Kosport Magazine: Beneil Dariush Wins Prestigious Forrest Griffin Community Award
In the world of mixed martial arts, it takes more than just skill and determination to be a true champion. It also takes heart and a desire to give back to the community. That’s why the Forrest Griffin Community Award, presented annually by UFC CEO Dana White, is such a prestigious honor. And this year, the deserving recipient is none other than Beneil Dariush.
Dariush, a top-ranked fighter in the lightweight division, has been recognized for his charitable efforts with the Shlama Foundation and Promise Child Ministries. These organizations work to provide aid and support to those in need, both in Dariush’s ancestral homeland of Assyria and in Haiti.
White himself had high praise for Dariush, stating in a press release, ”Beneil sets a perfect example of how athletes should use their platforms to raise awareness for the charitable causes they care about the most while helping those who are less fortunate. It’s an honor to present him with this award.”
Dariush, a devout Christian, has been working with the Shlama Foundation since 2018, using his platform as a professional athlete to raise funds and awareness for their cause. He also began working with Promise Child Ministries in 2019, using his Performance Bonus checks to fund orphanages in Haiti.
In response to the announcement, Dariush remained humble and grateful, saying, “Thank you UFC and Dana White. I’m humbled and honored to receive this. Praise the Lord!”
“Thank you UFC [and] Dana White. I’m humbled and honored to receive this. Praise the lord!”
Dariush joins an elite group of past winners, including Dustin Poirier, Max Holloway, Giga Chikadze, and the legendary Nogueira brothers. He will be officially honored at the Hall of Fame induction ceremony on June 27 in Las Vegas, and will also receive a $25,000 donation to the charity of his choice.
Kosport Magazine: A Champion Inside and Outside the Octagon
Beneil Dariush’s recognition as the 2024 Forrest Griffin Community Award winner is a testament to his character and dedication to making a positive impact in the world. Not only is he a top-ranked fighter in the UFC, but he also uses his platform to raise awareness and support for important causes. Dariush’s selfless actions serve as an inspiration to all athletes and show that true champions are not just defined by their wins and losses, but also by their contributions to society. Congratulations to Beneil Dariush on this well-deserved honor.
