Belal Muhammad Bio
Belal Muhammad (born July 9, 1988) is an American professional mixed martial artist competing in the Welterweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). Known for his wrestling stance and resilience, Muhammad has built a reputable career since his professional start in 2012. He is recognized for his technical skill and dedication within the MMA community.
Early Life and Background
Belal Muhammad was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, USA, to Palestinian parents. He grew up with four siblings, including an older brother and sister, as well as two younger brothers. Muhammad attended Bogan High School where he wrestled under coach Louis Taylor, a future PFL champion who played a significant role in Muhammad’s early athletic development.
He pursued higher education at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, studying law. His background in wrestling and education laid a strong foundation for his later career in mixed martial arts.
Path to MMA
Muhammad began his MMA career in 2012, competing initially in regional promotions. His wrestling base and training under experienced mentors helped him quickly rise through the ranks. Early success included winning the Titan Fighting Championships Welterweight title, which propelled him to sign with the UFC in 2016.
His transition to the UFC marked a significant step, where he continued to develop his skills and establish himself against top competition in the welterweight division.
Belal Muhammad Career
Early Career (2012–2016)
Belal Muhammad started his professional MMA career in 2012, competing in various regional circuits. He gained attention after capturing the Titan Fighting Championships Welterweight Championship with a TKO victory over Steve Carl, improving his record to 9–0. This success led to his signing with the UFC in 2016.
During this period, Muhammad honed his wrestling and striking skills, preparing for the higher level of competition he would face in the UFC.
Ultimate Fighting Championship Breakthrough (2016–Present)
Muhammad made his UFC debut on July 7, 2016, at UFC Fight Night 90, stepping in on short notice against Alan Jouban. Although he lost via unanimous decision, the fight earned Fight of the Night honors, showcasing his competitive spirit. He secured his first UFC win against Augusto Montaño later that year with a third-round TKO.
Over the following years, Muhammad faced a range of opponents, including notable wins over Curtis Millender, Takashi Sato—earning his first Performance of the Night bonus—and Sean Brady, where he demonstrated his well-rounded skill set. He also experienced setbacks, such as losses to Vicente Luque and Leon Edwards, but consistently returned stronger.
In 2024, Muhammad captured the UFC Welterweight Championship by defeating Leon Edwards via unanimous decision at UFC 304. This victory marked the pinnacle of his career, reflecting his persistence and growth as a fighter.
Roufusport and Chicago Fight Team Era (2010–Present)
Belal Muhammad has been affiliated with the Chicago Fight Team since 2010 and trains with Roufusport. These teams have been instrumental in his development, providing coaching and support that have enhanced his wrestling-based fighting style. His partnership with his teams has contributed to his strategic approach and conditioning in the octagon.
Driving Style and Strengths
Muhammad employs a wrestling stance complemented by Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, holding a brown belt in the discipline. His fighting style emphasizes control, pressure, and endurance, often wearing down opponents with relentless grappling and tactical striking. His ability to adapt and maintain composure under pressure is a key strength.
Notable Events and Milestones
Key milestones in Muhammad’s career include winning the Titan FC Welterweight Championship, earning multiple Fight of the Night and Performance of the Night bonuses in the UFC, and ultimately securing the UFC Welterweight Championship in 2024. His bouts are recognized for competitiveness and technical proficiency.
Belal Muhammad Career Wins
Belal Muhammad has amassed a professional record of 24 wins and 5 losses across his MMA career. His victories include wins by decision, knockout, submission, and disqualification, reflecting his versatility inside the cage.
Ultimate Fighting Championship Highlights
Since joining the UFC in 2016, Muhammad has accumulated numerous wins, including notable victories over Takashi Sato by submission and Sean Brady by TKO. His first UFC win came via TKO against Augusto Montaño. Muhammad’s most recent significant win was capturing the UFC Welterweight Championship in 2024. He has earned multiple performance bonuses and consistently competed at a high level in the welterweight division.
Other Wins & Performances
Before joining the UFC, Muhammad won the Titan Fighting Championships Welterweight title, which was a crucial stepping stone in his professional career. His early success in regional promotions established him as a promising prospect in MMA.
Belal Muhammad Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
Belal Muhammad comes from a Palestinian family and has four siblings. While there is no direct lineage in combat sports, his family background and support have played a role in his personal and professional life.
Personal Life
Muhammad is a practicing Muslim and an outspoken supporter of Palestine. He has publicly condemned antisemitism and expressed his views on political issues affecting his heritage. In 2020, his family’s businesses in Chicago were affected during civil unrest. Muhammad also participated in community events, such as throwing the ceremonial first pitch for the Chicago Cubs in 2021.
2025 Season Performance
In 2025, Belal Muhammad was scheduled to defend his UFC Welterweight Championship against Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 315. However, he lost the title by unanimous decision in that bout. Earlier in the year, he had to withdraw from a scheduled title defense due to a bone infection. Later in the year, Muhammad faced Ian Machado Garry at UFC Fight Night 265 but lost by unanimous decision. Despite these setbacks, Muhammad remains a prominent figure in the welterweight division, known for his resilience and competitive spirit.