Few fighters can match the incredible career Georges St-Pierre had in the welterweight division. While GSP successfully captured the middleweight title upon his return, it was his dominant reign as welterweight champion that cemented his status as an all-time great.
The Canadian legend reclaimed his title after a stunning loss to Matt Serra and then proceeded to dominate and defeat every challenger in the division.
More than ten years after the longtime champion delivered memorable performances at the Bell Centre in Montreal, the welterweight title is heading back to the same arena in a few weeks.
Belal Muhammad is scheduled to defend his title against Jack Della Maddalena in the main event of UFC 315, and the fighter widely regarded as the greatest welterweight ever will be present.
Georges St-Pierre Discusses Belal Muhammad`s Versatile Style Ahead of UFC 315
Georges St-Pierre confirmed he will attend UFC 315 to corner his Tristar teammate and fellow Canadian fighter, Aiemann Zahabi.
The event features two title fights, with Belal Muhammad making his first welterweight title defense on May 10, having claimed the belt by defeating Leon Edwards in their rematch at UFC 304 last July.
Despite being often overlooked throughout his career, Belal `Remember the Name` Muhammad has become undeniable, proving doubters wrong with every victory.
When top contender Shavkat Rakhmonov became unavailable for the date, Australia`s Jack Della Maddalena stepped in, fresh off a seven-fight winning streak in the Octagon.
Della Maddalena boasts a professional record with 12 knockouts out of 17 wins and is especially recognized for his sharp striking and boxing prowess.
Although many, including St-Pierre, see the challenger having an edge in striking, the former champion believes Muhammad`s recent performances show this isn`t just a striker vs. grappler matchup.
“Belal is the complete package,” St-Pierre stated. “He is skilled in all areas and possesses an awkward style that often disrupts opponents, particularly in striking exchanges. Jack, however, is on an impressive tear, carrying great momentum and a strong winning streak. It promises to be an interesting fight.”
“While Jack might have the advantage in pure striking, this isn`t just a kickboxing match; it`s mixed martial arts, and that`s where I believe Belal Muhammad gains an edge. He possesses more tools to secure the win, though victory is never guaranteed.”
Georges St-Pierre: Beating Belal Muhammad Requires Cracking His Code
During his dominant tenure as welterweight champion, Georges St-Pierre demonstrated himself to be among the most versatile fighters ever to compete in the Octagon.
His adaptable style enabled him to face any challenge effectively, whether grappling with skilled wrestlers or striking with dangerous stand-up fighters.
The key question for UFC 315 is whether Jack Della Maddalena can achieve the upset victory over Belal Muhammad, despite St-Pierre`s assessment that Muhammad has more pathways to win.
`Rush` emphasized that the crucial element for defeating a well-rounded champion, or any champion, is finding a way to `crack their code`.
The event on May 10 will reveal if Della Maddalena holds the key to solving the unique challenge that Muhammad presents.
“It`s always about cracking the code, and he`s the champion for a reason,” GSP stated. “Nobody has figured out his style yet. Belal`s approach is very aggressive; he constantly pressures forward, forcing opponents onto their back foot. He excels at changing levels and shifting the fight`s momentum – that`s his core strength. Jack, conversely, is a highly skilled striker.”
Rupert Hartwell 
Benedict Kingsley