In this article, we will learn about American Mixed Martial Artist Belal Muhammad and his career highlights.
Belal Muhammad, alias “Remember the Name,” is a well-known American mixed martial artist fighting in the UFC welterweight division. Born on July 9, 1988, to Palestinian immigrant parents in Chicago, Illinois, Muhammad is not only a notable MMA athlete but also a representative of his culture.
Early Life
Muhammad grew up in Chicago, raised in an environment that encouraged hard work and determination. He graduated from Bogan High School, where he started wrestling and developed the basis of his career in mixed martial arts. While he signed up for the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, he ultimately left to follow a career path in MMA. His Palestinian heritage is central to his identity; he regularly takes the Palestinian flag with him during his walkouts and is outspoken about concerns regarding the Palestinian community.
MMA Career
Muhammad started his professional MMA career in 2012, soon establishing himself through a string of quality performances. Prior to signing with the UFC, he won the Titan FC Welterweight Championship, demonstrating his ability on a bigger platform. He was due to make his UFC debut on July 7, 2016, at UFC Fight Night 90, replacing Alan Jouban on short notice. In spite of a unanimous decision loss, Muhammad received “Fight of the Night” accolades, marking his debut in the promotion.
Over the years, Muhammad has built a reputation for his relentless pace, exceptional cardio, and strategic fight IQ. His fighting style emphasizes volume striking and grappling control, often leading to dominant decision victories. Notable wins include victories over Tim Means, Lyman Good, and Vicente Luque. His consistent performances propelled him up the welterweight rankings, culminating in a title shot.
Recent Progression
On July 27, 2024, at Manchester’s UFC 304, Muhammad battled then-champion Leon Edwards for the UFC Welterweight Championship. In an exhibition of elegance and tactics, Muhammad won by unanimous decision, becoming the first Palestinian-originating fighter to capture a UFC championship. The achievement was met with global fan jubilation and served as a peak in his career.
After his championship victory, Muhammad was set to face up-and-coming challenger Jack Della Maddalena in his first title defense on May 10, 2025, at UFC 315 in Montreal, Canada. The fight was a closely watched match, pitting Muhammad’s balanced skill set against the striking abilities of Della Maddalena. The fight was won by unanimous decision for Muhammad, further establishing him as the division’s best fighter.
Personal Life & Legacy
Outside the ring, Muhammad is a community activist and advocate. He is a practicing Muslim and frequently speaks on the role of religion in his life. His Palestinian rights activism is well-documented; he uses his voice to bring attention to issues faced by Palestinians and has been involved in numerous charitable causes.(Wikipedia)
During the George Floyd riots in 2020, looting hit his family’s business in Chicago. However, this setback did not dampen him; he stayed strong, turning the experience into a testament to the struggles that minority groups encounter in the United States.(Wikipedia)
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Belal Muhammad’s rags-to-riches story from an upstart wrestler in Chicago to UFC Welterweight Champion is a true reflection of his perseverance, talent, and commitment. He is a role model for any up-and-coming athlete, especially underrepresented ones. His status as a champion in the UFC, coupled with his activism and public outreach, guarantees that his legacy will go further than within the octagon.
As of May 2025, Muhammad continues to compete at the highest level of his sport, defending his title and inspiring fans worldwide with his performances and morals.
