UFC 315 is finally here, and we get to watch Belal Muhammad face off against Jack Della Maddalena in an exciting welterweight showdown! It’s going to be thrilling to see if Muhammad can hold off this rising star who’s ready to make a name for himself, or if we’ll witness the crowning of a new Welterweight champion. Don’t miss the thrilling matchup between Valentina Shevchenko and Manon Fiorot for the Women’s Flyweight title—get ready for a fantastic night of fighting! Tune in for the action and check out the great DraftKings promos for the event!
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Best Bet: Over 4.5 Total Rounds (-166)
Method of Victory: Belal Muhammad To Win By Decision (-115)
Belal Muhammad enters UFC 315 with an impressive 11-fight unbeaten streak, but his outstanding performances never get the credit they deserve since they don't come with highlight-reel finishes. After victories over tough opponents in Gilbert Burns, Sean Brady, and Stephen Thompson, he uncharacteristically lost a title opportunity against Colby Covington—a verdict that even his fiercest critics thought was unjust. Even if Muhammad may not wow those in attendance with knockouts, his tireless wrestling, excellent cardio, and unmatched consistency have made him a top contender among welterweights.
In turn, Maddalena presents the pop and power that may result in an electrifying upset. Nevertheless, Muhammad's ceaseless, ground-focused style must be able to keep him out in front. Given Maddalena's inactivity time out of the ring and the lack of ease for continuing for 25 minutes on the mat versus an unblockable wrestler, Muhammad should ride into town atop the horse with all the breaks and coast toward an overwhelming decision victory.
Best Bet: Fight to Go the Distance YES (-275)
Method of Victory: Manon Fiorot To Win By Decision (+120)
Valentina Shevchenko seemed unstoppable after her impressive victory in UFC 266 against Lauren Murphy, marking eight consecutive wins, including some truly spectacular knockouts. However, her journey took a turn after a closely contested split decision against Taila Santos, which sparked some discussion due to Santos testing positive for steroids. Following a submission loss and a draw with Alexa Grasso, questions emerged about Shevchenko's speed, although she did reclaim her title in their trilogy match at UFC 306.
At 37, Shevchenko might be starting to show some signs of wear from her incredible 20-year fight career as she gears up to face Manon Fiorot. Fiorot is a talented striker with a background in Muay Thai and kickboxing. While she’s less experienced, she remains undefeated in the UFC. She has shown impressive stamina but tends to focus more on grinding out decisions rather than producing thrilling finishes. This blend of youth and durability could present a real challenge for Shevchenko.
Both fighters are known for their strategic approach rather than jumping in recklessly, setting the stage for a battle of who can capitalize on key moments during the well-fought rounds. We’re in for an exciting showdown, and there’s a real possibility of a nail-biting decision that might lead to some post-fight discussions!
Best Bet: Aiemann Zahabi Moneyline (+154)
Method of Victory: Aiemann Zahabi To Win By Decision (+250)
Jose Aldo returns to the featherweight division after struggles cutting to bantamweight, raising concerns about his weight loss toll. While he found success at 135 pounds with impressive wins, his recent split-decision loss to Mario Bautista and weight-cutting issues cast doubt on his durability and conditioning for his first fight of 2025. The weight cut has affected his training and recovery, making his chances of success this weekend less certain.
His opponent, Aiemann Zahabi, has climbed the rankings with five consecutive wins, notably against veteran Pedro Munhoz. Although Aldo is a prominent name and arguably the most skilled striker Zahabi has faced, Aldo's declining cardio and weight issues may give Zahabi an opening. With Zahabi’s wrestling not central to his strategy, the matchup appears to be a striking battle that may favor Aldo early on but could change as Zahabi increases pressure later on.
Considering Aldo's technical skills and striking experience, he’s expected to control the early rounds. However, Zahabi’s resilience and steady output could turn the tide if Aldo starts to tire as the fight progresses. While the Canadian might not have the ability to finish Aldo outright, he could certainly make the match competitive if it goes the distance and Aldo struggles to keep up his pace.
Best Bet: Alexa Grasso +3.5 Spread (-150)
Method of Victory: Natalia Silva To Win By Decision (-160)
Alexa Grasso is making her return after nearly three years, but she won’t be facing Valentina Shevchenko this time. She’s trying to reaffirm her status as the best in the flyweight division. This performance will help show us whether she truly holds the top contender title or if she’s just had good luck against Shevchenko. While Grasso has grown since her strawweight days, her wrestling defense has posed challenges—she's been knocked down 33 times in the UFC and has made limited progress.
On the other hand, Natalia Silva, with an impressive record of 6-0 in the UFC and still unbeaten, could test that vulnerability. Although she has shown her striking skills in recent matches, Silva initially found success through submissions, and she might pivot to wrestling if her striking isn't enough to control the fight. Her most notable victory was against Jessica Andrade, but she hasn't yet faced anyone in the flyweight Top 5.
Ultimately, it will come down to Silva's ability to compete with the division's best. Grasso's experience and athleticism may give her an advantage, especially if Silva encounters difficulties on the ground. Should Silva begin to struggle, expect Grasso to seize the opportunity and secure the victory.
Best Bet: Over 1.5 Rounds (+150)
Method of Victory: Benoit Saint-Denis To Win By KO/TKO/DQ (+150)
Benoit Saint-Denis enters UFC 315 looking to bounce back from a couple of tough losses against Dustin Poirier and Renato Moicano. While these defeats came at the hands of elite fighters, he faced criticism for what some saw as making excuses and for turning down a last-minute fight against Mateusz Gamrot. Nevertheless, his impressive finishing ability—17 of 18 pro fights have ended within the distance—keeps him firmly in the spotlight of the lightweight division.
His opponent, Kyle Prepolec, returns to the UFC after four years, following two lackluster decision losses in 2019. Since then, the Canadian has made a splash on the regional circuit with a 4-1 record and is riding a three-fight winning streak. However, the strength of his recent competition has been questionable, and with nearly a year since his last fight, this raises some eyebrows, especially against a powerful finisher like Saint-Denis.
This matchup seems to favor Saint-Denis significantly. While Prepolec possesses knockout power and determination, he hasn’t secured any wins over top opponents. Saint-Denis is a strong favorite—unless the Canadian manages to pull off a surprising upset or withstands the pressure.