'Remember the Date': Chicago mayor declares Sept. 20 as Belal Muhammad Day to honor UFC champ

At first, it was “Remember the Name.” Now, it’s “Remember the Date.”

UFC welterweight champion Belal Muhammad has been honored by his hometown city of Chicago with a day in his name. Chicago mayor Brandon Johnson proclaimed Sept. 20 as Belal Muhammad Day during a ceremony Friday at Harold Washington Library Center.

“Proud to congratulate UFC Champion @bullyb170! First Palestinian-American (and @chipubschools grad) from the South Side of Chicago to win the title,” Johnson wrote on Instagram Stories.

“REMEMBER THE DATE Honored and blessed Chicago we got our own day …love my city,” Muhammad wrote on Instagram.

The honor for Muhammad comes 55 days after becoming the UFC welterweight champion by defeating Leon Edwards in the UFC 304 main event.

The fight was a rematch from their first meeting in March 2021, which ended in a no contest due to a second-round eye poke that prevented Muhammad from continuing. After winning five more fights against the best competition available, Muhammad finally got his title opportunity and made the most of it by winning a dominant unanimous decision.

Muhammad’s first title defense has not yet been scheduled, but since his victory, he’s been enjoying the accomplishment by sharing the moment with his community.