A UFC champion has launched a fiery critique at Dana White and the promotion for refusing to display his nation’s flag ahead of his upcoming bout—a move that’s reignited a long-simmering debate about politics and pride in MMA. While the UFC CEO has sidestepped flag-related disputes in the past, this backlash carries heavier weight: the fighter at the center isn’t just another contender—he’s a reigning titleholder.
Taking to social media, the athlete blasted the organization for erasing his national symbol, arguing it undermines the identity he fights to represent. With tensions rising, this clash of principles is far from over.
UFC Champion’s viral callout exposes Dana White's inconsistent stance
The fighter in question is none other than welterweight king Belal Muhammad, whose roots trace back to Palestine. Ahead of his UFC 315 clash against Jack Della Maddalena, Muhammad noticed a glaring omission: the Palestinian flag was missing from his official fight profile. Frustrated, he fired off a social media post that cut straight to the heart of the issue.
“Dana [White] says he’s all about free speech. He’s all about people supporting who they want to support and not muting or silencing anybody,” Muhammad declared. “I’m hoping that 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.”
Belal Muhammad’s plea isn’t new. At UFC 304, officials reportedly ordered him to remove a Palestinian flag during his walkout—a moment Dana White awkwardly dodged when pressed post-fight.
“I have no idea. I get what you’re trying to do… You guys love to do that sh—,” White retorted, deflecting questions about the flag’s removal.
This inconsistency stings. While the UFC claims to avoid politics, critics argue its selective flag bans—targeting some nations while allowing others—create a double standard. For Muhammad, whose identity is deeply tied to Palestine, the omission feels personal.
Will the UFC Bend?
Belal Muhammad’s outcry forces a reckoning. Can the promotion uphold its “free speech” mantra while silencing cultural representation? Or will pressure from one of its champions finally spark change? As fight night nears, all eyes are on Dana White—will he address the controversy, or keep ducking? One thing’s clear: in a sport built on pride and passion, erasing symbols of heritage might be the riskiest fight of all.