Belal Muhammad, one of the top contenders in the UFC welterweight division, has set his sights on a major career shift—moving up to middleweight to challenge the reigning champion, Dricus Du Plessis. But before that, he has a crucial title defense against Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 315 on May 10, 2025. With his sights set on becoming a two-division champion, Muhammad is preparing for one of the most pivotal moments of his career.

What does this move mean for his legacy? How does he plan to overcome Du Plessis? And what are the challenges awaiting him at middleweight? Let’s break it all down.

Belal Muhammad’s Road to the Top

Muhammad, known by his nickname “Remember the Name,” has established himself as one of the most formidable welterweights in the UFC. With an impressive record of 24-3-0 (1 NC), he has dominated the division through sheer grit, elite wrestling, and a strategic fight IQ.

His rise to championship status was no easy feat. After an unfortunate no-contest against Leon Edwards in 2021, Muhammad went on a dominant winning streak, defeating Gilbert Burns, Vicente Luque, and Sean Brady to earn his shot at the title. Now, as the reigning UFC Welterweight Champion, he looks to add another belt to his collection by moving up to middleweight.

But before he gets there, a tough test awaits him at UFC 315.

Belal Muhammad predicts he finishes Leon Edwards in their rematch: ‘It’s going to be the worst night of his life’ – MMA Fighting

UFC 315: Muhammad vs. Della Maddalena

On May 10, 2025, at the Bell Centre in Montreal, Canada, Muhammad will defend his welterweight title against Jack Della Maddalena, a rising star with a reputation for his knockout power and crisp striking.

Jack Della Maddalena: A Dangerous Challenger
Jack Della Maddalena has been tearing through the welterweight division, boasting a record of 17-2-0 with multiple highlight-reel finishes. The Australian striker is known for his precise boxing, devastating body shots, and relentless pressure inside the octagon.

While Muhammad’s wrestling and experience give him an edge, he cannot afford to underestimate Della Maddalena’s ability to end the fight with one well-placed punch.

Fight Breakdown: Key Strengths & Weaknesses

Striking: Advantage – Della Maddalena

Della Maddalena averages 6.74 significant strikes per minute with a striking accuracy of 53%—both higher than Muhammad’s stats.

Muhammad lands 4.39 significant strikes per minute with a 43% accuracy rate, making his striking solid but not his primary weapon.

Wrestling & Grappling: Advantage – Muhammad

Muhammad averages 2.00 takedowns per 15 minutes with a 35% takedown accuracy.
Della Maddalena has improved his takedown defense, but he is still vulnerable against high-level wrestlers like Muhammad.

Game Plan for Muhammad
Close the distance to avoid long-range striking exchanges.
Use his superior grappling to control the fight on the ground.
Drain Della Maddalena’s stamina and take him into deep waters.
With a win, Muhammad will cement his dominance at welterweight and gain momentum for his middleweight aspirations.

The Big Move: Muhammad Targets Middleweight Glory
After UFC 315, Muhammad plans to move up to 185 pounds and challenge middleweight champion Dricus Du Plessis. His ambition to become a two-division champion follows in the footsteps of Conor McGregor, Daniel Cormier, and Amanda Nunes, who have successfully conquered multiple weight classes.

But is this move realistic?

Dricus Du Plessis: The Middleweight King

Dricus Du Plessis, the current middleweight champion, has taken the UFC by storm with his aggressive fighting style and unrelenting pressure. He holds notable wins over Israel Adesanya, Robert Whittaker, and Jared Cannonier, proving he belongs at the top.

Du Plessis has already dismissed Muhammad’s challenge, stating:

“Belal Muhammad? I don’t even remember watching him fight. Has he ever knocked anyone out? UFC won’t even let him jump divisions like that.”

This verbal exchange has only fueled Muhammad’s determination to prove himself against one of the toughest middleweights in the world.

Challenges of Moving Up a Weight Class
Transitioning from 170 lbs to 185 lbs is no small task. Muhammad will face several challenges, including:

Increased Power from Opponents: Middleweights hit harder, and Muhammad will need to improve his striking defense.

Strength & Size Disadvantage: Many middleweights naturally walk around at 200+ lbs, giving them a significant size advantage.

Adjusting His Fighting Style: wrestling-focused fighters like Kamaru Usman have struggled at middleweight due to stronger opponents. Muhammad will need to refine his approach.

Muhammad’s Plan to Beat Du Plessis

Despite the odds, Muhammad remains confident in his ability to outwork and outwrestle Du Plessis. His potential game plan includes:

Relentless Wrestling: Du Plessis has shown weakness against strong wrestlers, and Muhammad will look to smother him on the ground.

Cardio Advantage: Muhammad is known for his high endurance and can push the pace into the later rounds.

Strategic Striking: While not a knockout artist, Muhammad will focus on volume striking to set up takedowns.

If executed correctly, this strategy could give Muhammad a path to victory against the middleweight champ.

Sean Strickland’s former opponent tells Dricus du Plessis he must make one major adjustment to win UFC 312 rematch

What This Means for the Welterweight Division
If Muhammad vacates the welterweight title, it opens the door for new contenders to claim the throne.

Potential Candidates for the Welterweight Title
Shavkat Rakhmonov: Undefeated and highly skilled, Rakhmonov is a top contender who was originally scheduled to fight Muhammad before injuries derailed the matchup.
Kamaru Usman: The former welterweight king may seek one final title run.
Colby Covington: Although aging, Covington remains a dangerous competitor.
The welterweight division would enter a new era, with fresh matchups and rising stars shaping the landscape.

Islam Makhachev’s Influence on Muhammad’s Decision

Interestingly, UFC Lightweight Champion Islam Makhachev has hinted at moving up to welterweight, which could create a unique situation between him and Muhammad.

Since both fighters are close friends and managed by Ali Abdelaziz, their respective career paths could impact each other. If Makhachev moves up to welterweight, it might influence Muhammad to commit fully to middleweight.

What’s Next for Muhammad?
Regardless of what happens at UFC 315, Muhammad’s future is bright. He has options at both welterweight and middleweight, giving him multiple opportunities for greatness.

Possible future fights for Muhammad:
Win at UFC 315 → Fight Du Plessis at Middleweight
Lose at UFC 315 → Stay at Welterweight for a Rematch or Fight Rakhmonov
Du Plessis Loses to Khamzat Chimaev? → Fight Chimaev Instead
No matter the scenario, Muhammad remains one of the most strategic fighters in the UFC, carefully planning his next move.

Final Thoughts
Belal Muhammad’s decision to pursue greatness at middleweight is an exciting development for UFC fans. While the road to becoming a two-division champion is filled with obstacles, Muhammad has proven time and time again that he thrives under pressure.

With an elite wrestling base, unmatched cardio, and a fearless mindset, Muhammad has a real chance at making history. But first he must defend his welterweight title against Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 315.

If victorious, the dream of “Belal Muhammad: UFC Double Champion” could become a reality.

Stay tuned for UFC 315 on May 10, 2025, to witness the next chapter in Muhammad’s career!