unfortunately, Rakhmonov sustained an injury, leading to Della Maddalena stepping in as a replacement and causing a shift in the betting odds, making Muhammad the favorite.
Despite now being favored, Muhammad stated that his primary goal remains constant, regardless of who his opponent is.
He mentioned he rarely considers the odds, preferring to maintain a balanced approach and focus on the immediate challenge. While recognizing that opponents, like Della Maddalena after a year off, will evolve, Muhammad expressed utmost confidence in his current state, feeling better than ever.
Muhammad conveyed a heightened level of excitement and hunger, partly attributing it to a six-week break after missing a scheduled fight. This time off reignited the drive he felt while pursuing his career aspirations and the championship. He stressed that he is never satisfied and is now focused on overcoming Della Maddalena, who represents his next challenge.
To defeat Della Maddalena at UFC 315, Muhammad is preparing for all scenarios, though he admitted that achieving a knockout finish might finally earn him that new nickname.
He concluded by asserting that a knockout win would be highly significant, potentially allowing him to adopt a new handle like “Canelo boxing” or “Canelo hands.”
