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Belal Muhammad

Palestinian American mixed martial artist and former UFC welterweight champion

Born in
Chicago, Illinois, United States
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Why Belal is here

Muhammad became the first fighter of Palestinian heritage to win a UFC championship, carrying Palestinian identity onto one of the world's largest combat-sports stages.

Their story

Belal Muhammad is a Palestinian American professional mixed martial artist from Chicago. After beginning his professional career in 2012, he developed into a leading UFC welterweight and defeated Leon Edwards by unanimous decision at UFC 304 to win the division's championship in 2024. He has consistently used his platform to speak about his Palestinian heritage and the lives of Palestinians.

Milestones

The moments that shaped Belal’s path.

  1. 2012

    Began his professional mixed martial arts career.

  2. 2016

    Made his UFC debut.

  3. 2021-2023

    Built an unbeaten run against leading welterweights including Demian Maia, Stephen Thompson, Vicente Luque, Sean Brady, and Gilbert Burns.

  4. 2024

    Defeated Leon Edwards at UFC 304 to become UFC welterweight champion.

Legacy

What they built, changed and left behind.

  1. Became the first Palestinian UFC champion.

  2. Raised the visibility of Palestinian identity in international combat sports.

  3. Used championship-level recognition to draw attention to the daily struggles of Palestinians.

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