Welterweight Title Fight: Belal Muhammad vs. Jack Della Maddalena

Dan Hardy, Retired UFC Welterweight

How Muhammad Wins: Belal Muhammad is a well-rounded fighter with a balanced approach. He’s strong but not overly aggressive, ensuring he doesn’t gas out. His strategy will likely involve crowding Della Maddalena with wrestling, given Della Maddalena’s sharp striking. Hardy suggests Muhammad should work at a slightly longer range, utilize kicks to damage Della Maddalena’s lead leg, and target his arms to weaken his opponent’s striking power.

How Della Maddalena Wins: Jack Della Maddalena is renowned for his boxing skills in MMA. He needs to find space to strike without fear of takedowns. His finishing instinct is a significant advantage over Muhammad. Della Maddalena must maintain his fundamentals, work into the pocket, and avoid rising on his feet when throwing powerful strikes.

X Factor: Della Maddalena’s body punches could be crucial. If he can weaken Muhammad and slow him down, it will discourage takedown attempts.

Prediction: Muhammad to win by unanimous decision.

Betting Analysis (Ian Parker): Muhammad to win (-185). His cardio and wrestling are superior, making him the favorite despite Della Maddalena’s striking prowess.

Women’s Flyweight Title Fight: Valentina Shevchenko vs. Manon Fiorot

Angela Hill, UFC Strawweight

How Shevchenko Wins: Valentina Shevchenko is a versatile fighter with a strong takedown game. Her top pressure and ability to adjust between rounds make her a formidable opponent. Shevchenko’s experience and ability to stay calm under pressure will be key against Fiorot.

How Fiorot Wins: Manon Fiorot’s defensive striking and ability to keep opponents at bay with long combos and check hooks are her strengths. She needs to push the pace and utilize her counter-combos and footwork to keep Shevchenko from finding her rhythm.

X Factor: Shevchenko’s veteran experience and ability to adjust between rounds could be the deciding factor.

Prediction: Shevchenko to win by decision.

Betting Analysis (Ian Parker): Fiorot to win (-135). Her aggressive striking and takedown defense could pose significant challenges for Shevchenko.

Other Notable Fights

Men’s Bantamweight: José Aldo vs. Aiemann Zahabi Zahabi to win (+170). Zahabi’s solid game plan and underdog odds make him a compelling pick.

Women’s Flyweight: Alexa Grasso vs. Natalia Silva Silva to win by decision. Silva’s speed and versatility should give her the edge in this matchup.