The world of mixed martial arts is notorious for its unpredictability, and the recent happenings at UFC 315 have only reinforced this notion. As Jack Della Maddalena snatched the welterweight title from Belal Muhammad, the implications of this victory extend well beyond the octagon. Della Maddalena’s ascent in the sport signals a new era in the welterweight division, creating ripples that could impact other weight classes. Meanwhile, Valentina Shevchenko’s second career title defense has positioned her once again as one of the foremost figures in women’s MMA. Their next steps are critical to the narrative arcs of their respective divisions.
A Surprising Challenger: Della Maddalena vs. Islam Makhachev
If someone predicted a face-off between Della Maddalena and Islam Makhachev in early 2025, they deserve an award for foresight. Makhachev, the reigning pound-for-pound king, and a well-established name in the UFC, does not seem like an immediate match for Della Maddalena, who is still in the process of defining his brand in the sport. But the UFC thrives on its ability to produce unexpected matchups, and there’s a palpable buzz around this potential collision.
The UFC often shies away from having champions jump weight classes before cleaning out their own, and Makhachev hasn’t yet done that in the lightweight division. Nonetheless, he has showcased exceptional skill and commitment to the organization, making a compelling case for a fight that fans are clamoring for. My preference would be to see Makhachev go toe-to-toe with Ilia Topuria; however, if the Della Maddalena fight comes to fruition, it could easily turn into a clash of styles that benefits both fighters in the long run.
The Next Move for Kamaru Usman
Kamaru Usman’s trajectory appears less chaotic than some of his welterweight peers, yet that does not mean he is devoid of challenges. Scheduled to face Joaquin Buckley in June, the stakes are high. The outcome of that bout will likely serve as a springboard for Usman, putting him back in the title conversation he aims to reclaim. There’s a palpable interest in a potential matchup with Muhammad, stemming from some earlier exchanges between the two fighters on Usman’s podcast. The narrative is strong here, and fans would be eager for the drama and tension accompanying such a contest.
However, Usman’s path is layered with complexities. Should he win, he may have to contend with an increasingly crowded title picture, particularly with contenders like Della Maddalena and Shavkat Rakhmonov making noise. While Usman deserves immediate recognition as a title challenger, the need for him to navigate the landscape intelligently could lead him into a more strategic matchup rather than a title shot right away.
Shevchenko’s Championship Landscape and the Potential for Showdowns
Valentina Shevchenko, an icon in her own right, continues to demonstrate why she belongs in the discussion of the greatest fighters in MMA history. After her impeccable defense at UFC 315, speculation mounts about a potential clash with Zhang Weili, the strawweight champion. This is not merely a fantasy; it’s high time for a champion-versus-champion showdown that fans have been waiting for. Given both fighters’ track records, such a match would not only be a crowd draw but also a defining moment for women’s MMA.
Alternatively, Natalia Silva stands as a formidable challenger in the 125-pound division, having shown promise that she can troublesome for even the top-tier fighters. There is also the lingering question of whether the UFC will treat Shevchenko’s next opponent as a serious threat or as an interim title defense. This decision could reveal much about how the organization perceives the landscape of women’s MMA and the drawing power of its champions.
The Uncertain Path for Other Contenders
For fighters like Ian Machado Garry, the picture is less clear. Despite serving as a backup in the title fight, he may not be positioned to leapfrog ahead of other contenders anytime soon. His past loss to Rakhmonov looms over any discussions regarding his next fight, leaving him in a state of ambivalence.
Meanwhile, for younger fighters like Maycee Barber, the stakes are high. A successful bout against Erin Blanchfield could place her back into title contention, but the UFC’s matchmaking will be crucial. A fight with Fiorot would not only be exciting but also a logical next step. The nuances of matchmaking will play a vital role in shaping the title landscape, navigating the expectations of fighters and fans alike.
In the ever-evolving saga of the UFC, every victory and loss spins a web of future possibilities that keeps both fans and fighters guessing. With names like Della Maddalena, Shevchenko, and others in the spotlight, how the organization orchestrates its next moves will be nothing short of captivating. The anticipation of future bouts underscores the electrifying nature of MMA, captivating audiences around the world.