Dana White’s hypocrisy called out by Palestinian champ Belal Muhammad over Sean Strickland bias

UFC welterweight champion Belal Muhammad calls out CEO Dana White over showing preference for Sean Strickland.


Dana White’s hypocrisy called out by Palestinian champ Belal Muhammad over Sean Strickland bias

Belal Muhammad believes Sean Strickland gets unfair Dana White privilege (via Imago/X)

Throughout UFC history, CEO Dana White has often been accused of showing favoritism toward certain fighters. Many believe that the controversial Sean Strickland is one of his current favorites. However, UFC welterweight champion Belal Muhammad doesn’t appear to enjoy the same level of support.

Muhammad had to struggle a lot in order for White to give him the title shot against Leon Edwards. He dominated the former champion and took home a convincing win; however, it didn’t impress White, who wanted more. In a recent interview, Muhammad exposed the CEO’s hypocrisy by taking Strickland’s example. 

I walked through them. Then you’ll see Strickland this weekend not do anything, and Dana White’s like, ‘Man, he’s so tough, so professional’. Being in the cage is way different. Even when he broke his nose, he manned up. I was like, ‘Bro, that was the worst title fight I’ve ever seen in my life. Worst title challenger performance, and you’re trying to put him on a pedestal. I’m like, ‘Bro, get out of here with that’.

Belal Muhammad via Barstool Chicago 

Strickland recently lost the middleweight title rematch against Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 312. Ahead of the fight, he promised to fight to the death and provide a war, but the reality was different. His performance was criticized by the fans, who wanted Strickland to take charge instead of defending throughout the fight. 

Strickland also had a fallout with his coaching staff as Erick Nicksick was unimpressed by the fighter’s lack of intent during the fight. However, despite all this, Dana White didn’t stop praising the ‘Tarzan’. Given the history between Strickland and Muhammad, it would be interesting for both of them to potentially fight each other. 

The bad blood between Belal Muhammad and Sean Strickland 

The rivalry between Sean Strickland and Belal Muhammad stems from contrasting personalities and mutual disdain. Strickland’s outspoken, controversial nature has led him to make fun of Muhammad’s religion and support for Palestine. Strickland doesn’t like Muhammad and has suggested that he leave America and move to Palestine.

Belal Muhammad wants to fight Sean Strickland
Belal Muhammad wants to fight Sean Strickland (via X )

On the other hand, Muhammad has often poked fun at Strickland for deceiving his fans. Their tension reflects a broader clash of values, fueling speculation about a potential showdown in the octagon. In an interview, the fighter has also asked Dana White to make that fight. 

I hate Sean Strickland. Sean Strickland is a clown. If I ever get a chance to fight him I would definitely do it. I would sign it on the dotted line…. Dana, c’mon sign us up. 

Belal Muhammad via The Schmo’s YouTube channel 
YouTube video

Belal Muhammad has also talked about potentially moving up and fighting Dricus Du Plessis for the middleweight title. However, many fans and experts don’t think it’s the best idea for Muhammad. Nevertheless, it would be interesting to see his first-ever welterweight title defense.