UFC: Jack Della Maddalena says swapping Leon Edwards fight for Belal Muhammad 'easy decision'

Australian fighter Jack Della Maddalena stated that canceling his fight with Leon Edwards to instead challenge UFC welterweight champion Belal Muhammad was a "simple decision." He believes this is a great opportunity to further his career.

Della Maddalena, 28, was originally scheduled to headline the UFC event in London on March 22 against British fighter Edwards, but now he will challenge for the UFC title on May 10. Meanwhile, Edwards will remain on the London UFC card, facing American fighter Sean Brady. This change in plans has excited fans worldwide.

"I was ready, it was a big fight (against Leon Edwards)," Della Maddalena said at a press conference on Wednesday. "The opponent has changed, but I am very confident that I can win. I am ready for the next few weeks to hone my skills and fight in the best condition." He is prepared to make the most of this unexpected opportunity.

Former UFC champion Edwards lost his title to Muhammad last July, but the UFC wanted the Birmingham fighter to continue to compete in London. If he wins his next few fights, the 33-year-old is expected to have a chance to regain the title. Muhammad's upset victory over Edwards in Manchester will be his first title defense. This sets the stage for a potentially explosive rematch in the future.

Muhammad, 36, is currently on a 10-fight unbeaten streak, including one no-contest. He said Della Maddalena is jumping from the "kiddie pool into the deep end." Della Maddalena has won his past 17 fights, including seven in the UFC, and this will be his first shot at a UFC title. Muhammad said: "I'm the best striker, the best grappler, the best wrestler, the best fighter in the welterweight division." "We've seen it. Leon Edwards – he's next. He knocked out Kamaru Usman, and I made him look easy. May 10, I'm going to make it look easy. People keep doubting me, but I'm going to keep breaking those barriers." He aims to prove his dominance in the division.