One of the biggest stories to come out of UFC 199 was the UFC’s (quickly overturned) decision to ban journalists Ariel Helwani, Esther Lin and E. Casey Lydon for releasing news of Brock Lesnar’s UFC 200 return before the promotion was able to make its own announcement. While many disagreed with the ban, it’s understandable that promoters experience constant frustration with trying to release information in a way they feel will be most impactful. Reporters, however, have the responsibility to dig up those stories and report them in the interest of a well-informed readership. Related: With UFC 199, a great night was spoiled by a petty media banning The back-and-forth interplay is one of the most complex parts of the way MMA promoters and media – each of which needs the other – interact on a daily basis.
Read more here:
WSOF President Ray Sefo discusses difficulty of not getting scooped by reporters – MMA Junkie