Home / News / Ariel Helwani and his colleagues no longer banned from UFC events

Ariel Helwani and his colleagues no longer banned from UFC events

By on June 7, 2016

ariel1

The UFC have released a statement stating that Ariel Helwani and his MMAFighting colleagues are no longer banned from receiving press credentials for UFC events.

The majority of MMA fans and media jumped to Ariel Helwani and his colleagues defence following the original decision to refuse their credentials after Helwani was told by UFC president Dana White that he was banned for life after Helwani had reported that Brock Lesnar would return to MMA before the UFC could announce the news themselves.

But as Ariel had hoped, cooler heads have prevailed and although the UFC did say that they still “believe the recurring tactics used by its lead reporter extended beyond the purpose of journalism” they have lifted the ban.

Here is the full statement:

“Following a conversation with the editorial team at SB Nation, UFC will not prevent MMAFighting.com from receiving media credentials to cover live UFC events. We respect the role the media plays in our sport and beyond, including MMAFighting’s ability to report news. However, in our opinion, we believe the recurring tactics used by its lead reporter extended beyond the purpose of journalism. We feel confident our position has now been adequately communicated to the SB Nation editorial team.

UFC’s goal as the world’s leading mixed martial arts promotion is to cultivate interest in its world-class athletes and events, and deliver for the fans. We will continue to introduce this sport and its athletes to new fans across the world, and we will do so by working alongside media across all platforms.”

Owner/Editor of SevereMMA.com. Writer, Podcaster, Producer of 'Notorious: Conor McGregor' film, 'Conor McGregor: Notorious' TV series, 'Ten Thousand Hours', 'The Fighting Irish' and more documentary films.
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