- George Chung
- Apr 30, 2024
- 2 min read
UFC has named lightweight fighter Beneil Dariush as the 2024 recipient of the Forrest Griffin Community Award. This accolade, named after UFC Hall of Famer Forrest Griffin, honors a UFC athlete each year for outstanding volunteer and charity work, and for their significant positive impact on the community.
The award is part of the UFC Honors President’s Choice category, with the recipient personally selected by UFC President & CEO Dana White. UFC Honors is an annual recognition program celebrating exceptional UFC athletes, performances, and memorable moments.
As the award winner, Beneil will receive a $25,000 donation for a charity of his choice, provided by the UFC Foundation. His contributions will be celebrated at the 2024 UFC Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony during the 12th Annual UFC International Fight Week. This event is scheduled for Thursday, June 27, at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas and will be live-streamed on UFC FIGHT PASS.
Dana White praised Beneil's efforts, stating, “Beneil does an incredible job giving back to his community. He sets a perfect example of how athletes should use their platforms to raise awareness and help those less fortunate. It’s an honor to present him with this award.”
Beneil began his philanthropic efforts in 2018 by collaborating with the Shlama Foundation, raising funds and awareness during his training periods. As a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai, he held meet-and-greets and training sessions where a portion of the proceeds supported the foundation.
After earning his first $50,000 performance bonus in 2019, Beneil funded two orphanages in Haiti through Promise Child Ministries, called Cap-Haitian Children’s Home. These facilities each accommodate over 20 students and are staffed with teachers, administrative employees, and custodians.
Promise Child, established in 2003, sponsors children in various countries, including Haiti, South Asia, and Uganda, aiming to empower underserved children through education, nutrition, shelter, and Gospel-centered care.
Additionally, Beneil contributes to his Southern California community by teaching jiu-jitsu and self-defense classes to youth at Kings MMA. He educates students aged 8 – 17 about the fundamentals of jiu-jitsu, self-defense, and nutrition five days a week.
Ranked as the no. 6 contender in the lightweight division, Beneil is a veteran of 29 fights, holding a record of 22-6-1 (16-6-1 UFC) since his debut in 2014. He is also a successful competitor in world jiu-jitsu championships, having secured three gold, two bronze, and four silver medals.
