UFC

Benoit Saint-Denis vs. Joel Alvarez Set for UFC 315 in Lightweight Clash

Author photo
By
Garrett Kerman
Author photo
Garrett Kerman Sports Editor

Garrett Kerman also goes by the name of The Fight Analyst. He covers all combat sports, from MMA, to boxing, to even bare-knuckle. He is also very well-versed in all American sports when it comes to news and betting analysis. Whether you want betting advice or some breaking news, Garrett is your guy.

Get to know Garrett Kerman better
Sports Editor

Published01 Apr 2025

Disclosure
We publish independently audited content meeting strict editorial standards. While our content features sponsored links, from which we may earn a commission, this does not influence our recommendations.
saint-denis alvarez (1)

The UFC has added another electrifying matchup to its already stacked UFC 315 card, as Benoit Saint-Denis is set to face Joel Alvarez in a lightweight bout on May 10 in Montreal, Canada. Both fighters are known for their finishing abilities, making this a must-watch contest for fans eager to see high-level aggression and skill inside the Octagon.

Saint-Denis Looks to Rebound

Benoit Saint-Denis, nicknamed “God of War,” enters this fight with his back against the wall. The Frenchman is coming off a two-fight losing streak, having suffered back-to-back stoppage defeats to Dustin Poirier and Renato Moicano in 2024. Once riding high on a five-fight win streak that included victories over Matt Frevola and Thiago Moises, Saint-Denis now finds himself at a critical juncture in his career.

Currently ranked #13 in the UFC lightweight division, Saint-Denis is known for his relentless fighting style and grappling prowess, boasting nine submission wins among his 13 professional victories. However, his recent losses have highlighted vulnerabilities in his striking defense and ability to withstand pressure from elite opponents. This fight against Alvarez represents a chance for redemption and an opportunity to prove he still belongs among the division’s best.

Despite the setbacks, Saint-Denis remains a dangerous opponent. A former member of the French Army Special Forces, his resilience and mental toughness have been key attributes throughout his MMA career. Fighting in Montreal could also provide him with a fresh start as he looks to reignite his momentum.

Alvarez Brings Finishing Firepower

Standing across from Saint-Denis will be Spain’s Joel Alvarez, a fighter who has quietly built one of the most impressive finishing records in the lightweight division. Known as “El Fenómeno,” Alvarez has won all 22 of his professional victories by stoppage—five by knockout and 17 via submission. At 6’3” with a 77-inch reach, Alvarez possesses a significant size advantage over most of his opponents, which he uses effectively both on the feet and on the ground.

Alvarez is riding a three-fight winning streak, with all victories coming via finishes against tough competition like Marc Diakiese, Elves Brener, and Drakkar Klose. His most recent outing—a flying knee knockout of Klose in December 2024—earned him widespread praise and solidified his reputation as one of the division’s most exciting fighters.

However, Alvarez’s career hasn’t been without challenges. He has struggled with weight cuts in the past, missing weight multiple times early in his UFC tenure. Additionally, his losses to Arman Tsarukyan and Damir Ismagulov exposed weaknesses against high-level grapplers who can neutralize his dynamic offense. Against Saint-Denis—a strong grappler himself—Alvarez will need to showcase improved takedown defense and composure under pressure.

A Fight with High Stakes

This matchup is more than just another fight on the UFC 315 card—it’s a crossroads bout for both men. For Saint-Denis, it’s do-or-die as he looks to avoid a third consecutive loss that could jeopardize his ranking and future in the division. For Alvarez, it’s an opportunity to break into the lightweight rankings and position himself as a legitimate contender.

Stylistically, this fight promises fireworks. Both fighters are aggressive finishers who rarely leave their fate in the hands of the judges. Saint-Denis will likely look to close the distance and impose his grappling game, while Alvarez will aim to use his length and striking precision to keep the fight at range or capitalize on submission opportunities if it hits the mat.

UFC 315 already boasts an impressive lineup featuring Belal Muhammad defending his welterweight title against Jack Della Maddalena and Valentina Shevchenko putting her flyweight belt on the line against Manon Fiorot. The addition of Saint-Denis vs. Alvarez further enhances what is shaping up to be one of the most exciting cards of 2025.

As May 10 approaches, fans can expect plenty of buzz around this clash of finishers. Whether it’s Saint-Denis reclaiming his momentum or Alvarez continuing his rise through the ranks, this fight has all the ingredients for an unforgettable showdown in Montreal.