Canada’s UFC cards always bring surprises, and UFC 315 is no different with two title fights headlining the event.
The welterweight division takes center stage in the main event, as champion Belal Muhammad makes his first title defense against Jack Della Maddalena in Montreal, Quebec.
Challenger Della Maddalena, on a 17-fight win streak, faces a tough test against the well-rounded champion. In the co-main event, flyweight queen Valentina Shevchenko starts her second reign against France’s Manon Fiorot.
Former champion Alexa Grasso also competes against Natalia Silva, with title implications on the line. UFC 315 promises solid name value and potential for exciting fights.
The lineup for UFC 315 is graded at a B-.
170 pounds: (C) Belal Muhammad (-180) vs. Jack Della Maddalena (+145)
The welterweight title fight is expected to be a close one, with champion Muhammad showcasing his well-rounded skills against knockout artist Della Maddalena. Despite Della Maddalena’s power, Muhammad’s control and grappling may give him the edge over five rounds.
Pick: Muhammad
125 pounds: (C) Valentina Shevchenko (+110) vs. Manon Fiorot (-135)
Shevchenko’s grappling superiority may be the key to victory against the physically imposing Fiorot, who excels in kickboxing. Expect Shevchenko to use her striking and grappling to overcome the challenger.
Pick: Shevchenko
135 pounds: José Aldo (-210) vs. Aiemann Zahabi (+170)
Aldo, a legend in the sport, faces Zahabi in a striking matchup. Zahabi’s best chance is to control Aldo, but the Brazilian’s striking prowess may be too much for him to handle.
Pick: Aldo
125 pounds: Alexa Grasso (+200) vs. Natalia Silva (-250)
Silva, a rising star in the flyweight division, showcases her striking against former champion Grasso. Silva’s well-rounded skills and striking prowess may give her the edge in what promises to be an exciting matchup.
Pick: Silva
155 pounds: Benoit Saint Denis (-1200) vs. Kyle Prepolec (+725)
Saint Denis aims to bounce back from recent losses against Prepolec, who faces a tough challenge on short notice. Expect Saint Denis to come out strong and secure a victory in front of his home crowd.
Pick: Saint Denis
Preliminary notes
Exciting matchups on the preliminary card include Jasudavicius vs. Andrade, Bukauskas vs. Cutelaba, and Stirling vs. Erslan. With a mix of rising stars and experienced fighters, the prelims promise to deliver thrilling fights.
Overall, UFC 315 offers a mix of title fights, veteran matchups, and rising stars, making it a must-watch event for MMA fans.