Back in 2014 ‘Charlie’ was just a regular first name, 2015 gave it a whole new dimension, propelling it front seats to the International scene. ‘Charlie’ became synonym of freedom of speech for some, and profanation of sacred religious ideologies for others. Everyone participated in the ‘Charlie Hebdo’ debate, coming up with theories (some truthful and others quite far-fetched) creating a worldwide buzz that still holds until today.
As you already know, many MMA fighters are deeply religious and the Charlie Hebdo case certainly touched them in a way or another. We endeavored to interview Mohammad Ghorabi, a fine champion who never hid his dedication and respect to religion. His social media posts clearly reflect this fact and he was spotted on numerous occasions in holy places such as Mecca.
Ghorabi admitted that the topic is a sophisticated one that cannot be treated in a simplistic way. But he was crystal clear on one point: “I am against killing, and all Muslims are too”.
However, he considered that the satirical magazine disrespected Islam and the Prophet with its mocking caricatures and that Muslims reacted the right way by joining hands and protesting against such acts, even taking the magazine into court.
Ghorabi went on to express his disappointment in the French court who didn’t take any action, even though Charlie Hebdo managed to disrespect half the world’s population. To add salt to the wounds, the magazine proceeded in publishing more anti-Islam material, even after being warned and threatened.
According to the champ, the cartoonists had it coming:
“They chose this path, not Muslims. Again, that’s IF the Muslims are actually behind the attack. Go back in history and remember what the French did during the conquest of the Arab countries. They massacred woman and children…”
He added that the two murderers had enough sense of honor to avoid any collateral damage.
Finally, Ghorabi pointed one disturbing fact:
“The participation of the Israelian Benjamin Natanyaho in the protest alongside other state chiefs and politicians.”
Natanyaho is considered as the number one enemy in Lebanon and other Arab countries and is accused of perpetuating innumerable crimes (including freedom of expression ones). As Ghorabi said: It’s case closed!
