Matchmaking the Welterweight Division After UFC 315

UFC 315 wasn’t just another night of fights; it was a reshaping of the future, particularly in the Welterweight Division. While the card had its share of thrilling matchups, the most significant development came from Jack Della Maddalena’s dominant decision win over Belal Muhammad. In a fight many expected to be tightly contested, Maddalena’s clinical performance sent shockwaves through the rankings and left no doubt that the top of the division now has a new, undeniable presence. His win is the elephant in the room, undeniable, unavoidable, and likely the catalyst for a wave of changes across the 170-pound division.

Jack Della Maddalena vs. Islam Makhachev – For the Welterweight Championship

After a dominant performance in the main event of UFC 315, Jack Della Maddalena has firmly positioned himself as one of the top contenders in the Welterweight Division. His win over Belal Muhammad was a statement, one that sent ripples through the rankings and made it clear that he’s ready for the next challenge. That challenge could be none other than Islam Makhachev, who, after vacating the Lightweight Title, has set his sights on the 170-pound division. Makhachev’s wrestling and elite control make him one of the most dangerous fighters in any weight class, but Della Maddalena’s striking and relentless pace present a unique challenge. A fight between these two for the Welterweight belt promises fireworks and could set the stage for an epic new chapter in the division’s history.

Kamaru Usman vs. Joaquin Buckley – Coming Soon

Though Kamaru Usman’s time as the Welterweight Champion has come to an end, he remains one of the most respected fighters in the sport. Now, he takes on Joaquin Buckley, who has made an impressive transition to the Welterweight Division and remains undefeated since the move. Buckley, known for his knockout power, has proven that his ferocity is just as dangerous at 170 pounds as it was at 185. This matchup is intriguing for both fighters. For Usman, it’s about reasserting his place at the top after a series of close decisions and defeats. For Buckley, this is a chance to prove that his success in the new weight class wasn’t a fluke. With the timing and stakes of this fight, the winner could face Belal Muhammad, who has recently lost his title bid but remains one of the top contenders in the division. Given the circumstances, a matchup between the winner of this bout and Belal could be the next step for a title shot.

Sean Brady vs. Shavkat Rakhmonov – Title Eliminator

Based on how the Welterweight title picture is in flux, the winner of a fight between Sean Brady and Shavkat Rakhmonov could well be next in line for a title shot. Brady, who has one loss on his record, is a rising star in the division, known for his grappling and pressure-heavy style. Brady made a statement when he defeated Leon Edwards, showcasing his ability to hang with the best in the division. Rakhmonov, on the other hand, has impressed with his all-around skill set, combining relentless pressure and well-rounded techniques that have earned him an undefeated record. This matchup is a perfect title eliminator, as both fighters have the tools to challenge the best in the division. It’s a clash of styles that will undoubtedly deliver fireworks, and the winner will likely find themselves facing off for the belt in the near future.

Leon Edwards vs. Ian Garry – Strikers Paradise 

Leon Edwards, after suffering back-to-back losses to Belal Muhammad and Sean Brady, finds himself facing a fresh and hungry contender in Ian Garry. Garry, known for his crisp striking and technical skills, has been rising fast through the ranks with only one loss on his record, which came at the hands of Shavkat Rakhmonov. With his eye on the top, Garry is looking to prove that he’s ready for the elite of the division. For Edwards, this fight is crucial to reassert his place in the rankings and show that he can still compete with the best. Garry’s youthful aggression and drive for greatness could make this a tough challenge for Edwards, who will need to dig deep to maintain his standing. This stylistic clash could very well become a defining moment for the future of the Welterweight Division.