Any thoughts on your DMs with Catalina White being made public? Honestly, I went through them (it took less than a minute), and I didn’t see anything damning. It just looks like you know her and enjoy some lighthearted banter.
It seems people are blowing this out of proportion because you’re now "Netflix Helwani" and, naturally, a bigger name than ever. What’s your response to those trying to tarnish your reputation?
However, yall gotta start putting some respect on Cyborg's name. If there were a MMA mount Rushmore, Cyborg would have to be on it. Please consider these 3 quick points.
1. If Jones and Anderson are eligible then she is eligible.
2. She started in 2005, won a Major title in 2009 and then won another Major title 15 years later.
3. She is 17-1 in title fights, and 7-0 in title fights since her last loss. Compare that to Anderson, Aldo or even Nunes who is 2-0 since her last loss.
You cannot tell the story of Woman's MMA, at any point, without mentioning Chris. Please give her thre respect that she deserves.
I mean no disrespect toward the UFC—I genuinely enjoy their content and recognize their sensitivity to criticism—but I have to ask: why is Kron Gracie still in the UFC?
It’s baffling that they continue to back him and even give him significant opportunities after his last disastrous performance. Meanwhile, they let go of real talent like Muhammad Mokaev and keep fighters like Aljamain Sterling and Movsar Evloev buried on the prelims.
Sure, some might argue those fighters are “boring,” but what exactly is Kron bringing to the table?
In your opinion, what personality makes a fighter more intriguing, unapologetic confidence like Conor, Chael, Ilia, Jon, etc.. or humble underdog mentality like GSP, DJ, Volk, Max, DC, etc…
After the tape delay betting fiasco of a couple years ago, pfl Europe being not watchable in America, hype of Jake Paul signing diminished, no opponent for Francis, Kayla gone, Don being unrealistic, and the only halfway decent cards being PPV. How do you see their future going now compared to when they signed Jake and Francis at the time?
Yes I get as 'fight fans' we all want to see Jones v Aspinall to unify the heavyweight division. But the Jones v Poatan fight has more mainstream or casual appeal. Aspinall is a huge name for 'fight fans' but he isn't really known outside of MMA circles. Poatan's world tour only shows his mainstream profile (and although not the perfect measure he has 6 times the Insta followers), he's known to people who aren't just fight fans. Then if the UFC is operating as a business (where maximizing profits is the priority) then this is surely the more likely fight?
Shalom Ariel. Often you have reacted to MMA and Sporting events to provide some brilliant and viral takes. However last Thursday, we were blessed with what seemed like 90 minutes straight of GC, Frankie and NYG discussing Gout in what was probably the funniest this show has ever been. My question is, when you gave these boys their own show, did you have any idea that within a few weeks it would just be pumping out non-stop content about Ric’s long-hidden condition?
Hola Ariel and the boys in the back! Thinking about upcoming lightweight matchmaking, how do Brian Ortega (who is presumed to be moving up) and Max Holloway fit into the mix? I wouldn’t be mad at Chandler v Ortega and Max v Hooker. Also considering that Dana said he will let Islam move up if he beats Tsarukyan, what does that mean for Charles? Do they do a Tsarukyan rematch with Olivera? Max v Charles? Very excited for this division to play out next year!
Hello Ariel! Shoutout to my guy Petesy! Happy Thanksgiving to all.
I’d like to hear your thoughts on this Saturday’s Survivor Series from Vancouver?
I’m particularly interested in the Bloodline vs Bloodline War Games match. The OG Bloodline team includes Roman Reigns, Jey and Jimmy Uso, Sami Zayn, and now CM Punk, who was recently added as the 5th member by the returning Wiseman Paul Heyman. They are facing off against the New Bloodline led by Tribal Chief Solo Sikoa, Jacob Fatu, Tama Tonga, Tonga Loa, and Big Bronson Reed.
Do you think The Rock gets involved? How do you see this all playing out??
The best there is, the best there was, and the best there ever will be. Ariel Ten Seven Helwani
Question for everyone. in an interview recently Dana let it slip that Conor is constantly hounding him to ge a fight for him. And in almost the same sentence he said Conor will likely not be fighting until late next year!! Isn't this basically admitting the UFC is the reason McGregor has faught in so long?
Conor is constantly talking about how he only has 2 fights left on his contract. I'm convinced this is basically another Nganouu situation, just with less bad blood. The UFC doesn't want Conor to fight out his contract which is seems like he trying to do so he can go fight for BKFC and pump up the promotion he is part owner of do you guys agree??
Hello Ariel, huge UK fan here. Why can you not admit that your ability to holistically look at the Tyson V Paul bout is slightly coloured by your profesional relationship with it. You may not be paid by the promoter, but would you not admit that you a vested interest in being positive about the bout? If you were hyper critical couldn’t MVP or even Netflix refuse to work with you? As I say big fan!
Your words in Sunday’s email deeply resonated with me. My empathy for the Jewish community has grown even stronger recently as I’ve been exploring books on World War II.
I’d encourage everyone to read Ordinary Men by Christopher R. Browning for a close and unsettling look at the atrocities suffered by the Jewish community during those dark times.
To balance the heaviness of that book, I’d recommend pairing it with Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl.
One book reveals how ordinary people can become instruments of tyranny under the wrong circumstances. The other offers insight into enduring even the most unimaginable hardships brought on by that same tyranny.
Understanding is the best path to empathy and we need more of that now. Stay strong, Helwani. Brighter days lie ahead. CHAMA
I thought, given the current climate, I'd like to ask you all if you remember when Luis Pena was released from the UFC following his arrest on charges of battery and domestic violence in October 2021.
As per MMA Fighting Oct 2021:
Statement from UFC
“UFC is aware of the disturbing allegations concerning the recent arrest of Luis Pena,” UFC officials said in a statement first reported by TMZ. “Mr. Pena has been open about his struggles with mental health and substance abuse issues and the organization has on multiple prior occasions attempted to help him get professional treatment. “At this time, UFC believes Mr. Pena needs to deal with the health and legal issues in front of him, and consequently has informed Mr. Pena’s management that his promotional agreement has been terminated.”
Interesting to note that the charges against ex-UFC fighter Luis Pena were dismissed the following year July 2023.
So..... are we waiting for a statement from the UFC or are different fighters held to different standards based on how many millions of dollars of revenue they can bring ????
When you were forming Uncrown - was there any interest to bring/acquire the Morning Kombat show/people to be under the same umbrella? Or is it too similar to your content to bring over? Thanks!
I just saw the Mr. McMahon doc (I know very little of pro wrestling) and thought it was very interesting/entertaining. I noticed some similarities to the UFC's history. In the future - when they make a doc like this about the UFC - how do you think they will cover Dana White's era in the company (positive/negative)? Also to your best guess -what will be the biggest change when Dana leaves? Thanks!
Hi Ariel,
Any thoughts on your DMs with Catalina White being made public? Honestly, I went through them (it took less than a minute), and I didn’t see anything damning. It just looks like you know her and enjoy some lighthearted banter.
It seems people are blowing this out of proportion because you’re now "Netflix Helwani" and, naturally, a bigger name than ever. What’s your response to those trying to tarnish your reputation?
Ariel, I acknowledge you as my tribal chief.
However, yall gotta start putting some respect on Cyborg's name. If there were a MMA mount Rushmore, Cyborg would have to be on it. Please consider these 3 quick points.
1. If Jones and Anderson are eligible then she is eligible.
2. She started in 2005, won a Major title in 2009 and then won another Major title 15 years later.
3. She is 17-1 in title fights, and 7-0 in title fights since her last loss. Compare that to Anderson, Aldo or even Nunes who is 2-0 since her last loss.
You cannot tell the story of Woman's MMA, at any point, without mentioning Chris. Please give her thre respect that she deserves.
Hey Ariel, did you find out anything about the Izzy vs Imavov fight??
Shalom Aleiche, Habibi,
I mean no disrespect toward the UFC—I genuinely enjoy their content and recognize their sensitivity to criticism—but I have to ask: why is Kron Gracie still in the UFC?
It’s baffling that they continue to back him and even give him significant opportunities after his last disastrous performance. Meanwhile, they let go of real talent like Muhammad Mokaev and keep fighters like Aljamain Sterling and Movsar Evloev buried on the prelims.
Sure, some might argue those fighters are “boring,” but what exactly is Kron bringing to the table?
He's 36 as well not like he's a young prospect. They're keeping him for his last name.
Hey Ariel,
Hoping all the boys can weigh in on this:
In your opinion, what personality makes a fighter more intriguing, unapologetic confidence like Conor, Chael, Ilia, Jon, etc.. or humble underdog mentality like GSP, DJ, Volk, Max, DC, etc…
Congrats on the new show!
Thanks
Also dig this question, hope it gets an answer from the crew!!
Thanks!
Ariel, let’s talk PFL for a second.
After the tape delay betting fiasco of a couple years ago, pfl Europe being not watchable in America, hype of Jake Paul signing diminished, no opponent for Francis, Kayla gone, Don being unrealistic, and the only halfway decent cards being PPV. How do you see their future going now compared to when they signed Jake and Francis at the time?
Yes I get as 'fight fans' we all want to see Jones v Aspinall to unify the heavyweight division. But the Jones v Poatan fight has more mainstream or casual appeal. Aspinall is a huge name for 'fight fans' but he isn't really known outside of MMA circles. Poatan's world tour only shows his mainstream profile (and although not the perfect measure he has 6 times the Insta followers), he's known to people who aren't just fight fans. Then if the UFC is operating as a business (where maximizing profits is the priority) then this is surely the more likely fight?
Shalom Ariel. Often you have reacted to MMA and Sporting events to provide some brilliant and viral takes. However last Thursday, we were blessed with what seemed like 90 minutes straight of GC, Frankie and NYG discussing Gout in what was probably the funniest this show has ever been. My question is, when you gave these boys their own show, did you have any idea that within a few weeks it would just be pumping out non-stop content about Ric’s long-hidden condition?
Hola Ariel and the boys in the back! Thinking about upcoming lightweight matchmaking, how do Brian Ortega (who is presumed to be moving up) and Max Holloway fit into the mix? I wouldn’t be mad at Chandler v Ortega and Max v Hooker. Also considering that Dana said he will let Islam move up if he beats Tsarukyan, what does that mean for Charles? Do they do a Tsarukyan rematch with Olivera? Max v Charles? Very excited for this division to play out next year!
Hello Ariel! Shoutout to my guy Petesy! Happy Thanksgiving to all.
I’d like to hear your thoughts on this Saturday’s Survivor Series from Vancouver?
I’m particularly interested in the Bloodline vs Bloodline War Games match. The OG Bloodline team includes Roman Reigns, Jey and Jimmy Uso, Sami Zayn, and now CM Punk, who was recently added as the 5th member by the returning Wiseman Paul Heyman. They are facing off against the New Bloodline led by Tribal Chief Solo Sikoa, Jacob Fatu, Tama Tonga, Tonga Loa, and Big Bronson Reed.
Do you think The Rock gets involved? How do you see this all playing out??
The best there is, the best there was, and the best there ever will be. Ariel Ten Seven Helwani
Question for everyone. in an interview recently Dana let it slip that Conor is constantly hounding him to ge a fight for him. And in almost the same sentence he said Conor will likely not be fighting until late next year!! Isn't this basically admitting the UFC is the reason McGregor has faught in so long?
Conor is constantly talking about how he only has 2 fights left on his contract. I'm convinced this is basically another Nganouu situation, just with less bad blood. The UFC doesn't want Conor to fight out his contract which is seems like he trying to do so he can go fight for BKFC and pump up the promotion he is part owner of do you guys agree??
Hello Ariel, huge UK fan here. Why can you not admit that your ability to holistically look at the Tyson V Paul bout is slightly coloured by your profesional relationship with it. You may not be paid by the promoter, but would you not admit that you a vested interest in being positive about the bout? If you were hyper critical couldn’t MVP or even Netflix refuse to work with you? As I say big fan!
Hi Ariel,
Your words in Sunday’s email deeply resonated with me. My empathy for the Jewish community has grown even stronger recently as I’ve been exploring books on World War II.
I’d encourage everyone to read Ordinary Men by Christopher R. Browning for a close and unsettling look at the atrocities suffered by the Jewish community during those dark times.
To balance the heaviness of that book, I’d recommend pairing it with Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl.
One book reveals how ordinary people can become instruments of tyranny under the wrong circumstances. The other offers insight into enduring even the most unimaginable hardships brought on by that same tyranny.
Understanding is the best path to empathy and we need more of that now. Stay strong, Helwani. Brighter days lie ahead. CHAMA
Hi Ariel and Boys in the Back,
I thought, given the current climate, I'd like to ask you all if you remember when Luis Pena was released from the UFC following his arrest on charges of battery and domestic violence in October 2021.
As per MMA Fighting Oct 2021:
Statement from UFC
“UFC is aware of the disturbing allegations concerning the recent arrest of Luis Pena,” UFC officials said in a statement first reported by TMZ. “Mr. Pena has been open about his struggles with mental health and substance abuse issues and the organization has on multiple prior occasions attempted to help him get professional treatment. “At this time, UFC believes Mr. Pena needs to deal with the health and legal issues in front of him, and consequently has informed Mr. Pena’s management that his promotional agreement has been terminated.”
Interesting to note that the charges against ex-UFC fighter Luis Pena were dismissed the following year July 2023.
So..... are we waiting for a statement from the UFC or are different fighters held to different standards based on how many millions of dollars of revenue they can bring ????
When you were forming Uncrown - was there any interest to bring/acquire the Morning Kombat show/people to be under the same umbrella? Or is it too similar to your content to bring over? Thanks!
I just saw the Mr. McMahon doc (I know very little of pro wrestling) and thought it was very interesting/entertaining. I noticed some similarities to the UFC's history. In the future - when they make a doc like this about the UFC - how do you think they will cover Dana White's era in the company (positive/negative)? Also to your best guess -what will be the biggest change when Dana leaves? Thanks!