Belal Muhammad Wins UFC Welterweight Title: A Historic Victory for Palestinian Fighters
Belal Muhammad Wins UFC Welterweight Title: A Historic Victory for Palestinian Fighters
Belal Muhammad has made history as the first fighter of Palestinian descent to win a UFC title. The 36-year-old American, born to Palestinian immigrants in Chicago, clinched the welterweight crown from defending champion Leon Edwards in a thrilling bout at UFC 304. The fight took place on July 28, 2024, in Manchester, England, and was a hard-fought victory that ended with a unanimous decision in Muhammad’s favor, with scores of 48-47, 48-47, and 49-46.
A Journey of Determination and Resilience
Muhammad’s path to the title has been marked by determination and resilience. His victory at UFC 304 was his eleventh consecutive win, a streak that began after his last loss in 2019. Despite facing tough opponents and enduring grueling training sessions, Muhammad’s dedication never wavered. His face was bloodied, but his spirit remained unbroken as he dropped to his knees in relief and triumph when the championship belt was wrapped around his waist.
Fighting for More Than Himself
Belal Muhammad’s journey is not just a personal triumph; it is also a powerful statement for the Palestinian people. He has consistently highlighted his Palestinian heritage, using his platform to raise awareness about the struggles in Gaza. Before the fight, Muhammad was quoted saying, “It’s not just about myself, it’s about them [Palestinians and the people in Gaza]” that he is fighting for. This sentiment was further amplified when he proudly waved the Palestinian flag while promoting the match and openly criticized the Israeli war on Gaza.
The No-Contest and the Road to Redemption
Muhammad and Edwards have a history that added an extra layer of intensity to their UFC 304 bout. The two fighters previously faced off in 2021, a match that ended in a no-contest due to an accidental eye poke. This unsatisfying result set both fighters on a path of redemption. Edwards went on to win the welterweight belt by defeating Kamaru Usman in 2022 and successfully defended it twice before facing Muhammad again. On the other hand, Muhammad used the no-contest as a springboard for his own winning streak, eventually leading to his historic title win.
A Voice for the Voiceless
Belal Muhammad has used his success in the UFC to become a voice for the voiceless. In 2021, he was quoted as saying that, as a world-renowned fighter, he has “a voice for the voiceless.” He has emphasized the importance of representing Palestinian athletes on the global stage, stating, “There aren’t a lot of Palestinian athletes that have a stage or platform where they can carry the flag. And now, especially during these times, I need to carry that flag higher than ever. To show the world that we do exist, that we are a country, and there are real people there.”
Looking Ahead
Belal Muhammad’s victory is not just a win for him but a momentous occasion for Palestinians around the world. His journey from the streets of Chicago to the pinnacle of mixed martial arts is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment to his roots. As he continues his career, Muhammad is determined to keep using his platform to shine a light on the issues facing his people and to inspire the next generation of fighters.
In conclusion, Belal Muhammad’s victory at UFC 304 is a historic milestone that extends beyond the octagon. It is a story of resilience, determination, and the power of sports to transcend borders and bring attention to important global issues.
