UFC Star Beneil returns for a crucial clash in Madison Square Garden
The Assyrian-American UFC star, known for his outspoken advocacy of Assyrian causes, is set for a pivotal match that could pave the way to a UFC lightweight title shot.
Assyrian-American lightweight contender Beneil Dariush is set to face Frenchman Benoît Saint-Denis at UFC 322 on November 15 at Madison Square Garden in New York City.
This pivotal matchup marks Dariush's return to the octagon following his impressive decision win over Brazilian former title contender Renato Moicano at UFC 317. The fight is a crucial step in what could be Dariush’s final run toward a UFC lightweight title shot, a pursuit that has defined much of his decade-long career at the sport’s highest level. A win for Dariush would reaffirm his status among the world’s elite and keep his championship ambitions alive.
From Urmia to the World Stage
Beneil Khobier Dariush was born in Geotapeh, an Assyrian village near Urmia in northwestern Iran. At the age of nine, his family emigrated to the United States, settling in California.
Growing up in a new country, Dariush found discipline and identity through martial arts. He excelled rapidly in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, earning his black belt in under five years under the guidance of renowned instructors Bruno Paulista and Romulo Barral–a remarkable achievement that hinted at his future success.
He made his UFC debut in 2014, and over the next decade became one of the sport’s most respected competitors, known not just for his powerful grappling and relentless pace, but also for his humility, professionalism, and open pride in his Assyrian heritage and Christian faith.
Over the years, Dariush climbed the ranks of the UFC’s most competitive division, defeating top contenders such as Tony Ferguson, Carlos Diego Ferreira, and Drew Dober. In 2023, he achieved a career-high ranking of number three in the world, putting him within reach of a title shot before suffering setbacks against Charles Oliveira and Arman Tsarukyan. His victory over Moicano earlier this year proved that even after more than a decade at the elite level, the 36-year-old veteran remains a force in the UFC’s lightweight division, and one of the most skilled grapplers the sport has ever seen.
Faith, Family, and the Assyrian Spirit
Beyond his achievements inside the cage, Dariush has become a symbol of resilience and pride for Assyrians around the world. He has used his platform to support Assyrian humanitarian organizations, including the Shlama Foundation and the Assyrian Aid Society, hosting seminars and fundraisers to help Assyrians in Assyria and across the diaspora.
He has spoken openly about the importance of faith, family, and identity, reminding young Assyrians that discipline and perseverance can take them anywhere, from a small village in Urmia to the global stage of the UFC. To many Assyrians, Dariush’s journey represents more than sporting success; it is a living example of what it means to carry the Assyrian name with integrity and pride on the world stage.
