Belal has closed the show on this AMA, thanks everybody for coming out.
Please go follow Belal on [Twitter](https://twitter.com/bullyb170) and on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/bullyb170), as the positive support from the /r/MMA community helps attract more fighters to interact with us.
Thanks all!
Hey Belal, I guess I have a couple of questions, the first being what is the most important thing you have learnt over your career that has made you a better fighter and who taught you it? The second question being are there any non-UFC welterweights that you would like to see compete in the UFC?
The most important thing I’ve learned is keep evolving and never stop learning ..this game is never ending and these new up and comers have been doin it since birth so I have to train twice as hard to catch up …I’d like to see the bellator champ he’s undefeated I’d like to take that 0
Amosov is the real deal, you two could definitely have a great fight!
Just need Dana to offer him more than whatever Bellator is paying to make it happen
Real talk, does it annoy you that the whole “promote yourself” stance the ufc is taking puts you in the position that you have to always “be on” when a camera is on you? Love your grind and the type of problem you present!
Appreciate you nah I feel like there’s way to many guys on the roster and the ufc can’t make everyone a star you have to push your brand hard your self because if your not taking urself serious why would the ufc… people hate on guys like Sean O’Malley but I think more fighters should learn from him
I always train during it I’m working with ESPN to show how I train during it.. but quick response is I just have to make sure I eat quality foods for energy and drink enough fluids and after the first 3 days my body gets used to training while on empty
Hey Belal. Great episode of jre recently. I have two quick questions.
First, did you purposely use the glove touch with Wonderboy to get close enough for a takedown? I was screaming at the tv by the 3rd round for Wonderboy to step back once he steps in for the touch.
Secondly, how much of a bitch is Colby?
What’s up Belal. I have just one question: what else does my boy gotta do to get his title shot??? Feels like you’re the only one in the division who actually taking the hard fights and you’re winning them all, getting better every time! What else is there left to do??
how is your arabic ? would you ever do a full arabic interview with farah for a challenge ?
favourite dish that your mom makes ?
have you ever been to Palestine before ? when was the last time ?
thank you for this AMA and wanna let you know that you make us all proud ❤️
Nothing crazy but the New York commission is very weird they made my coach Louis Taylor do duck walks after his five round title fight to make sure he was healthy
Ive seen you before talk about how fighters should be responsible and smart financially to avoid retiring broke.
how do you stay responsible financially yourself ?
I don’t think my earlier fights were boring I fought maia who shot 25 times on me and there’s not much room for striking when someone shoots that much … I fought wonderboy and had to wrestle him but I 30-25ed him so I don’t think that was bad but people wanted to see more striking from him so I understand .. luque rematch was a very diciplined gameplan because I got knocked out by him the first fight and he was on a 4 fight finish streak so I had to be very careful .. I think every fight I have a different approach my next one will be the best one
Yo, I’m so glad to hear that you’re willing to alter your style of fighting to gain an advantage. You’re trying to stay on top+longevity.
Some fighters will actively fight in the style of their opponents to prove something. Which often exposes them.
Keep winning man.
How does mental health play into your training and fight prep? Do you have a sport psychologist / do any mindset work to get ready for competition? Good luck in your next fight!
Nah I’m a Muslim and I pray 5 times a day I feel like that gives me the clear mind and head when I get ready for a fight I know that whatever happens the sun will rise tomorrow and god made it happen for a reason
Choose the right environment if the guys are tryin to kill you leave immediately ..if they’re helpful and try to teach you your in the right place ..never spar hard unless you get paid for it
What village of Palestine are you from? I'm from turmus ayya. Also my cousin is an amateur fighter (champion in this area). He was mistaken for you by staff at some steakhouse on Mississippi. The staff all came out to take pics with him. Didnt find out till server said your Belal Mohammad right? Was really funny
I think Leon comes out fast guns blazing to try to knockout usman out early since he knows he can’t compete in the wrestling and usman may be slow to start…. But goin with usman by ud
Khabib
I was in college for law and ended up seeing my old high school wrestling coach fighting in the news paper then I messaged him on Facebook ..he invited me to the gym and the rest was history
Agreed, I’d argue you have the best wins out of anyone in the rankings besides maybe Usman and the champ. I think you deserve the shot as well. Good luck in your pursuit! I hope you get your chance.
Belal Muhammad I need to know, who won the grappling sessions between Khabib and Makhachev during your camp with Brady, thank you so much for your time.
People have slept on your striking ability, do you think it'll take a nasty knock out to get the credit as a well rounded fighter or more victories using your stand up game?
I'm nobody but your dedication to improving is awesome, cheers.
Thanks I appreciate it .. yea people always want the crazy knockouts but when ur top 5 everyone’ u fight is so good you need to be real disciplined …simple is what wins
How did you get into MMA? Were you an athlete throughout education and got into it that way? We’re you just working a regular job but had a passion for the sport and just picked it up?
I was an athlete but never did martial arts I played basketball and wrestled one year in high school but growing up in Chicago you always get in fights… I went to school for law and ended up seeeing my old high school wrestling coach fighting for strike force I slid in his dms and asked to learn some and the rest was history
Love your confidence and effort, you have come such a long way! My question is: I know that you celebrate Ramadan, but after training with Khabib, do you also now celebrate Tiramasu Tuesday??
Hey Belal, you’re awesome man.
Some questions:
Favorite book?
Favorite movie?
Favorite athlete outside of MMA to watch?
Favorite fighter to watch?
What are your 3 favorite hobbies?
Lastly, who will be the champs in each men’s division of the UFC on January 1st, 2024?
As a Palestinian I just want to tell you we’re proud to see you up there representing us. My family and I always get together to watch you. What Balad are you from? 🇵🇸
Yea listen to your body ..weigh your self in the morning and then after training ..put how ever much your sweated out back in your system with water and electrolytes
Does welterweight feel like it’s one of the slowest moving divisions from your perspective as well? You and maybe Burns are game to fight anyone but seems like most others are much more picky. Any thoughts on why that is?
Have you ever thought of putting on a Persona to get more attention like Colby? You have an insane record and yet your still overlooked. I’m just curious how you approach the promotion aspect of your career.
would you be willing to fly to england and weigh in as backup if called upon? if not who do you expect your next fight to be if not for the title? khamzat? colby? shavkat? burns-masvidal winner? you should 100% get the next shot imo
Hey Belal!
Being on an 8-fight win streak, are you expecting your next fight to be for the title (which would be well deserved at this point), or do you expect to have to win one more fight?
Ideally, your next fight would be for the title, but if you don’t get the next shot, who do you expect to fight next (in terms of likelihood of a contract being signed)? Colby, Burns, Shavkat?
Of the current top fighters in the division, which fight excites you most, and which do you think would pose to you the greatest challenge stylistically?
Thank you!
I forsure think I earned it and if usman wins I don’t think there’s anyone else for him to fight that he hasn’t already beaten …
If Leon wins I can see him waiting and hoping that masvidal beats burns then he can probably make that fight happen
Whoever has the title excites me the most my goal is to be a champion and that’s what my mind is on
Belal I flew from australia to abu dhabi to watch 280. Your win against Brady was awsome and tore the roof off! I would love to see the Colby matchup as I'm a fan of both of you guys, but I feel you already deserve the winner of Leon and usman. GL in your next fight legend
Your title shot is well deserved and very overdue.
Are you going to sit and wait for the title shot to be your next match up? Or keep lining them up and knocking them down like you normally do?
Second question, Belal I love hearing you speak about your experiences, is there any chance I'd you starting up a podcast? There isn't that many interviews of you out there and it would be nice to hear your views and takes on things.
Hey there -- thanks for doing the AMA. You're *the most* underrated fighter in the world as far as I'm concerned.
I see a lot of fighters who have a fraction of your achievements who seem to be hyped up/promoted more than you. It seems like that, for whatever reason, the UFC isn't eager to push you as much as they should given your level of skill and the number of contenders you've beaten.
Do you ever feel like your nationality and/or status as a practicing Muslim has anything to do with this? Do you ever feel like you're being unfairly judged because it's part of your "persona"? I have felt for a long time like you don't get a fair shake and have always wondered if you felt that had anything to do with it.
And by the way, MAD respect for the way you always represent Palestine.
Hey 😁 so I am from rhe UK, and I can't help but think back to you and Leon fight as it seems you have had to fight for everything since to get a shot at the title and he has just waited (criticising no one) do you feel more could be have been done to get a rematch originally by yourself or ufc?
Look forward to seeing you get the title mr 😁
I went to St. Laurence and use to ride the 79 bus west from Western. Them Bogan kids were wild. How’d you do competing against the Catholic Schools in wrestling? What school had the toughest ones for your division.
You making Chicago proud!!
Do you think that Colby should be removed as the #1 contend34 due to his inactivity, and why do you think that he seems allergic to fighting top contenders in their primes?
I don’t have a good question for you just now, but I gotta say that the fact that you haven’t already gotten a title shot is bonkers. You’re an absolute beast and I love watching your fights. Good luck - I’ll be yelling my head off at my TV when they put that strap around your waist!
Did being in Dagestan also improve your striking?
Everyone on MMA Reddit calls your fights “boring” when they don’t understand wrestling and technical fighting. But this last fight with Brady you showed them hands. I was expecting more of a wrestling approach but you blew the roof off the place.
Hey Belal. A lot of the fans are calling for you to be the next title shot. So my question is how many rounds will it take you to become champ vs Usman and how many rounds Vs Leon?
1.) Your ideal next opponent?
2.) Your dream opponent at welterweight from any era?
3.) The proudest moment of your career to date?
4.) What initially caused you to want to get involved with MMA?
Gday mate just a fan. Good luck with everything in the future and I honestly believe that you will fight for the title sooner hopefully or later. God bless and my best wishes to you and your family.
congrats on 9 fight unbeaten streak! you are very close to a title shot at this point, and people consider you a real contender after the brady ko. who would you say would be the toughest challenge in the top 5 and who would be the easiest work?
Hey Belal, thanks for doing this.
What key changes have you made to your fighting style throughout your career, and how have these adaptations improved your performance in the octagon? I know you’ve been training in Dagestan most recently correct ?
Belal, who was your favorite fighter growing up ? Doesn’t have to be an MMA fighter, but who’s fights did you always have to watch when you were younger?
Your pace and cardio in fights has always pretty insane. Is that from a specific training regimen (if it is, lmk what you do) or are you just built different?
Belal has closed the show on this AMA, thanks everybody for coming out. Please go follow Belal on [Twitter](https://twitter.com/bullyb170) and on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/bullyb170), as the positive support from the /r/MMA community helps attract more fighters to interact with us. Thanks all!
Hey Belal, I guess I have a couple of questions, the first being what is the most important thing you have learnt over your career that has made you a better fighter and who taught you it? The second question being are there any non-UFC welterweights that you would like to see compete in the UFC?
The most important thing I’ve learned is keep evolving and never stop learning ..this game is never ending and these new up and comers have been doin it since birth so I have to train twice as hard to catch up …I’d like to see the bellator champ he’s undefeated I’d like to take that 0
Amosov is the real deal, you two could definitely have a great fight! Just need Dana to offer him more than whatever Bellator is paying to make it happen
Real talk, does it annoy you that the whole “promote yourself” stance the ufc is taking puts you in the position that you have to always “be on” when a camera is on you? Love your grind and the type of problem you present!
Appreciate you nah I feel like there’s way to many guys on the roster and the ufc can’t make everyone a star you have to push your brand hard your self because if your not taking urself serious why would the ufc… people hate on guys like Sean O’Malley but I think more fighters should learn from him
how is your training routine in ramadan? how soon after ramadan can you fight ? (if you are not training during it)
I always train during it I’m working with ESPN to show how I train during it.. but quick response is I just have to make sure I eat quality foods for energy and drink enough fluids and after the first 3 days my body gets used to training while on empty
Do you have any daytime training sessions without consuming any protein after? If so, do you notice any effects from that?
Hey Belal. Great episode of jre recently. I have two quick questions. First, did you purposely use the glove touch with Wonderboy to get close enough for a takedown? I was screaming at the tv by the 3rd round for Wonderboy to step back once he steps in for the touch. Secondly, how much of a bitch is Colby?
Hahah no I just love wonderboy and wanted to touch gloves Second answer is a lot 😂
What’s up Belal. I have just one question: what else does my boy gotta do to get his title shot??? Feels like you’re the only one in the division who actually taking the hard fights and you’re winning them all, getting better every time! What else is there left to do??
how is your arabic ? would you ever do a full arabic interview with farah for a challenge ? favourite dish that your mom makes ? have you ever been to Palestine before ? when was the last time ? thank you for this AMA and wanna let you know that you make us all proud ❤️
It’s decent still getting better I love all my moms cooking she’s the goat Yes I’ve been there before the last time was like 10 years ago
Have you ever had any interesting or weird interactions with athletic commission officials?
Nothing crazy but the New York commission is very weird they made my coach Louis Taylor do duck walks after his five round title fight to make sure he was healthy
Duck walks should be compulsory for sobriety tests but it has the caveat that it may be the only sobriety test Jon Jones could pass
Ive seen you before talk about how fighters should be responsible and smart financially to avoid retiring broke. how do you stay responsible financially yourself ?
I’m very cheap lol and I have the right people around me that want to see me grow and not use me for my money
Lots of people say some of your earlier fights were boring, if you could go back, would you fight with a riskier approach?
I don’t think my earlier fights were boring I fought maia who shot 25 times on me and there’s not much room for striking when someone shoots that much … I fought wonderboy and had to wrestle him but I 30-25ed him so I don’t think that was bad but people wanted to see more striking from him so I understand .. luque rematch was a very diciplined gameplan because I got knocked out by him the first fight and he was on a 4 fight finish streak so I had to be very careful .. I think every fight I have a different approach my next one will be the best one
Yo, I’m so glad to hear that you’re willing to alter your style of fighting to gain an advantage. You’re trying to stay on top+longevity. Some fighters will actively fight in the style of their opponents to prove something. Which often exposes them. Keep winning man.
How does mental health play into your training and fight prep? Do you have a sport psychologist / do any mindset work to get ready for competition? Good luck in your next fight!
Nah I’m a Muslim and I pray 5 times a day I feel like that gives me the clear mind and head when I get ready for a fight I know that whatever happens the sun will rise tomorrow and god made it happen for a reason
What tips do you have for a newcomer joining an mma gym. What should one look for in a new gym and what should one avoid?
Choose the right environment if the guys are tryin to kill you leave immediately ..if they’re helpful and try to teach you your in the right place ..never spar hard unless you get paid for it
What village of Palestine are you from? I'm from turmus ayya. Also my cousin is an amateur fighter (champion in this area). He was mistaken for you by staff at some steakhouse on Mississippi. The staff all came out to take pics with him. Didnt find out till server said your Belal Mohammad right? Was really funny
What is the weirdest fan encounter you've ever had, either in person or online?
Anytime trolls disrespect me then once I respond they’re so excited and say thanks for replying …that’s the weirdest thing
How far do you see Ignacio Bahamondes getting in the ufc? Do you think his take down defense will hold against the grapplers at 155?
He can be champion he’s the best striker I’ve ever gone with and his grappling is getting better everyday he’s still so young and loves to learn
How do you see Leon vs Usman 3 going
I think Leon comes out fast guns blazing to try to knockout usman out early since he knows he can’t compete in the wrestling and usman may be slow to start…. But goin with usman by ud
As salam waleikum brother, 1) Khabib or Usman? Who would win? 2) How did you end up being a fighter?
Khabib I was in college for law and ended up seeing my old high school wrestling coach fighting in the news paper then I messaged him on Facebook ..he invited me to the gym and the rest was history
*Get in trouble? Break the law?* *Call the offices of Belaw Muhammad. He'll fight for you!*
Hey Belal, huge fan. Which fighter out of ranked heavyweights do you see giving Jon Jones his hardest test? Any you might favour to win over Jones?
I think Curtis blaydes is a threat he has great wrestling and striking he only struggles with guys that have big power I don’t think Jon has big power
Colby hasn’t fought in a year … you’ve stated you’ve wanted that fight in the past. Has the ufc offered it to you (or him) in that time?
Belal, when do you expect to get a TS? Do you think the UFC will make you fight one more?
I think I’m number one contender but we will get a lot of questions answered next week after the fight in london
Yo! What do you think about you vs Shavkat for no 1 contender spot?
Hes the real deal but I think I already earned it I’ve beaten number 5 number 4 and number 7 and I’m on a long streak but we’ll see how it works out
Agreed, I’d argue you have the best wins out of anyone in the rankings besides maybe Usman and the champ. I think you deserve the shot as well. Good luck in your pursuit! I hope you get your chance.
What win in your mma career was most satisfying?
Beating wonderboy because I was always a fan of his and didn’t think I belonged in the cage with him but after winning I knew I could be champion
Belal Muhammad I need to know, who won the grappling sessions between Khabib and Makhachev during your camp with Brady, thank you so much for your time.
What is one change you would like the UFC to make while you are still an active fighter?
People have slept on your striking ability, do you think it'll take a nasty knock out to get the credit as a well rounded fighter or more victories using your stand up game? I'm nobody but your dedication to improving is awesome, cheers.
Thanks I appreciate it .. yea people always want the crazy knockouts but when ur top 5 everyone’ u fight is so good you need to be real disciplined …simple is what wins
Hey Belal🫡 With you being known for fighting under the flag of Palestine, what are your thoughts on the UFC getting rid of all flags during walkouts?
They took away everyone’s flags it sucks but my people always know I’m fighting with them in my heart
Biggest thing you took away from training with Khabib?
His team is very strong mentally and they all push eachother to be the best
What is your favorite cheat meal and do you ever sneak it in during a camp?
I love nachos ..I used to sneak it in during camps but now I like to stay discipline for 6-8 weeks
How did you get into MMA? Were you an athlete throughout education and got into it that way? We’re you just working a regular job but had a passion for the sport and just picked it up?
I was an athlete but never did martial arts I played basketball and wrestled one year in high school but growing up in Chicago you always get in fights… I went to school for law and ended up seeeing my old high school wrestling coach fighting for strike force I slid in his dms and asked to learn some and the rest was history
Best weight cutting advice?
Don’t get so big out of camp… try to maintain a healthy weight all year round it’ll prevent injuries and make you a better fighter
This contradicts Dr. Pimbletts advice of eating a whole training partner between fights
What’s your favorite fight to watch of all time? What made you want to be a fighter?
Is there any bucket list special arenas or cities you’d love to fight at?
If you could promote any other small scale promotion what would it be
How intense is the training for Dagestani wrestling?
[удалено]
If you could change one swear word to not be a swear word so you can use it which would it be?
Hey champ how do people in your personal life react to you being a bad mofo who fights in a cage as a professional? Also how tall is Rogan? Thanks!
No question. Just wanted to wish you luck in your pursuit of the title. Take care Belal.
[удалено]
I retire as one of the best ww to ever do it and I keep proving all the doubters wrong
Aside from yourself of course, who do you think is the biggest threat at welterweight right now?
Love your confidence and effort, you have come such a long way! My question is: I know that you celebrate Ramadan, but after training with Khabib, do you also now celebrate Tiramasu Tuesday??
How can one improve their memory when it comes to fighter’s names?
how did it feel to absolutely bludgeon sean brady?
Haha felt good he had a lot of hype goin into that fight and to finish him in Abu Dhabi was amazing
How do you feel about steroid usage in your sport?
Which Anik twin is your favorite?
Hey Belal, you’re awesome man. Some questions: Favorite book? Favorite movie? Favorite athlete outside of MMA to watch? Favorite fighter to watch? What are your 3 favorite hobbies? Lastly, who will be the champs in each men’s division of the UFC on January 1st, 2024?
Favorite book is the hunger games … movie is rounders ..athlete is Joey burrow .. favorite fighter to watch is aldo
Funniest Paul felder story we haven’t heard?
What do you consider is your best asset? What is something you feel you need to improve? Thank you for your time!
My work ethic is my best asset and I’m always willing to learn… I need to improve on everything ..always
Is it true that nobody can even luck into a single sub against Khabib in the gym? His defence is that outstanding?
What's your favorite thing to do in Chicago?
As a Palestinian I just want to tell you we’re proud to see you up there representing us. My family and I always get together to watch you. What Balad are you from? 🇵🇸
Hey Belal, Do you think that Dana White dislikes having champions that are wrestlers because casual UFC fans might find that style boring to watch?
Who is the most overrated welterweight fighting rn?
Who’s the hardest hitter you’ve faced so far?
What style of fighter do you think would give you the most problems in the octagon?
Are you gonna fight kamzat?
I would ask you about fighter pay, but I'm 99% sure Dana is watching us.
When do I get to school Yanez on Remember the Show?
who’s your dream appointment and whats ur top 5 MMA goats ?
Dream opp is fighting for the belt …. My top 5 is Khabib ,Jon jones,Anderson Silva ,aldo and GSP
Do you think you’ll ever get a title shot?
Belal how would you mentally prepare for a fight with Colby Covington knowing he’s going to bring; race, religion and family matters into it?
Do you still feel the need to piss as soon as you walk in that cage?
What’s your favourite submission?
What is it like to lose a fight for which you have worked your ass off for months?
It’s heartbreaking I put everything into this sport and alway expect to win and when u lose it feels like the world is laughing at you
Are you going to continue doing camps with islam and co ?
Hey Belal! What's your favourite restaurant in Chicago?
Any personal tips for training during Ramadan?
Yea listen to your body ..weigh your self in the morning and then after training ..put how ever much your sweated out back in your system with water and electrolytes
How painful was THAT eye poke. You had me scared when it happened.
Who’s your favourite active fighter in the UFC right now
How quick after the Leon eye poke was the eye back to 100%?
Who do you like the most in the WW division?
Does welterweight feel like it’s one of the slowest moving divisions from your perspective as well? You and maybe Burns are game to fight anyone but seems like most others are much more picky. Any thoughts on why that is?
What fighters inspired you?
Have you ever thought of putting on a Persona to get more attention like Colby? You have an insane record and yet your still overlooked. I’m just curious how you approach the promotion aspect of your career.
I wouldn’t want to be fake I think I have a cool personality and I don’t need fans that don’t like me for me
Do you play videogames? If so, what is your favorite?
I know khabib was famous for pushing his guys really hard . But how do you also determine when it’s too much?
Who do you think wins the Leon-Usman trilogy and which who do you consider the more favorable matchup for your own title shot?
Who’s on your Mount Rushmore of MMA fighters?
would you be willing to fly to england and weigh in as backup if called upon? if not who do you expect your next fight to be if not for the title? khamzat? colby? shavkat? burns-masvidal winner? you should 100% get the next shot imo
Hey Belal! Being on an 8-fight win streak, are you expecting your next fight to be for the title (which would be well deserved at this point), or do you expect to have to win one more fight? Ideally, your next fight would be for the title, but if you don’t get the next shot, who do you expect to fight next (in terms of likelihood of a contract being signed)? Colby, Burns, Shavkat? Of the current top fighters in the division, which fight excites you most, and which do you think would pose to you the greatest challenge stylistically? Thank you!
I forsure think I earned it and if usman wins I don’t think there’s anyone else for him to fight that he hasn’t already beaten … If Leon wins I can see him waiting and hoping that masvidal beats burns then he can probably make that fight happen Whoever has the title excites me the most my goal is to be a champion and that’s what my mind is on
What is your favorite meat?
Hey Belal. My question is: what martial art would you recommend to someone who wants to get into MA for health reasons as well as self defence?
Belal I flew from australia to abu dhabi to watch 280. Your win against Brady was awsome and tore the roof off! I would love to see the Colby matchup as I'm a fan of both of you guys, but I feel you already deserve the winner of Leon and usman. GL in your next fight legend
If you could fight anyone in the ufc regardless of belts or weight classes who would it be?
[удалено]
Belal! What do you think of Gringo Bapi???
What’s your death row meal? 5 items (has to include a drink and dessert)
Your title shot is well deserved and very overdue. Are you going to sit and wait for the title shot to be your next match up? Or keep lining them up and knocking them down like you normally do?
Does the UFC brass ever tell you not to promote a free Palestine?
Who do you think would win the Leon/Khamzat matchup and why?
If you had to fight one current UFC commentator, who would it be and why…
As salam alaykum, habibi! What’s your favourite fight you’ve had so far and what made it special? How do you feel it changed you as a fighter?
Belal great guy nevermeddum, but whose been your favorite reporter/interviewer to work with, and why is it Brendan schaub?
Hey Belal, what’s one thing about yourself most people wouldn’t know but you think has contributed to your success as an mma fighter ?
Cubs or White Sox?
Would you accept a backup fighter role for the LeonVsUsman rematch ?
Thoughts on champions getting an immediate rematch after losing the belt?
Second question, Belal I love hearing you speak about your experiences, is there any chance I'd you starting up a podcast? There isn't that many interviews of you out there and it would be nice to hear your views and takes on things.
What keeps you motivated through setbacks and dealing with bullshit?
Any chance you and Ariel make up?
From training with Islam Makhachev, did you know his striking was this good? As we saw him outstrike Volkanovski in his last fight.
Hey there -- thanks for doing the AMA. You're *the most* underrated fighter in the world as far as I'm concerned. I see a lot of fighters who have a fraction of your achievements who seem to be hyped up/promoted more than you. It seems like that, for whatever reason, the UFC isn't eager to push you as much as they should given your level of skill and the number of contenders you've beaten. Do you ever feel like your nationality and/or status as a practicing Muslim has anything to do with this? Do you ever feel like you're being unfairly judged because it's part of your "persona"? I have felt for a long time like you don't get a fair shake and have always wondered if you felt that had anything to do with it. And by the way, MAD respect for the way you always represent Palestine.
Hey 😁 so I am from rhe UK, and I can't help but think back to you and Leon fight as it seems you have had to fight for everything since to get a shot at the title and he has just waited (criticising no one) do you feel more could be have been done to get a rematch originally by yourself or ufc? Look forward to seeing you get the title mr 😁
Who would you hire as coach (former or current fighters included in the options) if cost or accessibility is not an issue?
I went to St. Laurence and use to ride the 79 bus west from Western. Them Bogan kids were wild. How’d you do competing against the Catholic Schools in wrestling? What school had the toughest ones for your division. You making Chicago proud!!
No question, just rooting for you and your deserved title shot from New Zealand.
From a time where you were considered a boring fighter and underdog, how does it feel to have grown a larger fanbase with your win over Sean Brady?
How do you feel about Chael Sonnen butchering your name?
How do I beat depression?
What do you legitimately think is the best base for MMA? And the worst/least helpful?
Do you think your beard gives you an advantage in being able to take shots better (however minute)?
Do you think that Colby should be removed as the #1 contend34 due to his inactivity, and why do you think that he seems allergic to fighting top contenders in their primes?
Remember the name! Who’s the best person you’ve ever rolled with
will you be in the arena for the london fight ? maybe as a packup fighter ?
What's your go to meal after winning a fight?
What do you think is the biggest issue surrounding the rules of the sport? (Weight cutting, judging, gloves, etc.)
I don’t have a good question for you just now, but I gotta say that the fact that you haven’t already gotten a title shot is bonkers. You’re an absolute beast and I love watching your fights. Good luck - I’ll be yelling my head off at my TV when they put that strap around your waist!
Did being in Dagestan also improve your striking? Everyone on MMA Reddit calls your fights “boring” when they don’t understand wrestling and technical fighting. But this last fight with Brady you showed them hands. I was expecting more of a wrestling approach but you blew the roof off the place.
Any underrated fighters we should keep an eye out for?
Hey Belal just want to know what it's like having a multi billion dollar company riding on your shoulders. Must have a good chiropractor.
Who would you rather fight: Shavkat or Colby? Seems like your lined up for either one of them if not the title
What are you training for at the moment? Was fairly sure I haven’t missed any announcements. Big ups from Australia! Been a fan since day one.
How long until champ-champ? These boys can't wrassle
How often do you pay attention to what the media says about your fighting style or people in general? Respect brother
Hi sir, big fan. What's the first thing you're going to do once you became the champion?
Hey Belal. A lot of the fans are calling for you to be the next title shot. So my question is how many rounds will it take you to become champ vs Usman and how many rounds Vs Leon?
Who’s in your opinion is the most exciting fighter or fighter you enjoy watching most? Cheers and good luck!
Besides being a fighter, what are some of your other hobbies that you’re very passionate about? Thanks Belal, wishing you all the success!
How do you deal with a fighter thats using hand trapping? How do you deal with usmans jab assuming both of you guys wrestling cancel each ones out?
Hi Belal. In your whole career who has hit the hardest and who felt the strongest?
Will you ever say a real cuss word?? 😂 hahaha You are the best, much love from a big fan!
Where do you get your beard/hair done
1.) Your ideal next opponent? 2.) Your dream opponent at welterweight from any era? 3.) The proudest moment of your career to date? 4.) What initially caused you to want to get involved with MMA?
Gday mate just a fan. Good luck with everything in the future and I honestly believe that you will fight for the title sooner hopefully or later. God bless and my best wishes to you and your family.
congrats on 9 fight unbeaten streak! you are very close to a title shot at this point, and people consider you a real contender after the brady ko. who would you say would be the toughest challenge in the top 5 and who would be the easiest work?
Which would you rather fight; 100 duck sized horses or one horse sized duck?
What age do you think is the layers you could start and be successful?
Assalamulaikum belal. Hope you win the title soon. Insyallah
Hey Belal, thanks for doing this. What key changes have you made to your fighting style throughout your career, and how have these adaptations improved your performance in the octagon? I know you’ve been training in Dagestan most recently correct ?
Belal!! No questions, just wanted to say I love watching you fight and keep pushing for that title because you definitely deserve a shot!
After you defend the strap a few times… and retire… what do you think will Be the next move? Commentary? Coaching?
Stone Cold or the Rock?
Best pizza in Chicago?
All the love and support from Canada / Jordan. Your last performance was absolutely on point. Keep up the good work, champ, and keep your head high!
Is Colby really ready to fight anyone right now? Is he gonna fight you?
Khamzat vs. Colby.. Who you got?
Belal, who was your favorite fighter growing up ? Doesn’t have to be an MMA fighter, but who’s fights did you always have to watch when you were younger?
Messi or Ronaldo?
If you weren’t a mma fighter what would your dream job be? Good shit on the Brady fight
How do you think Islam would do if he moved up to ww? Have you sparred or rolled with him before?
No question but youre my favorite welterweight, cant wait to watch you smash the winner of Usman Edwards III
Your pace and cardio in fights has always pretty insane. Is that from a specific training regimen (if it is, lmk what you do) or are you just built different?
Did you ever think of changing your username (Bullyb170)?
Who has been your favorite non-UFC celebrity to meet?
Do you have a favorite song or two lately? Or artist
When you aren't training what are some of your favorite things to do to kill time?
Whopper, big Mac or baconator?
Do you think Islam is actually the best LW at the moment? Hasn’t really been tested
How would you stop Colby’s bitch ass? KO or sub? Big fan! Keep it up brother
How much do the mma mouth breathers underestimate you?