UFC Coach Islam Makhachov Identifies Key Error Committed by Belal Muhammad During UFC 315 Competition
Cashing in the Bonus
On a chilly Montreal night, UFC 315 unfolded with Jack Della Maddalena's triumphant victory over Belal Muhammad, securing the welterweight division's top spot via a unanimous decision. Javier Mendes, coach of lightweight champ Islam Makhachev, shared his thoughts on Muhammad's loss during an exclusive chat with Submission Radio:
"Most folks didn't back Muhammad to outdo Maddalena in the stand-up. But Muhammad tried to make us think otherwise."
Mendes wasn't shy in continuing: "I've got a sneaking suspicion that Muhammad intentional stuck to his feet, even though he coulda ducked into a grappling game where he'd've had the edge. It's a familiar blunder - forging ahead to prove a point."
As experts see it, Muhammad—renowned for his wrestling finesse—failed to capitalize on his key advantages, instead opting to engage in a game that favored Maddalena. Now, the Aussie champ could face off against Makhachev, who's aiming to conquer a second title in the UFC. Interestingly, Maddalena's streak of 18 back-to-back wins has earned him a reputation as a top-tier threat in the division.
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Bookmakers might question Muhammad's decision to focus on stand-up fighting against Maddalena in the next mixed-martial-arts events, given his wrestling finesse and the potential edge it could provide. With Maddalena's impressive win streak, sports enthusiasts would be eager to see how he fares against other top bookmakers' favorites, such as Makhachev.
