Fresh off his historic victory to become the WBA, IBF, and IBO super welterweight world champion, Julian “J-Rock” Williams joined TheDeenShow for an exclusive interview to share what fueled his rise to the top and why his first instinct after winning the biggest fight of his life was not a chest bump or victory dance, but a prostration of gratitude to Allah on the canvas in front of the entire world.
Sujood of Gratitude on the World Stage
When asked about the viral moment of him making sajdah (prostration) immediately after his hand was raised, Julian explained it was simply the only natural response. As a Muslim, he strives to keep himself in the remembrance of Allah at all times, and that moment was the greatest blessing of his life. His unapologetic display of faith at a time when Islamophobia is at an all-time high inspired Muslims from Pakistan to Palestine and everywhere in between. He followed it by declaring “Alhamdulillah” and wishing the entire Muslim ummah a blessed Ramadan.
“That’s the only thing to do — just thank Allah because the blessing comes directly from Allah. I’m not going to embarrass myself, I’m not going to embarrass Islam trying to sell a fight. That’s just not my way.”
Patience, Prayer, and the Path to Championship
Julian revealed that he did not achieve the championship when he first wanted it. Instead, he practiced patience, kept making dua (supplication), and focused on being the best Muslim he could be. He credits his belts entirely to Allah’s blessings, noting that he has no superpowers — just dedication, strong iman (faith), and consistent prayer. He showed remarkable sportsmanship by publicly thanking his opponent’s family for their class, a direct reflection of Islamic teachings about honoring others.
“I don’t got superpowers. I just got really good dedication and I’m a Muslim and I make plenty of duas and I have strong iman — that’s it. If somebody looks at me, they can do anything.”
Lessons from Muhammad Ali, Malcolm X, and Khabib
- Julian deeply admires Muhammad Ali not for his boxing but for standing up for his people and putting his career on the line for justice, calling him “such a great dude”
- He echoes Khabib Nurmagomedov’s three principles: stay humble, stay connected to God, stay connected to prayer
- His message to youth: find something you are truly passionate about, chase your dream, believe in yourself, and most importantly believe in Allah
- He reminds young Muslims that you do not have to be perfect to be Muslim — keep praying, keep trying, and never let mistakes push you away from your faith
