Renowned MMA fighter Jeffery William Monson, an American-born Russian Mixed Martial Artist, embraced Islam. Former World Champion boxer publicly announced his conversion to Islam.
He announced his conversion to Islam in a widely circulated video clip in which he pronounced Shahada, the Islamic declaration of faith on June 20th, 2024, under the guidance of an Islamic scholar at the Islamic Center in Moscow.
“This journey has been one of profound transformation,” remarked Monson during a press conference following the event. “Over the years, I have sought meaning and purpose in my life, and I found that Islam resonates with my values and beliefs. It provides me with a sense of peace and fulfillment that I have been searching for.”
“I embraced Islam to be with my brothers and sisters in these difficult times in Palestine,” said Monson.
“I deliberately adopt Islam. I would like to stand shoulder to shoulder-with my brothers during this complicated time. I have been thinking about it a lot, but this is a decisive step,” Monson affirmed.
Jeffery was born in St. Paul, Minnesota. He is known for his jiu-jitsu success, having won several world championship titles. He renounced his US nationality and gained Russian nationality in 2018. He has a record of 60 victories and 26 defeats. In September 2023, he was elected as the deputy of the State Assembly of Bashkortostan from the Russian United Party.
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Back in March, American Rapper Jonathan H Smith, also popularly known as Lil Jon converted to Islam. He posted a message on his Instagram account expressing gratitude for the support to him.
The news was shared in an online shared on Instagram in which Jon was heard reciting Shahada, the Islamic declaration of faith, both in Arabic and English in a mosque in Los Angeles.
In the video shared online, the rapper publicized his conversion to Islam.
In recent years, there has been a noticeable trend of influential figures embracing Islam, including Lil Jon, known for popular songs like ‘Yeah’, ‘Turn Down for What’, ‘Let’s Go’, ‘Get Low’, and ‘Act a Fool’. This growing list includes individuals from various backgrounds, such as renowned stem cell scientist Henry Larson and activist Shaun King, who have converted to Islam.