A Plea for Representation
Belal Muhammad, the reigning UFC welterweight champion, has consistently represented Palestine throughout his career, a gesture that has become a defining aspect of his identity as an athlete. However, a recent oversight on the UFC’s official website has left him and his supporters disheartened. Muhammad noticed that his profile, unlike those of many other athletes, does not display a flag from his home nation. In a video posted to Twitter, he addressed this issue directly to UFC CEO Dana White, hoping for a resolution. "People keep asking me, ‘Where’s your flag?’ I kept getting multiple messages about it, and I was just assuming it was a mistake, but it’s still not addressed," Muhammad explained. "So I’ll address it and hope that Dana addresses it as well and fixes it. Because Dana said he’s all about free speech, he’s all about people supporting who they want to support and not muting or silencing anybody. I’m hoping the UFC fixes this issue and puts my flag next to my name so the people that I represent, the people that I fight for, and the people that I train for will see their flag next to their champion’s name."
Born in the U.S., Rooted in Palestine
Muhammad, born in the United States to Palestinian parents, carries a deep sense of pride and responsibility for his heritage. His journey in the UFC has been marked by a strong commitment to representing Palestine, a nation that has faced significant challenges and conflicts. This representation is more than just a symbolic gesture; it is a way for him to connect with his roots and inspire those back home. "For me to be able to carry that flag with the belt, to be the champion, it just gives them something to be proud of," Muhammad said in an interview with MMA Fighting. "Something they can point at and say ‘that’s my flag! That’s my countryman! That’s my guy!’ It just gives these kids something bigger to dream about." This statement underscores the profound impact that Muhammad’s achievements and visibility have on the Palestinian community, both within the U.S. and abroad.
Significant Milestone in July
In July of the previous year, Muhammad claimed the welterweight title with a dominant victory over Leon Edwards in England. The win was monumental not only for his career but also for the Palestinian community. Muhammad was overwhelmed by the outpouring of support and celebration he received from people in Palestine. Videos and photos from various locations, including refugee camps, flooded his social media, showing the joy and pride of his fans. "There was literally a refugee camp that had the fights on," he recounted. "They sent me a video of it and all the kids cheering it and watching it while they were there. Those are the real heroes. Those are the guys that I do it for." This moment strengthened his resolve to continue representing Palestine, especially on the global stage of the UFC.
The Importance of Visibility
For Muhammad, carrying the Palestinian flag to the octagon is a powerful symbol. It represents more than just his personal heritage; it is a beacon of hope for those who look up to him. "To get a cheer, to get a smile from one of these kids, to have them look up to me when I’m looking up to them," he said. "They’re the strongest people in the world, they’re the most resilient people in the world." The resilience and strength of the Palestinian people, particularly those living in war-torn regions, deeply inspire Muhammad. He sees his role as a fighter and champion as a way to give back to a community that has endured so much. "To see the stuff that they’re going through and the stuff that they’re still grateful for. They’re so grateful just to be alive everyday. They’re still grateful to be able to fight and still be able to live when I’m sitting there, I just fought 25 minutes. It’s nothing. They’re fighting to be alive. They’re fighting everyday to do this thing that we take for granted here in America."
Looking Forward to UFC 315
Muhammad is set to defend his title at UFC 315 in May, where he will face Jack Della Maddalena. He is genuinely excited about the opportunity to carry the Palestinian flag into the octagon with the belt. This fight is not just a contest of skill and endurance but also a platform to showcase his pride and commitment to his heritage. "It’s a huge honor for me to represent Palestine in the UFC," he stated. "I feel a deep connection to the people and the land, and I want to use this platform to bring more awareness and positivity to their struggles and achievements." Muhammad’s dedication to his cause is evident in his every action, both inside and outside the octagon.
A Call for Inclusion
Muhammad’s plea to UFC CEO Dana White is a call for inclusion and recognition. By fixing the issue with his profile, the UFC can send a powerful message of support and acknowledgment to Muhammad and the Palestinian community. "When you look at my flag, it’s not just a piece of cloth, it’s a symbol of identity, resilience, and hope," Muhammad emphasized. "I hope the UFC can see the importance of this and make the necessary changes." His advocacy reflects the broader theme of athletes using their platforms to highlight social and political issues, a trend that has gained significant traction in recent years. Muhammad’s voice is a reminder of the importance of visibility and representation in professional sports.
