Belal Muhammad, an American professional mixed martial artist, feels proud as his parents enjoy superstar treatment after his UFC title win.
He competes in the UFC welterweight division and is the current Champion. He learned to wrestle under Louis Taylor at Bogan High School.
Belal was the Titan Fighting Championships Welterweight Champion in his initial MMA career, advancing his record to 9 wins and 0 losses. The UFC signed him in 2016.
On July 7, 2016, he lost his UFC debut match against Alan Jouban via unanimous decision, but both participants were awarded Fight of the Night bonuses for their performances.
His win against Takashi Sato on September 7, 2019, at UFC 242 earned him his first Performance of the Night award.
Moreover, he became the UFC Welterweight Champion on July 27, 2024, after defeating Leon Edwards in a rematch at UFC 304. He will defend his title against Jack Della Maddalena on May 10, 2025, at UFC 315.
Belal Muhammad’s Parents Are From Palestine
Belal Muhammad, the son of Abdullah and Maha Muhammad, was born on July 9, 1988, in Chicago, Illinois. His Palestinian parents raised him alongside his four siblings.
His parents traveled from the West Bank city of Al-Bireh, which Israel has occupied since 1967.
Abdullah Muhammad owned a cell phone store in Chicago, a source of pride and stability for the family.
It was their livelihood, but looters targeted their store amid the Black Lives Matter protests in 2020. The damage was devastating, and the cost to rebuild was insurmountable.
Abdullah and Maha decided to close the store for good as reopening was no longer feasible.
Belal’s connection to his roots is undeniable. He walks into the Octagon waving the Palestinian flag, symbolizing his identity and a tribute to his family’s history.
When fans noticed that his UFC profile had no flag listed earlier this year, Muhammad didn’t stay silent.
I just want to give a quick shoutout to Dana. I talked to him, he said the flag’s back up tonight. (He) apologized, and that’s why I love the UFC. I love this company, and that’s why Dana’s the man. The only organization that lets you be yourself. And true to his word, and doesn’t let other people sway his attitude or what he’s going to do. So, shout out to Dana. Shout out to the UFC. Flag is back, baby.
Belal Muhammad
Belal’s outspoken pride resonates with fans worldwide, especially those who see him as a voice for the Palestinian community in sports.
His relationship with his heritage grew even stronger during Ramadan this year.
Abdullah and Maha’s influence is evident in his humility, work ethic, and refusal to back down, whether in the cage or standing up for his beliefs.
Belal Muhammad Made His Parents Proud With An MMA Championship
Belal Muhammad was another determined fighter grinding his way up the UFC rankings a few years ago. Today, he is the crowned champion of the welterweight division.
But for Muhammad, the true victory isn’t just the gold around his waist, but it’s seeing his parents finally receive the recognition and respect he always dreamed of giving them.
Belal Muhammad’s journey to UFC gold was anything but easy, and he earned the nickname “Remember the Name.”
He was renowned for his relentless work ethic and tactical brilliance. He steadily climbed the ranks, defeating top contenders like Gilbert Burns, Sean Brady, and Vicente Luque.
His championship victory resulted from his years of sacrifice and the support of his family, who supported him through every hardship.
In a recent interview with Michael Bisping, Muhammad opened up about the most rewarding part of his success: seeing his parents embraced by the MMA community.
Seeing my dad being able to celebrate, he is showing his friends the bout. People ask my mom for pictures at grocery stores. So, seeing them get that superstar treatment is a sweet part for me.
Belal Muhammad
In sharp contrast, Belal’s parents, like many immigrant families, were concerned about the dangers of mixed martial arts in the early years of his career.
They proudly witness their son’s achievements, which fans celebrate worldwide.
As the MMA artist prepares for his title defense, one thing is clear: his victory isn’t just his own. It belongs to his family, supporters, and everyone who doubted that an underdog could rise to the top.
In case You Didn’t know
- Belal Muhammad studied to become a lawyer and graduated from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
- He represents Palestine and threw the ceremonial first pitch for the Chicago Cubs on July 28, 2021.
- His net worth is estimated at $2 million.
- He stands 1.8 m tall and weighs about 77 kg.
