“It’s free speech.” These were the words of UFC boss Dana White earlier this year when asked at a Power Slap press conference whether he would take action against featherweight contender Bryce Mitchell. Mitchell had sparked controversy by calling Adolf Hitler a “good guy” and making derogatory remarks about Jews. At the time, White stood by his stance on free speech. However, he likely never imagined that his own words would come back to challenge him. This week, reigning 170lbs champion Belal Muhammad, used that very statement to call out the UFC for refusing to display his national flag, Palestine, on his fighter profile.

Muhammad, who is set to face Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 315 in May, took center stage as fans noticed that, while other fighters had their national flags displayed beside their names, his was missing. This controversy isn’t new—fans voiced backlash at UFC 304 when the same issue occurred, heavily criticizing Dana White and Co. Once again, the debate over politics in MMA has resurfaced, an issue the UFC has often tried to sidestep.

But as a champion, Belal Muhammad didn’t stay silent. He posted a video on social media, stating: “Dana [White] says he’s all about free speech… I’m hoping that the UFC fixes this issue and puts my flag next to my name.” The backlash from fans and fighters alike was swift. Former UFC fighter Jake Shields also weighed in, directing criticism at the UFC and its parent company, Endeavor. Shields didn’t stop there, accusing Endeavor CEO Ari Emanuel of alleged family ties to the Irgun, a controversial Zionist paramilitary group.

As the pressure grew, Dana White personally intervened, assuring Belal Muhammad that the issue would be resolved by the end of the night. Recently, ‘Remember The Name’ took to social media to express his gratitude for White’s intervention, saying, ” I Just want to give a quick shoutout to Dana. Talked to him—he said flags are back up tonight, apologized, and that’s why I love the UFC. I love this company, and that’s why Dana is the man.”

“The only organization that lets you be yourself, stays true to his word, and doesn’t let other people sway his attitude or decisions. So, shoutout to Dana, shoutout to the UFC, and the flag is back, baby!” the Illinois native continued.

The UFC’s relationship with flags has always been prominent, with fighters proudly carrying their flags into the Octagon. However, in 2022, the UFC imposed a ban on flags being brought into the arena. In 2023, Dana White, as CEO, reversed this decision, a move many saw as a response to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. While flags have now returned to the Octagon, it remains uncertain whether Belal Muhammad’s flag will be displayed on his UFC fighter profile anytime soon.

Throwback: Belal Muhammad’s Message for Palestinian Children Amidst War

“Every war is a war against children,” a powerful statement made by Eglantyne Jebb. If you doubt it, just watch the 1988 war drama Grave of the Fireflies, a film that vividly depicts how children suffer in the midst of war. This ongoing reality is especially true in places like Israel and Palestine, where countless children have endured unimaginable hardship. According to the United Nations, since October 2023, 17,400 children have tragically lost their lives in Gaza.

Belal Muhammad, despite being born and raised in the United States, has always remained deeply connected to the struggles of his homeland. After dethroning Leon Edwards to claim the welterweight throne, ‘Remember The Name’ asserted himself as the new leader of the 170lbs division with an impressive performance.

As part of his victory celebration, the champion made a powerful gesture by raising his flag inside the Octagon, setting an example for the youth in Palestine and offering them a role model to look up to. In a heartfelt message shared on social media, Belal reached out to the children of his home country, encouraging them to remain strong:

“My message to the children of Palestine is to keep fighting,” Muhammad said. “You’re the real warriors, you’re the real champions. When I look at you and see your strength, it just makes me realize how weak I am. You’re stronger than me, you’re bigger than I am, you guys are giants. You’re changing the world, and that’s bigger than what I’m doing. So keep doing it, and keep fighting.”

What’s your take on Dana White and the UFC’s decision to not display Belal Muhammad‘s flag on their website? Do you think it was merely a human error, or is there some credence to Jake Shields’ comments regarding Ari Emanuel’s involvement? Share your thoughts below.