A small group of energetic young teens sat calmly as they waited for Elijah “EZ” Muhammaed to enter the gym. According to EZ, the kids typically get together and have a group chat before their workout. The chat gives them a chance to voice their opinions and concerns and be heard.
EZ let us know that today’s chat would be different. He knew that the senseless killing of Daunte Wright would somehow be the focus of the group discussion that day. As he spoke, I could only imagine the frustration, anger, and sadness he must have felt.
Just over a year ago, after the senseless murder of George Floyd, Elijah worked to start project ONYX, a nonprofit organziation that has the specific goal to empower and enrich the lives of the youth in his community.
As we signed off and allowed EZ to be a mentor and coach to those kids, I realized how focused and committed he was to his family and community. Our interview started in his home, and while giving BWE his full attention, he engaged with his family when needed, then got into his car and drove to his gym to be there for the kids. It is this type of commitment and loyalty to family, fitness, and community that drove Elijah to be one of Crossfits top athletes.
Listen to this episode to learn about his humble beginnings from the slums of Ohio to becoming one of the fittest men in the world and competing at the highest levels of Crossfit.