Belal Muhammad isn’t just one of the smartest and most disciplined fighters in the UFC welterweight division—he’s also one of the most inspiring. Fans love him for his pace, toughness, and strong identity. But many still wonder: Where did Belal Muhammad actually grow up? Where does he live now? And where does he train while preparing for UFC fights?
This guide breaks down all of it in a friendly, easy-to-read way.
Belal Muhammad’s Early Life: Chicago Roots
Belal Muhammad was born on July 9, 1988, in Chicago, Illinois, to Palestinian immigrant parents. He grew up on Chicago’s southwest side, in a neighborhood filled with culture, diversity, and everyday challenges that shaped his toughness early.
Growing up in Chicago gave him:
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A strong sense of identity
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A gritty mentality
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Exposure to both American and Palestinian traditions
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A competitive spirit from a young age
Belal attended Bogan High School, where he first discovered wrestling. Even though he was involved in different sports, wrestling became the foundation that would later fuel his MMA career.
A key influence at this stage was Louis Taylor, a future PFL champion who helped guide Belal during his high-school wrestling journey.
College Years and First Step into MMA
Belal attended the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, but instead of pursuing a traditional career path, combat sports began taking over his focus.
He trained during weekends, balanced life between school and amateur fighting, and slowly built the groundwork for what would become a world-class career.
What makes his rise unique is that he didn’t come from a big training facility early on. Instead, he grew from:
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Local gyms
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Weekend sessions
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A supportive community
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A willingness to outwork everyone else
That humble beginning is the reason fans still call him “one of the hardest workers in MMA.”
Where Does Belal Muhammad Live Now?
While Belal proudly reps Chicago as his hometown everywhere he goes, his professional life requires him to move around for fight camps.
You can think of his “home base” in two ways:
✔ Personal Home:
He still considers Chicago, Illinois his true home. His family, roots, and personal life remain tied to the city.
✔ Professional Fight-Camp Home:
Belal splits time between Chicago and elite MMA gyms across the U.S., depending on training needs and upcoming opponents.
This flexible lifestyle is common for UFC fighters who want the best possible team around them for each fight.
Where Does Belal Muhammad Train?
Belal has trained at several gyms throughout his career, but the most notable and impactful has been:
Roufusport MMA Academy – Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Roufusport is one of the premier gyms in North America. It has produced world champions and elite competitors, offering high-level striking, grappling, and conditioning.
Training at Roufusport allowed Belal to level up his skills by sparring with top athletes and learning under respected MMA coaches.
Training at Roufusport helped him refine:
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His pressure-heavy striking style
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His world-class cardio and pace
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His wrestling-based control
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His fight IQ and game planning
Belal also travels to other camps when needed, proving he’s willing to adapt and learn from different training partners—a key reason he became one of the most well-rounded fighters in the welterweight division.
How His Background Shaped Him as a Fighter
Belal’s upbringing and training journey aren’t just a story—they actively show up in the cage.
1. Chicago Built His Mental Toughness
Growing up in a challenging environment taught him discipline and focus early.
2. His Palestinian Heritage Inspires Him
He often mentions that he fights for more than just himself—family, culture, and community keep him motivated.
3. Wrestling Became His Base
His high-school wrestling roots gave him the cardio, pressure, and control that now define his UFC style.
4. Elite MMA Camps Polished His All-Around Game
Roufusport and other top gyms sharpened his striking and strategy, turning him into a championship-level athlete.
Why Fans Respect Belal Muhammad So Much
Belal isn’t the flashiest fighter. He doesn’t rely on one-punch knockouts or viral moments. Instead, his game is built on:
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Consistency
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High fight IQ
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Smart preparation
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Relentless pressure
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Mental durability
His journey from Chicago to elite MMA camps shows that you don’t need a perfect start—you need focus, discipline, and self-belief.
Final Thoughts
Belal Muhammad’s story is the perfect example of what hard work can create. He grew up in Chicago, sharpened his skills through wrestling, evolved through elite MMA training, and built a career rooted in discipline and identity.
Whether you’re a UFC fan, a new MMA follower, or simply someone interested in fighter backgrounds, Belal’s journey proves that greatness can come from anywhere when passion meets preparation.
