Belal Muhammad has widespread support heading into his first title defense against Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 315. Known for having some of the best cardio in the UFC, many believe that could be the key to his victory. Still, “Remember the Name” is focused on winning this fight and hopes to eventually defend his title against Shavkat Rakhmonov.
Rakhmonov built a dominant streak and high finishing rate, making himself the original front-runner for a title shot. However, injuries on both ends postponed the fight, first in December and again before UFC 315. As Belal Muhammad now gets ready to defend his belt against Jack Della Maddalena, he still believes Rakhmonov is worthy of a title opportunity. Speaking to MMA Fighting, the welterweight champ said:
“For me, if Shavkat is healthy, I think Shavkat deserves it. But I don’t really know what his injury is or how long he’s going to be out for. The train has to keep rolling. The train has to keep moving.”
Belal Muhammad says Shavkat Rakhmonov "deserves" next title shot but no guarantee he gets it after #UFC315:
— MMA Fighting (@MMAFighting) May 10, 2025
"I think Shavkat deserves it, but I don’t really know what his injury is or how long he’s going to be out for. The train has to keep rolling. "
(🎥 @DamonMartin) pic.twitter.com/Sjno7tqalO
Since Shavkat Rakhmonov hasn’t provided an update on his return, Muhammad leaves it to the UFC to decide the next title challenger. He praised Sean Brady for improving after their fight and pointed out that several contenders, such as Ian Machado Garry, Joaquin Buckley, and Brady, are all potential challengers.
UFC 315 Belal Muhammad vs. Jack Della Maddalena: Start Time, Streaming Details, And More
Muhammad will defend his welterweight title against Della Maddalena at UFC 315 on May 10, 2025, at Montreal’s Bell Centre. The co-main event will feature another exciting title fight, with Valentina Shevchenko putting her flyweight belt on the line against Manon Fiorot.
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The action kicks off with early prelims at 6:30 pm ET / 3:30 pm PT on ESPN+ and UFC Fight Pass, followed by prelims at 8:00 pm ET / 5:00 pm PT on ESPN and ESPN+. The main card begins at 10:00 pm ET / 7:00 pm PT, airing exclusively on ESPN+ PPV in the U.S. for $79.99. UK fans can catch the event on TNT Sports. With two major title fights lined up, this card promises to deliver a thrilling night for fight fans.
Also Read: Jack Della Maddalena Claims Alexander Volkanovski Was Moments Away From Stopping Islam Makhachev
