Belal Muhammad has made history by becoming the first mixed martial arts fighter of Palestinian background to win a UFC title. On Saturday, he defeated the English champion Leon Edwards to claim the welterweight belt.
At 36, Muhammad, who was born in Chicago to Palestinian immigrant parents, won the fight with a five-round unanimous decision (48-47, 48-47, 49-46) at UFC 304. This victory is a major milestone in his career.
In 2021, Muhammad and Edwards fought to a no-contest, which left fans and fighters unsatisfied. Since then, both fighters went on impressive winning streaks—Edwards with four wins and Muhammad with five.
During the UFC match, Belal Muhammad (24-3) was visibly bloodied but remained determined. After the fight, he dropped to his knees, overwhelmed with emotion, as he had just secured his 11th consecutive unbeaten fight and had the championship belt wrapped around his waist. He hasn’t lost a match since 2019.
Before the fight in Manchester, England, Muhammad shared that his victory was not only for himself but also for Palestinians and people in Gaza. He proudly waved the Palestinian flag while promoting the match and used the song “Dammi Falesteeni” (My Blood is Palestine) by Mohammed Assaf as his walkout music.
Also read: Is climate change causing the Earth to wobble more? Days are getting longer for sure!
Muhammad, a fan of legendary boxer Mohamed Ali, has often highlighted his Palestinian heritage and has said that, as a renowned fighter, he feels he has “a voice for the voiceless.” His win is seen as a significant achievement for both him and the Palestinian community.
