Jack Della Maddalena Sees Emphatic Title Win Over Belal Muhammad
In an interview with Mike Bohn of MMAJunkie.com, Jack Della Maddalena expressed his belief that he will run through Belal Muhammad to secure UFC gold for the first time in his pro MMA career.
“I think I’m going to steam(roll) him,” Della Maddalena told MMA Junkie. “I think I can get the finish. That would be the icing on the cake, get a finish and start the championship reign.”
Maddalena was going to collide with Leon Edwards in the main event of a UFC Fight Night card in London before getting the call to face Muhammad. The welterweight challenger discussed the difference in preparing for Edwards and Muhammad.
“I think Leon and Belal are different opponents,” Della Maddalena said. “I think Leon is a good striker, and he’s probably happy to sit on his back foot where Belal comes forward and tries to go for the grappling. It’s a big change, but I’ve fought people that come forward and try to grapple me my whole career, so it’s no change for me.
“It’s the biggest opportunity, and I have 10 weeks to sharpen all the tools, and I’m looking forward to it.”
During the first UFC 315 press conference, Muhammad vowed to make Maddalena “Remember The Name” when the two clash. He said that Maddalena has gone from the “kiddie pool” to a shark tank. Time will tell if Muhammad can maintain his hold on the gold or if Maddalena can walk out of Montreal with the welterweight title.
