Dana White: Promote Me or Get Out of My Way
by Michael Rome on Dec 31, 2009 11:02 PM EST
in MMA News
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This was a strange interview, only because Dana tried to physically intimidate Cofield throughout. Steve did a great job holding his ground given the circumstances. One wonders who the leader of this nefarious "internet" Dana talks about is, and what kind of diabolical scheme he's planning next.
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This is the exact reason he'll have problems getting UFC as the top sport in the Superverse
Ok, we know just about every other sport in the world employs underhanded means of promotion and treats certain members and factions of the press differently, the difference is they are subtle about it.
Dana White knows he has legions of follows in fans who will agree with him no matter what he says, which outweighs the outspoken members of the press who have been essentially offered and ultimatum of “sell my shows or you can’t come to my shows.”
Head Kick Legend
Twitter @HeadKickLegend
by Dave Walsh on Dec 31, 2009 9:35 PM EST reply actions 14 recs
I honestly wonder how different this would all feel if Dana could handle himself more professionally, i.e. stop foaming at the mouth and using fuck the way other people take a breath. It’s not the content of his opinion, it’s the illiterate sputum that starts pumping when he can’t express himself like a grown ass man in a position of responsibility should be able to. But of course, that’s fakeass bullshit, and Dana doesn’t fucking bullshit these fucking people the way these other fucks fucking do. We know you’re “real” Dana, it’s just that you’re kind of an asshole.
by Kwisatz Haderach on Jan 1, 2010 7:26 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
i didnt see any physical intimidation on dana’s part, except when he was crossing his arms after 8:30
The headline made it sound like Dana had the dude by throat. haha
I guess some web guys are mad at Dana becuase he called them out for not being reporters but glorified fanboys.
by snakecharmer1340 on Dec 31, 2009 10:35 PM EST up reply actions
false advertising? DANA STABS REPORTER... click for full story.
by snakecharmer1340 on Dec 31, 2009 11:10 PM EST up reply actions
Dana White needs to shut his mouth.
Telling PEOPLE what to write and what to be interested in… LOL, what a joke. The guy is off his rocker on this one.
Follow me on Twitter @lelandroling
"Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I’m not sure about the universe." - Albert Einstein
by Leland Roling on Dec 31, 2009 9:47 PM EST reply actions 1 recs
It wasn’t a dream, it’s wishful thinking that’ll never happen.
Follow me on Twitter @lelandroling
"Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I’m not sure about the universe." - Albert Einstein
by Leland Roling on Dec 31, 2009 9:55 PM EST up reply actions
It will only happen if Lorenzo or Frank tells him to STFU.
by Monday Morning Martial Artist on Jan 1, 2010 5:22 AM EST up reply actions
Steve Cofield: It is the media’s job to objectively cover the sport
Dana White: I don’t buy that!
Classic stuff. Sadly, I’m sure there will be plenty of Danamaniacs to parrot this new paradigm of thinking.
by smoogy2 on Dec 31, 2009 10:29 PM EST up reply actions 3 recs
Yeah there isn’t much ambiguity from Dana here :) Cover the events, promote the sport, or you’re my enemy. Dana is fine with criticism of fighters, judges, refs, even his own decisions, but if you come off downplaying the sport’s potential growth, legitimacy, or the UFC’s role as the major leagues of MMA, he’s going to think of you as the enemy, and act accordingly. It isn’t surprising, or even so terrible, that Dana feels this way. Anyone in a similar position often does, and wouldn’t see Jake Rossen’s perspective as objective. Dana, like most people successful at managing that scale of responsibility, takes everything personally. Others are just wiser, in my opinion, in the way they approach the media. Dana has a big mouth, If he approached blow-ups like this by asking for a face to face interview with Jake Rossen, or whoever the flavor of the month is, he could handle this head on and lay out his version of the facts, or he could let the “story” die without much comment. Instead he spouts off, which to my mind, really only encourages reporters to be antagonistic towards him and the UFC in general. Dana makes Jake Rossen’s article a story, rather than leaving it as one reporter’s opinion disappearing immediately into the MMA news cycle.
by Kwisatz Haderach on Jan 1, 2010 3:40 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Part of the problem with going 'on the record'
with various reporters/media personalities in order to set things straight, or clear the air, or whatever, is that you are simply handing them the upper hand in all negotiations/interactions from that point forward. If you allow Rossen, or whoever, to call you out and set the stage for the interaction, you’ve basically surrendered the entire argument.
What Dana’s doing is normal, as has been alluded to in your post and other places here. The difference between how he and, say, Bud Selig handle similar situations differs only in levels of obfuscation and removal. Dana doesn’t believe in obfuscation, and obviously enjoys being his own hatchet man. All things considered, he’s done a hell of a job thus far.
All of that said, it is true that at some point, the sport outgrows him (probably…Vince McMahon isn’t really all that far off, and look how long he’s been doing his thing…) and they’ll need a more obscure leader who delegates the axe-work.
There is no such thing as innocence, only degrees of guilt.
It’s another eye-rolling case of Dana ranting and raving about he doesn’t care what “insert offending party’s name here” thinks. Then why are you cussing a storm and blowing this all out of proportion? Someone, somewhere, disagrees with your perception about the sport’s growth potential! How do you sleep at night Dana? Dana must’ve watched the Godfather a billion times, yet still goes about things like Sonny, rather than the Don, or Michael. It doesn’t mean a lot to me either way, but it just seems like weird, misplaced insecurity. Stranger still to see him at the MMA awards, talking about how people focus too much on him, and don’t give Lorenzo enough credit for expanding the company internationally. Then again, I imagine a lot of good cop/bad cop goes on behind the scenes with Dana and Lorenzo respectively. It’s probably pretty effective.
by Kwisatz Haderach on Jan 1, 2010 7:20 PM EST up reply actions
Haha, thanks, I’m working on controlling my powers…
by Kwisatz Haderach on Jan 1, 2010 7:05 PM EST up reply actions
Do killing words work
in typed form? Wait…
There is no such thing as innocence, only degrees of guilt.
Well they weren’t in the book so probably not :) Alright, I admit I’ve already tried it, and failed. Either that or Brock just didn’t read the email I sent him…or did he?
by Kwisatz Haderach on Jan 1, 2010 9:01 PM EST up reply actions
Just did an experiment
While my friends were waiting for me to get ready so we can go out, I just showed them Cofields interview with Dana. Now none of these people are mma fans or know who Dana is, so basically they are the future fans he’ll have to win over to make UFC the biggest Sports League in the world (strange he didn’t bring that up as one of the things Rossen got wrong). And guess what? They laughed at him. Laughed. They thought he was pathetic.
I’m not trying to be anti-Dana or UFC or what, but that is not the response you want to get when you are trying to introduce your sport to people for perhaps the first time.
Anyways, everyone have a happy New Years and good riddance to the fucking aughts, a horrible decade.
by John Nash on Dec 31, 2009 11:08 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Ok but ask your friends if it would make them not watch mma in the future?
To me that is the biggest thing. Most people dont give a shit about Dana White. If you watch mma its because you like the fights.
Hell Bob Arum called mma fans racist skinheads and I bet you a good portion of those fans watched Bob Arum’s Top Rank Pacquiao vs. Cotto and even more will watch Bob Arum’s Top Rank Mayweather vs. Pacquiao if it happens because the reality is most fans dont care about the promoters they care about good fights.
If Roger Goodell comes out and tells the media to suck a dick it’s not gonna affect if I or most people watch the NFL because we watch it for the football and not the people running the show.
How often do you see Roger Goodell?
Dana has intentionally made his himself the face of the UFC, which comes with its pros and its cons. While many young men may love his antics, when you are introducing yourself – and he will be one doing the introducing because Zuffa cannot risk allowing anyone else be the spokesperson – to the masses I would recommend you make yourself palatable. If potential fans are turned off by his antics before they’ve even had a chance to view the product how is that a good thing?
Got to go, so I can’t finish my statement. Have a good New Years.
Goodell’s been rather visible with the increased fines, suspensions and now this concussions struggle. In 2010, he’ll be a LOT more visible because the players and owners are about to have a cap free year.
David Stern is the best commissioner/public face of any professional sports league. Someone dry, self-aware and behind the scenes like him would be an amazing leader for the UFC.
Instead we have a Fox News talking points style evolved chimp who tries to blab people’s private medical histories without any details (Lesnar, Cantwell etc.).
Ribbit.
I disagree. I think Dana’s out front style of promoter has helped to fuel the growth of the UFC. Compare him promoting UFC events to Reed Harris promoting WEC events. Dana adds that extra fuel to the fire that helps sell an event. Reed Harris and other promoters seem to add very little extra value in terms of selling tickets and selling events. Dana White helps sell tickets and PPVs.
Just BE.
He can tell them...
and if they are good reporters, they will completely ignore that directive.
"The moment you stop thinking you're the best, it's time for you to get out the game." -'King' Mo Lawal
u go dana
yes i loved this interview, everthing dana said is 100 percetn right!
by #1 piggy on Dec 31, 2009 9:59 PM EST reply actions 1 recs
Just admit that you want free UFC tickets, haha…
by dancingChicken on Jan 1, 2010 8:08 AM EST up reply actions
dana should also state all of the hardcore fans r always disagrreing with dana, why i dont now, but if u disagree with him get out of his way also ,so called hard core fans!
I agree with you, GTFO dana’s way everybody, or you gonna feel physically intimidated, and you don’t want that.
"You hit too hard, too hard, too hard..."
by spectaa on Dec 31, 2009 10:04 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs
It's kind of funny how personally he takes it
It’s somewhat understandable since it’s not only his job to build the sport, but presumably his life’s work. But you’d think as a promoter, he’d see critique as a natural function of the space and respond to it accordingly. It seems that in other arenas, PR folks and promoters are perfectly fine with delegitimizing a criticism or a critic without taking such a personal, oppositional stance.
My motto,
As I live and learn,
is:
Dig and Be Dug
In Return.
-Langston Hughes (no relation to Matt)
people seem to forget that he’s been hearing “you’ll never reach any of your goals” his entire career. and you know what? he’s proved everyone wrong for the last 10 years…. so then some hack journalists come by with sketchy facts about how he is wrong about the sport the he has practically saved….hmm, where are their 10 years of backed up work?? how are they authorities on the growth of the sport?
by cagefightonacid on Dec 31, 2009 11:08 PM EST up reply actions
Nobody asked to be considered an authority on anything, people are giving opinions, it’s weird he even cared.
"You hit too hard, too hard, too hard..."
rossen doesn’t have a leg to stand on in this ‘debate’… he’s going against a man who has backed up what he said for ten years with what? shotty info where you conveniently only talk about the one country in the UAE that helps your story
by cagefightonacid on Jan 1, 2010 12:13 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
So...
The only people who can offer an editorial on mma are the ones who work in the different promotions? Sounds like a bunch of one sided, positive-spin news stories to me. Actually, sounds like ufc.com to me.
by E_liminatorjr on Jan 1, 2010 10:08 AM EST up reply actions
Jesus man it boggles my mind how somebody can run an organization to such growth and high levels of production while also being this ignorant about the media and how our society functions in general. Anyone who’s not my mouthpiece is my hateful enemy? Grow the fuck up man. MMA will never get to where he wants it to be or says it will be.
If you’re not here to build it get out of my way??? Sometimes I just imagine there is some “ghost-President” actually running the UFC in the background and Dana is just the face now. I just can’t believe someone this ignorant could do a good job as well.
-- FightCritic
Sometimes I just imagine there is some "ghost-President" actually running the UFC in the background and Dana is just the face now.
Lorenzo?
He is the UFC face for Congress.....
God knows he wasn’t gonna let Dana within 100 miles of a Congressional hearing that had anything to do with the UFC.
"The moment you stop thinking you're the best, it's time for you to get out the game." -'King' Mo Lawal
Awesome job to Cofield for bringing up “afro guy” Ben Askren. Dana really needs to know who that guy is because, IMO, he will be a factor in MMA in the near future.
"I fight because I can’t sing, I can’t dance, and it beats working all day. Now ask me a question that doesn’t sound so fucking stupid." – Phil Baroni
people thought the same of ishii… I think the jury is still out on him, but it boggles my mind that they put him against yoshida. yoshida may be old but he always struck me as pretty well rounded
by cagefightonacid on Dec 31, 2009 10:53 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
Dana sees the media as a means to an end. A lot of people see this as abhorrent, but that’s his stance and he’s not shy about showing it. No media outlet should allow Dana or anyone else to tell them what to write or cover. The adversarial relationship isn’t such a bad thing though. I’d like to see the UFC treat credible media of all types in the same way. I do think Dana gets way too agitated with people he doesn’t seem to respect. He should just let it go.
Over-the-top is what Dana does. I’m not really shocked or appalled at any of this. I don’t think his aggressiveness with his detractors and, maybe, people who shouldn’t be classified as such really disqualifies him from being a capable leader.
by Cannon Jacques on Dec 31, 2009 10:12 PM EST reply actions
I think Dana’s problem is that he’s treating the media the way some people in other sports are starting too, but he still needs the help of the media to accomplish his goals, so it’s a little rough.
Dana would be happiest if they hired their own full time staff to do reporting (like mlb.com or something) and slowly started pushing everyone else out at the time. The problem with that is that he needs the help of some of the media sources to accomplish all of his goals, particularly espn, and the other media outlets that are affiliated with TV stations.
My only surprise in this is why he’s being so over the top publicly. i could understand the video blogs he’s posted, but to continue in such an adversarial stance in interviews solely about this subject seems a bit crazy to me.
Dana can't seem to dial it back.
He strikes me as a bit of a control freak. In a lot of ways that probably has helped him, but the things he can’t control – i.e. media/internet – seem to drive him crazy when these forces deviate from what he sees as the proper course of action. I too think he should ease up. But unlike some, I don’t see his inability to gracefully communicate with media folk as completely disqualifying him from leading the UFC. I don’t think he’s a puppet with Lorenzo pulling his strings. Certainly, I don’t always agree with Dana, but I see him as quite intelligent in many respects.
by Cannon Jacques on Dec 31, 2009 10:32 PM EST up reply actions
Dana is intelligent, powerful, and emotional.
It’s a dangerous combination.
"Someone is WRONG on the internet. What do you want me to do? LEAVE? Then they'll keep being wrong!"
-Randall Munroe
Do you send him emails asking him to grow out his hair so you can have a locket of it?
by Neil Manich on Dec 31, 2009 11:17 PM EST up reply actions
Did my post come off as loving to you?
Because it is actually a very deep criticism of his business tactics.
"Someone is WRONG on the internet. What do you want me to do? LEAVE? Then they'll keep being wrong!"
-Randall Munroe
For a business man it is bad. Its also basically the description of Penelope Cruz in Vicky Christina Barcelona. I didn’t mean to take away from your point, just wanted to make a gag. Sorry.
by Neil Manich on Dec 31, 2009 11:27 PM EST up reply actions
I missed it.
My bad. Miscommunication ftw?
"Someone is WRONG on the internet. What do you want me to do? LEAVE? Then they'll keep being wrong!"
-Randall Munroe
Two things
1. Physical intimidation? Really? He stayed the same distance from Cofield the entire interview and looked him in the eyes while they talked. That’s it. The way this was described I was expecting Dana to right in Cofield’s face and spitting, or something.
2. That said, if I remember correctly, Yahoo on Monday had Meltzer’s year in review, which, like Sherdog, had nothing to do with the card coming up this weekend. So it isn’t like Sherdog was the only ones not leading their page with UFC 108.
If that is Dana physically intemidating Cofield then when isnt Dana physically intemidating?
I mean seriously I saw no difference in that interview than I do when he speaks at the post fight press conference.
Dana White is a person that speaks his mind and doesnt care what people think and that turns a lot of people off.
Dana White makes alot of business decisions that piss off a lot of the hardcore fans. Like not co-promoting. He made a choice that he thought was best for his business but yet because the hardcore fans want to see Brock/Fedor and Penn/Aoki he is the bad guy.
Dana White makes alot of business decisions that piss off a lot of the hardcore fans. Like not co-promoting. He made a choice that he thought was best for his business but yet because the hardcore fans want to see Brock/Fedor and Penn/Aoki he is the bad guy.
He makes decisions that keep the UFC in a stagnant state. If he wants it to be as big as he thinks it can be, he’ll have to abandon his “I’m right and they’re wrong, so fuck them” attitude.
Walking the line between intelligence and ignorance since 1985
@deowade
"He makes decisions that keep the UFC in a stagnant state. "
stagnant? Really? You do realize what stagnant means? It means not advancing or developing.
Where you might be able to argue that the UFC is not advancing or developing as fast as it possibly could to say that the the UFC is in a stagnant state is incorrect.
Oh and the new international sold out events. New Tv deals in China. Getting MMA sactioned in new states.
UFC sounds stagnant.
by snakecharmer1340 on Dec 31, 2009 10:41 PM EST up reply actions
Has the product changed at all within the past 5 years? No. Will the Product change to what it needs to be truly globally accepted with Dana White at the helm? No.
Walking the line between intelligence and ignorance since 1985
@deowade
To name a few
Most importantly someone who’s not a foul mouthed tyrant as their spokesperson, a willingness to co-promote, better production quality, a TV deal on one of the big 3 TV Networks, etc.
Walking the line between intelligence and ignorance since 1985
@deowade
Oh boy. You must have a hard time enjoying anything.
1. Co-promotion: UFC has no reason to do it
2. TV production quality: UFC has really good production quality.
3. Network TV is looking to maybe go to cable in the next couple of years because of ad revenue drop. MMA on network tv might something that is irrelavent if they go to cable.
read this about network tv:
http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/hr/content_display/television/news/e3i55cc6046dcbcc64544336db3970a235d
by snakecharmer1340 on Dec 31, 2009 11:08 PM EST up reply actions
I thoroughly enjoy the UFC. It could just be far better.
1. Co-promotion: UFC has no reason to do it
Want to show that you’re really the #1 promotion? Co-promote and prove it.
2. TV production quality: UFC has really good production quality.
Seriously? Seriously? The UFC has been using the same high school level effects for it promos and Countdown shows for the past few years. Want to see how it should be done? Watch this. And let’s not forget that TUF has basically turned in a current day National Lampoon movie.
3. Network TV is looking to maybe go to cable in the next couple of years because of ad revenue drop. MMA on network tv might something that is irrelavent if they go to cable.
What’s the easiest way to get more viewers? Put it on free TV.
Walking the line between intelligence and ignorance since 1985
@deowade
Well considering the last time they copromoted Chuck got his shit handed to him, and they are pretty much the nondisputed elite, there isn’t much of a reason to copromote.
by Neil Manich on Dec 31, 2009 11:19 PM EST up reply actions
deo
I agree with you 90% of the time but copromotion is not what the sport needs… it doesn’t work the way it’s supposed to.
by cagefightonacid on Dec 31, 2009 11:24 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
co-promotion has worked so well for the UFC's competitors.
by snakecharmer1340 on Dec 31, 2009 11:27 PM EST up reply actions
yeah, overeem is defending his strikeforce title and we’re seeing aoki fight people he should
by cagefightonacid on Dec 31, 2009 11:38 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
Yeah Dream’s copromotion have been an unmitigated success.
by Neil Manich on Dec 31, 2009 11:39 PM EST up reply actions
It hasn't worked yet.
The Strikeforce/Dream Co-promoting just started. Is it going to work right of the bat? No. Once proper contracts are put in place it can work. Overeem’s contract was open ended, and that’s why he’s been having matches in every organization other than Strikeforce.
Walking the line between intelligence and ignorance since 1985
@deowade
I just don’t like the idea of multiple ‘leagues’ if you will…. dilutes talent and confuses rankings, which will never be worth it.
by cagefightonacid on Jan 1, 2010 12:02 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
And having a bunch separate organizations doesn’t confuse the rankings?
Walking the line between intelligence and ignorance since 1985
@deowade
I said I’m not a fan of multiple leagues. period.
by cagefightonacid on Jan 1, 2010 12:16 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
ah, but exclusive contracts are another one of Dana’s evil plots to ruin the world of mma.
How can you be for co-promotion but against non-exclusive contracts, they go hand in hand
Takes planning between the organizations.
Time to join the neighbors in celebration. Happy New Year BE.
Walking the line between intelligence and ignorance since 1985
@deowade
Expecting a business to work with a direct competitor to help them gain market share is not realistic in my opinion.
Just BE.
There lies the main problem.
When do you start to think about what’s better for the sport and not what’s better for the company?
Walking the line between intelligence and ignorance since 1985
@deowade
Socialism MMA. UFC should share the wealth with Strikeforce.
by snakecharmer1340 on Dec 31, 2009 11:26 PM EST up reply actions
If it helps the sport grow, it's win/win.
Walking the line between intelligence and ignorance since 1985
@deowade
Seriously?
Your current job (I assume you’re employed) decides that it’s best if they have two people to do what you’re doing, and also they should continue paying the same as they were before. It’s win/win because they get more done, and split the money they were paying you down the middle to share with the new guy.
Ugh.
There is no such thing as innocence, only degrees of guilt.
by misterjonez on Jan 1, 2010 8:01 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
when you’re the president of a company? Never.
Every example of copromotion that has happened in the sports world has made business sense for the big guy (Champions’ League, Super Bowl 1, etc)
If it doesn’t make business sense for Zuffa, don’t hold your breath waiting for it, because it’s not going to happen.
they don't need co-promotion to prove they're number 1.
the number 2 promotion needs it to make them have a punchers chance to make a claim/argument that they’re at par with them.
(and that’s not being a UFC nut hugger, that’s the truth.. even blatant UFC haters would tell you they’re number 1)
by Anton Tabuena on Dec 31, 2009 11:25 PM EST up reply actions
It was a good argument,
Zuffa vs. PRIDE, but there just isn’t that much talent out there any more. At least not concentrated in one promotion outside of Zuffa.
If you combined all of the talent outside Zuffa, you’d give them a good run. Ultimately, Zuffa does own all the champions (with Fedor being the only realistic shot at beating the top of the Zuffa heap), so again it’s kinda tilted in their favor.
Co-promotion would have made sense in the PRIDE era, if there’d been a half dozen other orgs that held enough lite fighters to give UFC or PRIDE the edge over the other. That day has passed, and what we have now (and for the forseeable future) is UFC as the top league, and the others battling for the #2 spot.
Co-promotion between the weaker orgs isn’t going to push them into contention. It’s just going to weaken themselves against each other.
There is no such thing as innocence, only degrees of guilt.
Dream intro...um so they use a lot video filters and your impressed?
oh boy. i’m bored with you. peace.
by snakecharmer1340 on Dec 31, 2009 11:25 PM EST up reply actions
Happy New Year from San Diego mma junkies.
by snakecharmer1340 on Dec 31, 2009 11:30 PM EST up reply actions
Where in SD?
"Someone is WRONG on the internet. What do you want me to do? LEAVE? Then they'll keep being wrong!"
-Randall Munroe
southern california, above mexico, below orange curtain
by cagefightonacid on Dec 31, 2009 11:55 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
Haha, I got that.
Mean downtown, PB, Hillcrest… where you at?
"Someone is WRONG on the internet. What do you want me to do? LEAVE? Then they'll keep being wrong!"
-Randall Munroe
oh haha, sorry i read ‘where is…’ i’m up in old towne orange, just moved here from downtown LA but i love every part of california (- newport beach)
by cagefightonacid on Jan 1, 2010 7:31 PM EST up reply actions
Are you serious with this post?
Prove you’re #1 by co-promoting? If you’re #1 then you don’t need to co-promote. You need to co-promote when you’re #1 and #1a. There is nothing to be gained nor proved by the UFC co-promoting with anyone. I’ll give you a perfect example.
Dream and Strikeforce co-promoting works quite well as Dream has talent and Strikeforce has US exposure. M1 co-promoting works with them as they basically have the big fish in Strikeforce’s small pond, and they were willing to give up a bit for the lure of a big bass in their pond.
What in the world does the UFC have to gain from co-promoting when they have already established themselves as the #1 US promotion for every single division. There is debate amongst the hardcores about Fedor v Lesnar, but there is basically none amongst most casuals. In fact, the casual MMA fan in the US rarely knows who Fedor is and would more easily recognize Mir than Fedor. Every single other division from Heavyweight down to Bantamweight, and they are probably going to add flyweight to that, is solidly owned lock stock and barrel by the UFC. M1 has two fighters to offer at an absolutely massive organizational cost. It’s just a terrible terrible business idea. It’d be like someone suggesting the NFL should co-promote with the Arena league because they have a few really awesome players and their offenses are really good at passing the ball.
You want to see terrible production values? Go watch some Strikeforce and see their version of Slim Goodbody showing people what a jab is then get back to me. Also, your example of “good” production values either shows a complete lack of understanding when it comes to effective promotional advertisement, or just failing to understand the differences in cultures and market demographics that usually appear between foreign and non-foreign companies. Take a look at the NFL, pretty much the biggest name in the game. They still use that quick cut the UFC uses, they still have deep voiced announcer guys. About the only thing you’re skipping is the nu-metal rawr garbage, which does get a littler tired and stale, but when you’re biggest legitimate complaint is soundtrack choice. Find a new horse to beat on, because that one is dead. When the UFC is half as large as the NFL maybe they can get some of those slow motion films going where they turn a football game into a war, but until then it only makes sense to stick with what works.
Yes, the easiest way to get more viewers is to put it on free TV, however it isn’t always the best way. For instance, a good amount of some of the best TV shows aren’t or weren’t on network television. Do you think the Sopranos, Dexter, Weeds would have faired better on CBS? Not so much.
I usually like your posts, but this one seriously is starting off 2010 with a big question mark.
Associate Writer - WindyCityGridiron.com
by Jacob Hayes on Jan 1, 2010 1:34 AM EST up reply actions 3 recs
I'm not so proud that I won't admit that my theories have flaws.
You probably made the best counter argument that I’ve read. Rec’d.
Walking the line between intelligence and ignorance since 1985
@deowade
Tell me that is a joke statement
Besides the fact that it has expanded into numerous countries and gotten back on tv and into many markets. January 1, 2005 the biggest buyrate the UFC had done up to that point is 260,000 and this year we had a PPV hit 1.7 million.
5 years ago the UFC wasnt even on tv, was only in the United States and was still baneed in many states and you seriously want to ask what has changed?
The UFC itself has not changed.
In it’s current packaging, it can only go so far. Let’s not forget that Dana did not want to do TUF in the beginning, because he thought it wouldn’t work.
Walking the line between intelligence and ignorance since 1985
@deowade
But the ideas you suggest arent guarenteed to work either
1) how many companies have done co-promotion. A lot even now. Dream, Strikeforce, WVR, etc.. yet it hasnt shot these companies straight to the top but yet the UFC needs to do it in order to be more successful?
2) Network TV Deal. It doesnt guarentee success either. The IFL had one. Elite XC had one. Is it good? Yes but taking the wrong deal is also bad?
3) Production Quality – I wont argue with you there. Where I think the UFC has good production quality I think any and all mma companies should always be looking to improve.
No they're not guaranteed, but they are forward thinking.
Walking the line between intelligence and ignorance since 1985
@deowade
from my perspective, Australia, we have only had media coverage in the last 2 months (and i would bet my last dollar he paid for the coverage too) so why did UFC110 sell-out so fast?
because of the balanced media reports we all get through…. wait for it… the internet. not from the hatch jobs i’ve read in print media like the Hearld, Telegraph and Sun.
Dana needs to realise that while he can’t control the internet media – they do help him worldwide.
"The sky is falling" crowd is who Dana is referring to.
Instead of analyzing the fight and fighter they tell you why the UFC is going to crash and burn soon.
by snakecharmer1340 on Dec 31, 2009 10:27 PM EST reply actions
I agree that Dana is so hilariously off the mark on the whole issue of the relationship with the media, but come on, physical intimidation? There’s been a lot of stuff in the comment section recently about how some BE writers are blindly anti-Dana etc etc and I don’t really buy it at all, but “physical intimidation” is bullshit.
Sherdog label is on a UFC 108 promo at comingsoon.net
How funny is that. Dana goes on a rant about Sherdog not promoting UFC 108 and sherdog is linked to a UFC promo on another website. haha.
by snakecharmer1340 on Dec 31, 2009 10:39 PM EST reply actions
cofield
sometimes comes off like he’s asking questions to get a rise out of people (can’t watch this video from my phone) which I don’t think is journalism… that being said I like him. though ariel hewani doesn’t get the cred’ he deserves, definitely the best interviewer in my eyes.
by cagefightonacid on Dec 31, 2009 10:49 PM EST via mobile reply actions
cofield admits as much… he’s said before that he’ll ask annoying questions about people’s personal lives in order to get them agitated because “it’s good radio.”
thats tmz reporting
and I would hate ‘reporters’ who did that too… scum of the earth kind of shit to me
by cagefightonacid on Dec 31, 2009 10:56 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
A troll is a troll is a troll.
What do you need a fancy suit for, Charlie, you ain't got no job to wear it to.
by clover_black on Dec 31, 2009 11:01 PM EST up reply actions
Mr Rome
Both of your current front page articles are clearly anti UFC. Instead of wasting your time bashing one promoter, maybe tell me everything that was great in Dream instead? I would find much more interesting and useful.
I guess we grew up in different areas, nothing Dana did was physical intimidation. But I do agree he is a mouth piece that needs a muzzle at times.
No outcry over Aoki and the arm? Or a promoter that would put Goodridge in a ring? I read several heated comments from the contributors on this site about Cantwell and his arm breaking antics, same with putting Coleman in the octagon.
Outcry over Japanese MMA? Do people even take it seriously enough for it to warrant outrage? I assume Jose Canseco vs Overeem is on tap for their next show… and Aoki will fight blindfolded against a sumo wrestler in a kabuki dress.
I take all my MMA seriously.
I only get frustrated when promoters wrap shit and sell it as gold.
Is he not good for MMA?
The dude has his flaws, but Can you honestly say that he’s bad for the sport? Seriously?
by Anton Tabuena on Dec 31, 2009 11:04 PM EST up reply actions
In the short term
he’s fantastic. But he will need to gradually phase himself out. His tendency for making business based on emotions gets very tiring, and will become restrictive over the next 5-10 years if he wants the sport to continue to grow.
"Someone is WRONG on the internet. What do you want me to do? LEAVE? Then they'll keep being wrong!"
-Randall Munroe
true..
he has MAJOR MAJOR flaws, but he still IS good for the sport.
by Anton Tabuena on Dec 31, 2009 11:26 PM EST up reply actions
but in my opinion,
I think Lorenzo should get a bigger role in things..It can’t be mostly Dana if they want the sport to be “the biggest on earth”
by Anton Tabuena on Dec 31, 2009 11:26 PM EST up reply actions
Exactly.
Things like banning RVCA are totally emotional decisions based solely on an apparent or imagined slight. Banning MMA Authentics was a dick move, but understandable in the world of competitive business. One of those was clearly Dana’s call, the other may have been Fertitta bros, and the implications are significant as the mainstream approaches the sport. It reeks of scandal and corruption, even if it’s all legal.
"Someone is WRONG on the internet. What do you want me to do? LEAVE? Then they'll keep being wrong!"
-Randall Munroe
Well considering one of the headlines today was Shinya Aoki Sets New Lows for Sportsmanship at Dynamite!! 2009 by Breaking Mizuto Hirota’s Arm and Then Taunting Him, and Leland basically said that Gegard and Goodridge was so lopsided they weren’t even going to make a prediction, and that Goodridge sound retire before he gets hurt, I don’t see your point.
My issue isnt with Leland.
I enjoy 99% of his articles.
Why does writing something that shows one side of things
Automatically make one a “hater” or a “nut-hugger”, pro or anti-UFC??
I have read several posts where some people were calling Rome a pro-ufc guy, and now he’s “clearly anti-ufc”?? What’s up with that? Can’t people write their opinion without being labeled?
by Anton Tabuena on Dec 31, 2009 11:03 PM EST up reply actions
you have to admit there is an abundant of ‘dana is wrong’ articles on this site this week
by cagefightonacid on Dec 31, 2009 11:04 PM EST up reply actions
He's talking about Rome and labeling him just cause he gave his opinion on the topic..
And same with the other writers, they didn’t agree with what happened, and voiced out their opinion.. Doesn’t mean they’re pro or anti ufc. It just means they disagree with something…Now, constantly staying to one side of things on any given situation, no matter how good or bad, then that’s when you label the person for taking sides
When they agree with Dana and praise them, they get labeled as pro UFC, they disagree, then get called anti-UFC? Can’t people write opinions now without that? There’s a HUGE difference between that and blatant nuthuggery.
by Anton Tabuena on Dec 31, 2009 11:13 PM EST up reply actions
you are completely correct
i am just getting a little worried about the site turning into sherdog, where in the journalists obviously chose sides (this was during the gross era)
by cagefightonacid on Dec 31, 2009 11:43 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
well the BE sky isn't falling yet. ;)
by Anton Tabuena on Dec 31, 2009 11:44 PM EST up reply actions
promise me!!!! just kidding haha
by cagefightonacid on Dec 31, 2009 11:48 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
it's going to sound ridiculous
but BE is sacred to me in the sense that the work done here truelly is objective… if this changed i’d have nowhere to go. i love this site and am proud to be apart of intelligent discussion (and at times hilariously witty) about mma
by cagefightonacid on Dec 31, 2009 11:47 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
Honestly Anton I think a lot had to do with the
whole he physically intimidated him throught the whole interview comment.
I watched it and found nothing physically intimidating, just typical Dana White. Dana is Dana either you love him or hate him but he doesnt really change how he talks to people.
Yes I get that,
And you can disagree with what he wrote, all I was saying that him being labeled as “anti-ufc” is wayyy off base.
by Anton Tabuena on Dec 31, 2009 11:14 PM EST up reply actions
I guess I am tired of the UFC being held to a different standard than all the other promoters. If the UFC or DW make a single small mis step its the end of the UFC as we know it. Or the PPV market for the UFC is dead.
To me it seems people go out of their way to drag the UFC and DW down. But with other promotions it is the exact opposite. I just want some consistency.
if you do remember,
Rome was actually the one defending all the claims that “the sky is falling”..
by Anton Tabuena on Dec 31, 2009 11:28 PM EST up reply actions
I realize this
and i truly enjoyed his piece on GSP. I didn’t say he was anti UFC. I said these 2 had anti UFC all over them. I just want positive MMA feedback, I am tired of all the negative stuff.
Well...
that’s not going to happen.
We’ll have positive pieces, and negative depending on each writer’s specific take on a situation.
Editor - BloodyElbow.com - SBNation's mixed martial arts headquarters.
MMA Editor - SBNation.com
by Brent Brookhouse on Jan 1, 2010 11:09 AM EST up reply actions
i feel the same way about the double standards
by cagefightonacid on Dec 31, 2009 11:51 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
Apparently...
the line is TWO posts in a row. Glad we have that cleared up.
"The moment you stop thinking you're the best, it's time for you to get out the game." -'King' Mo Lawal
I did a whole post on Aoki
outraged about the arm and it got 500 comments.
Follow me on Twitter @KidNate
My brain seems to be in total conflict on this. Simply because after seeing that my immediate response is Dana is completely in the wrong here. However I can’t get over the fact that quite a few writers do seem to be against the UFC by the way they write negative UFC stories every chance they get.
So while I think Dana is wrong on this issue I almost feel like part of it is justified. The only problem is just like usual when he has a problem with something he doesn’t deal with it in the most professional manner.
Just BE.
I was intimidated.
Keep firing Assholes!
Editor of www.downsyndromematuremidgetsheltlandponyporn.com/
Michael,
I think you are reading waayyy too much into this. I did not see Dana physically intimidate SC. These two get along well and had an interesting discusion that went back and forth. Dana is not moving towards him, he is not touching him, he is not poking him.
I really enjoy this: Two guys having a debate.
I agree. Without Cofield expressing that he felt physically intimidated or that he thought Dana was trying to intimidate him it isn’t a fair assessment of the situation.
Just BE.
well here is where everything stems from...
I’ll post the entire Dana interview in a few hours. It was about 7-8 mins. Pretty spirited argument
It was good. He bullied me a bit and wasn’t hearing me. We’ll get him on the radio with more time to continue
debate w/Dana White on MMA/sports media coverage. Pretty heated @ times. Dana’s a fighter at heart
by Anton Tabuena on Dec 31, 2009 11:43 PM EST up reply actions
I read that pretty clearly as
SC saying “Yeah, I got under his skin, just like I wanted. Got a quality interview. Tune in, y’all, it was guuuuuuud!”
Nothing more.
There is no such thing as innocence, only degrees of guilt.
I like how about fifty percent of the comments are accusations that BE has some weird anti-Zuffa bent even though Luke so eloquentyl explained that wasn’t the case earlier. And Rome has written pro-Zuffa articles as early as week. You can say Dana is overreacting in this case while still appreciating what he has done for the sport. It doesn’t have to be so absolute.
Why can't a fucking internet reporter ever make a good point when put on the spot???
Cofield mumbles on and on about what journalists do when he needs to just make some real sense and points: 1. MMA journalists do help to build the sport by devoting serious, comprehensive coverage to it, in the process helping to educate, cultivate, and recruit fans. 2. Sherdog has been bringing MMA fans together for over 10 years, and has given detailed coverage to every UFC event during that time 3. UFC 108 is a weak card, which is why there’s little coverage of it on a monday, and partly why you see more off-topic stories to try and draw traffic
there are many other points, but seriously, why do these writers turn into such pussies when they’re confronted?
by Trust Doesn't Rust on Dec 31, 2009 11:34 PM EST reply actions
"why do these writers turn into such pussies when they’re confronted?"
"The moment you stop thinking you're the best, it's time for you to get out the game." -'King' Mo Lawal
MMA writers that work directly for UFC broadcasters:
Joe Ferraro – Rogers Sportsnet
Ariel Helwani – Versus.com, MMAFighting.com
Mike Chiapetta – Spike.com, MMAFighting.com
Michael David Smith – MMAFighting.com
Steve Cofield – Yahoo! Sports, MMAFighting.com
Kevin Iole – Yahoo! Sports
Dave Meltzer – Yahoo! Sports
Dave Doyle – Yahoo! Sports
by smoogy2 on Jan 1, 2010 12:33 AM EST reply actions 1 recs
So what?
Painting all of those guys as UFC puppets just because of who signs their paychecks is straight out of the tinfoil hat playbook. Hell, while you are at it, don’t forget about the guys who work for network affiliates that broadcast the syndicated ‘UFC Wired’ show. I’m sure they are all in on the conspiracy as well.
Do you have any idea how many sports reporters work for companies that broadcast the sports they cover? Does that mean anyone that works for ESPN, NBC, CBS, or FOX should be considered an NFL puppet?
by Steve4192 on Jan 1, 2010 8:05 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
and while we're at it ...
Gee, let’s see, Bellator was on ESPN Deportes last year and Sherdog is affiliated with ESPN. Guess that means Sherdog “worked directly for Bellator broadcasters.” And, oh yeah, there is MMA on CBS. I guess that means CBSSports.com writers “work directly for” Stikeforce and Elite XC before them. But wait … now Bellator is on Fox Sports Net. So I guess Foxsports.com answers to Bellator. But the IFL used to be on fox sports net, so …. wow, I’m getting a headache.
Every MMA writer owes 90% of their paycheck to Dana White… does that make every MMA writer his puppet?
This is such garbage. Every writer of any kind “owes” part of their paycheck to someone who helped increase the viability of what they write about. War reporters in Iraq owe their paycheck to George Bush, etc. The only difference is that only the UFC is stupid enough to believe that because they made the investment initially, everyone else who does well off it owes them some kind of permanent tax.
If you’re talking about the actual legit journalists working on MMA, as opposed to, say, the Zach Arnold tinfoil hat crowd, you’re wrong. They made a living working other beats besides MMA before UFC got big and if their employers decide to stop covering MMA, they’ll be off to another beat and making the same money.
was meant as a direct reply to mmalogic, not Rome
I’ll figure out how to properly use the reply function one of these days …
Poor Dana. No one in the MMA Media makes decent money.
by Jonathan Snowden on Jan 2, 2010 11:30 PM EST up reply actions
drunk at nye party.. dont know why im on BE but i gotta say
everyone who says anything is automatically lebeled either a sean hannity or a keith olbermann, but in reality ppl like rome are more like a david brooks or gail collins
We're just a million little gods causin' rain storms, turning every good thing to rust.
by Anthony Pace on Jan 1, 2010 12:38 AM EST via mobile reply actions
This is getting pathetic
Dana tried to physically intimidate Cofield throughout
Seriously, Rome?
Go Leafs and Bruins!
by Brad Ackerson on Jan 1, 2010 1:02 AM EST reply actions 1 recs
I think there was a mass suicide in 2008.
Keep firing Assholes!
Editor of www.downsyndromematuremidgetsheltlandponyporn.com/
I wouldn't take a job there.
You’d do nothing but take blame for Dana day-in, day-out. You’d never actually be able to do anything but crisis management, none of which would be your own doing.
There is no such thing as innocence, only degrees of guilt.
Ins't that what PR people are paid to do?
That’s like complaining about being a surgeon because you might get blood on you. It kinda goes with the job.
"The moment you stop thinking you're the best, it's time for you to get out the game." -'King' Mo Lawal
No, it's like being a surgeon
and complaining because the axe murderer keeps waltzing into the OR with a chainsaw and opens up (sometimes necessary, but never well-controlled) new ‘incisions’ every fifteen minutes.
The PR department, if run directly by Dana, would be tolerable for low-level employees. But there’s simply no room for even middle management with his hands-on style, and let’s face it, he succeeds doing what he does. I’m just pointing out that it’s going to be impossible to get anyone qualified in there to do the job as long as he’s doing his thing. Not saying it’s a bad thing, just saying it doesn’t fit with a normal PR department’s model.
There is no such thing as innocence, only degrees of guilt.
I find it shocking
That people are surprised by this. This is how Dana works. This is how his business works. You do not try and make nice with people who you deem are anti-your business.
Of course Dana is going to go after people in MMA media that he thinks are against him.
It’s just Dana being Dana.
Then the lottery could send
Big Show, Batista and Rey Mysterio to the UFC, while Smackdown gets Rampage and RAW picks up both Frank Mir and Tito Ortiz.
I’d be for that.
There is no such thing as innocence, only degrees of guilt.
by misterjonez on Jan 1, 2010 8:18 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Now that I think about it,
not too sure how the 6-1-9 translates inside a cage…
There is no such thing as innocence, only degrees of guilt.
I'm going to refer to this as "The Myth of the Physical Intimidation Video".
Dana was just using a bit of hyperbole to garner some interest for his event and the physical intimidation accusation appears to me as using a bit of hyperbole to garner some interest in this.
I don’t think Cofield was the least bit intimidated by Dana White in that video. Physically or otherwise.
Just BE.
Dana needs to cool down.
It’s obvious these people are getting under Dana’s skin. He needs to keep his calm more and not tilt his hand so much, making it so obvious how to push his buttons.
Dana is a little full of himself and has a little too much of that Exceptionalism thing going on if he thinks that at the beginning of the week Sherdog should have been wall-to-wall UFC 108 coverage when it has the lowest star power of any card in recent memory, and Dynamite!! was coming up. The Dynamite!! card was awesome and I doubt UFC 108 this weekend will come anywhere close to the awesomeness displayed out there in Tokyo. Now since it’s been over they have done wall-to-wall coverage of it.
Jake had some bogus data when he talked about the whole UAE being in financial trouble when it is in fact Abu Dhabi that is propping up Dubai right now, but other than that his article was pretty on point. There’s no way MMA will become the number 1 sport in the world simply due to the violent nature of it. I’d say that it will most likely get to the level boxing was in its heyday eventually. Yes it will be huge, but it can’t match Football, Basketball, Baseball, Soccer and Hockey. When Dana acts petty like this he does the sport no favors. Dissing the online MMA media like this is biting the hand that feeds you. They are not here to solely promote whatever Dana White does without scrutiny. I’m one of those people that generally thinks Dana has been and still is great for the sport, for the most part. I like the fact that he can be so open with the public about his opinions on things, you don’t usually see that from someone in his position. I do think however that he would be wise to chill out on the online journalists though.
Dana’s “Follow or get the F out of the way” act may work as long as the UFC stays mainly in the US, but I don’t think the same line of acting will win UFC any fans in other markets. Personally, I think it’ll be a tough job to explain away the rampant f-bombing in Europe, for example… A guy who acts like this won’t be taken seriously. It’s far too easy to label him as “another crazy, obnoxious American” – not exactly the image UFC needs if they’re going to grow into other markets.
As for UFC’s production qualities… what they have now will do, but it’s been essentially the same for a looooong time now – a honest reconsideration of the look and a well-thought-out overhaul might actually help the product. Not that there’s any danger of it actually happening, though.
by Monday Morning Martial Artist on Jan 1, 2010 5:37 AM EST reply actions
He certainly wont be embraced like he has been in the US market. From what I’ve seen of his overseas promoting, he seems to be on his best behavior when abroad.
"Like a ballet of violence clothed in fine Brazilian silk." ~ MMASuPreMaCy
Exactly
Dana tailors his act to his audience.
When he appears in interviews on ESPN, they never have to bleep him out. When he gives an interview to foreign press, the Dana fucking White character is nowhere to found. He knows where his shtick plays well and where it does not.
The fact that he dials his schtick back on demand is basic business sense – but thinking that he can go f-bombing in public without it getting into the ears of his business partners, sponsorts etc is ridiculous. He won’t have to go off in an interview but if he keeps having these blowups in public, the word will get around.
by Monday Morning Martial Artist on Jan 1, 2010 10:13 AM EST up reply actions
I really don’t understand how people can still get so upset about the word fuck.
It’s 2010, acceptable methods of becoming a celebrity are releasing a sex tape or fucking someone who is semi-famous. The language found on TV is getting closer and closer to including the word fuck (and that’s if network TV even exists in a few years).
And as for Europe? A place that aires this commercial is going to be turned off by the word fuck?
Look at youtube or some random teenager’s myspace and look at the language used there, the word is used so much that it’s lost it’s meaning, I can’t believe people who are ok with watching people get punched in teh face until they are unconscious can get so riled up by four little letters.
If Dana was french and said what he said, he would need to explain himself on TV, the medias would condemn him, other countries would talk about it, seriously it would be nothing like the small internet uproar I’m witnessing right now.
But I’m sure dana knows it.
And as for Europe? A place that aires this commercial is going to be turned off by the word fuck?
I’m really not in love with this sentence, but whatever. I’m pretty sure your commercial would never air during the day BTW. Anyway this has nothing to do with what we’re talking about.
"You hit too hard, too hard, too hard..."
by spectaa on Jan 1, 2010 9:56 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Oh I forgot to say why.
It’s because of what he says about the medias, it would piss every other journalists and they would jump on the hate wagon. I’ve seen it plenty of times with our politics.
"You hit too hard, too hard, too hard..."
by spectaa on Jan 1, 2010 9:59 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
But Dana is not French.
He knows what plays well with his audience, and he knows not to use the same tactics outside that market. He nowhere near as gritty or profane when dealing with the foreign press.
Heck, he even tailors his message domestically depending on who he is talking to. If you only listended to his ESPN interviews or his appearance on Dr. Phil, you would have no idea he was a foul mouthed cretin. He only breaks out the ‘Dana fucking White’ character when he is on his home turf (dealing with the MMA media or on SpikeTV).
And when is Dana on TV during the day cursing?
Get over it people.
We live in a society where shows about teenagers having sex and shows about Hue Hefner’s girlfriends and shows starring people who are only famous because of who they fucked and who saw it are all over the place.
It’s a bit hypocritical to allow that and still be offended by the word. The people who are offended by it are getting fewer and fewer, catering to them doesn’t make sense, because they probably wouldn’t be able to handle someone getting punched in the face.
Dana cursing is not a story or an issue, stop whining about it.
Lol
Grrr, man this is frustrating.
I’m not talking about the word fuck or swearing I’m talking about the attitude (in your face, get out of my way/if you’re not with me you’re against me) and in this case how Dana defined the role of medias (not so neutral anymore). It’s not my opinion, it’s not me whining, from where I stand I find it more colorful than anything else. I wanted to give some insight on how medias would treat this here because I AM from Europe. This is more theoretical than anything because obviously dana isn’t French, and except if he is a moron among morons he would adapt to the public he is trying to please if he ever want to develop outside America. Dana is really likeable when he isn’t pissed, and I’m sure that a polished version would work very well in Europe.
"You hit too hard, too hard, too hard..."
And I’m talking about the word fuck. That’s what I was responding to, so that’s what I’m talking about.
I am getting really offended with your repeated use of the word “fuck”.
by John Nash on Jan 1, 2010 1:16 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
Hahahaha..
Dear lord.. This was so fucking funny. I was laughing out loud towards the end.
I was almost getting tired of DW but this was so funny.
Maybe the funniest thing is that every single time DW opens his mouth there like millions of messages all across the internet twisting every word, crying and arguing. Like any of it matters.. I take it as entertainment.
I'm stepping out on a limb here and saying
that Rome is having fun with all of us.
Nice way to get some more attention for this beleaguered card, sir. Well played.
There is no such thing as innocence, only degrees of guilt.
MMA blogs as journalists is like saying Howard Stern is a journalist. Same way Dana gets bashed for using hyperbole… "journalists": do the same thing except Dana is a promoter and it’s part of the job description.
Dana said write whatever you want, just base it on facts. Say UFC 108 sucks if you want – he’ll disagree but there’s over a dozen guys fighting this weekend and not even a blip on sherdog until new years fuckin day.
Compare that to how they covered strikefroce’s Cung Le vs Scott Smith… CUNG LE VS FUCKIN SCOTT SMITH for crying out loud.
I suppose Rashad Evans, Thiago Silva and the rest of the guys on the card aren’t worthy of at least the same amount of coverage as Scott Smith. The same guys who say: "It’s not about the orgs, it’s about the fighters" clearly are hypocrites.
There was a phenomenon a while back called "self hating jews" (Jews being anti-semetic because they didnt want to be jewish and for no other reason) and some believed Hitler suffered from this (it was only a rumor that he was part jewish which was dispelled).
The same phenomenon is occurring here… "journalists" cant stand and hate the fact that they owe most of their existence to Dana White.
by mmalogic on Jan 1, 2010 8:45 AM EST reply actions 5 recs
Use a wayback machine and look at the frontpage for the past 2 weeks versus the frontpage 2 weeks prior to strikeforce evolution.
It's a lackluster card
during a week when a lot of members of the mainstream media are on vacation. EVERY news organization has been leading with year-end and decade-end reviews. It’s not just UFC.
Also, this card is not UFC 100, and it’s not going to garner that level of coverage. It’s not even UFC 107 for that matter. From a promotion standpoint, to me, it seems to be a REALLY stupid weekend to put a PPV on. I haven’t been following MMA for that long, but it seems to me the UFC’s target demo is going to be doing other things on a Saturday after New Years than staying home and ordering a PPV.
I love listening to Dana. He’s entertaining and obviously good at what he does. But this tactic won’t work in today’s media market. To quote Joe Rogan, “You can’t stop the Internet.”
"The moment you stop thinking you're the best, it's time for you to get out the game." -'King' Mo Lawal
I love Dana White and his physical intimidation
for all intents and purposes, just consider all my posts as works of satire.
by Bandaka on Jan 1, 2010 9:32 AM EST reply actions 3 recs
Went to Sherdog...
The front page is full of 108 coverage. Don’t know when in the week the articles were posted though.
Intimidation Really?
The guy is obviously passionate about the sport and specfically his MMA business. Can he be more professional and even tempered? Definently. I don’t see him trying to intimidate rather than express his frustration with the reporting about the fighters and stories about the fighters for UFC 108.
Dana’s point is that it’s New Year’s Eve (Thursday) and no one is talking about the title implications for Evan/Silva, how Dos Santos will move up the ladder with a win against Yievl, or how Paul Daley could be the biggest UK up and coming star, etc. Frontpages are only showing everything else but the fights or fighters this weekend. Although the coverage for Chung Le/ Scott Smith card was overwhelming for a card of less significance.
I believe that the coverage is low on UFC 108 because of the big let down in changes in the card due to injuries. I also believe that some MMA sites are angered by Dana’s suggestions in interviews like these as they don’t want to be told what to do (understandable). Yet they need to do a honesty check before posting frontpage articles that consisently have been over the last week as negative against Zuffa.
There is no way to tell if any card is worth our money till the fights pan out. I have seen more cards that have star power that under perform and don’t impress me than the cards like these that make me aware of some of the new fighters (or low key fighters) working there way up the ladder that surprise the card with their exciting fights.
Maybe Zuffa has set such high expectations that some of us get upset when we are disappointed by things that are out of Zuffa’s hands (unjuries).
So Dana get’s nasty sometimes and demands things out of the press. Wouldn’t we all in his shoes. But let’s at least be fair to the fighters of this card that most certainly deserve the coverage they deserve. There is no doubting that they are fighting in the toughest league of the sport.
off topic but
I loved the game KI as a teen
Ricky Hatton came closer to beating Manny Pacquiao than Marquez did to beating Floyd.
-SC
by The Lethal Haze on Jan 1, 2010 11:21 AM EST up reply actions
Same here of course
Jago all the way!!! Come on Xbox, bring KI on to Xbox arcade :)
I guess I should post that somewhere where someone will actually listen.
by KillerInstinct on Jan 1, 2010 11:28 AM EST up reply actions
Jago?
I would have demolished you without hesitation. Glacius was my favorite; if you could beat me when I was Glacius I upped it to Combo, and you surely would have lost then.
Ricky Hatton came closer to beating Manny Pacquiao than Marquez did to beating Floyd.
-SC
by The Lethal Haze on Jan 1, 2010 2:56 PM EST up reply actions
The rest of the world is picking up on boxing. Boxing is the worlds most popular combat sport and it bothers him. I honestly don't think MMA will ever catch up, and I think Dana is worried about that too.
by Upstait on Jan 1, 2010 10:49 AM EST reply actions 1 recs
I think he only cares about the whole “MMA vs boxing” debate as far as it brings mores eyes to the UFC. He only cares about the UFCs bottom line, I’m sure he couldn’t give a fuck less about MMA as a sport and in particular how popular MMA is in the third world (where boxing very popular and is seen as a way out of the slums).
Ricky Hatton came closer to beating Manny Pacquiao than Marquez did to beating Floyd.
-SC
by The Lethal Haze on Jan 1, 2010 11:25 AM EST up reply actions
I'm betting he does care
because new markets = more revenue.
"The moment you stop thinking you're the best, it's time for you to get out the game." -'King' Mo Lawal
I’m sure there’s alot of money to be made selling PPVs in the third world.
Ricky Hatton came closer to beating Manny Pacquiao than Marquez did to beating Floyd.
-SC
by The Lethal Haze on Jan 1, 2010 2:57 PM EST up reply actions
As long as he makes one dollar more
than he invests, it’s worth it, right?
"The moment you stop thinking you're the best, it's time for you to get out the game." -'King' Mo Lawal
That would entirely depend on how much he invested.
If he invested (risked) two dollars, and got back his original two plus one more, he would have a profit margin of 50%. Most people would kill to have that kind of margin.
If he invested (again, risked) 2 million dollars, and received two million and one dollars for his efforts, he would have a profit margin of 0.00005%. If you could have gotten 0.5% of a return on your investment in treasury bonds (I’m not going to take the time to look up what the current yield on T-Bonds is, you can if you want), you would not only look but actually be retarded risking 2 million to get one dollar.
So the question isn’t can I make any profit on a risk I take. The question is can I make enough of a profit to make the risk I take worth it, and can I make more money or take less risk if I invest my money somewhere else.
Of course, my original point was that Dana could give a fuck less about boxing, its resurgence or decline. I added that he could give a fuck less about MMA as a whole- he’s not going to help a competitor because it will benefit worldwide MMA.
Similarly, where boxing is the strongest relative to MMA (the third world), Dana’s not going to set up camp there. There’s no money in it. He’ll go for MMA in China, not Kazakhstan. South Africa, not Ethiopia. Great Britain, not Slovakia. Hell he’d even go for Mexico- but not Nicaragua. The point isn’t to make anything you can, its to make boatloads more than you put out.
Ricky Hatton came closer to beating Manny Pacquiao than Marquez did to beating Floyd.
-SC
by The Lethal Haze on Jan 1, 2010 6:25 PM EST up reply actions
Hehe usually Im not a fan of Cofields, but he held is ground an spoke his mind like a true journalist would/should. Hahah Im not afraid of the internet, I beg to differ" Classic stuff from Dana as always. The roids are goin to his head I thinks..
How do you Know where Im at? If you dont Know where Ive been...Understand where Im coming from??
I swear to god, bro…there’s so much stuff I can do to these fucking idiots. Have some respect. Who are you? Do you even know me? 
by dancingChicken on Jan 1, 2010 12:00 PM EST reply actions 1 recs
Actually, I don't.
Who is that?
"The moment you stop thinking you're the best, it's time for you to get out the game." -'King' Mo Lawal
“One wonders who the leader of this nefarious “internet” Dana talks about is, and what kind of diabolical scheme he’s planning next."
I bet he has a really big penis.
On his chest maybe?
"The moment you stop thinking you're the best, it's time for you to get out the game." -'King' Mo Lawal
Well, can’t say I really saw too much physical intimidation, at least not deliberate. Dana White is a fairly big guy, and any time a bigger guy gets angry, i guess you can say that’s physically intimidating, but I don’t know how fair it is to say “Dana White tried to physically intimidate…”
On the other hand, this is fairly outrageous. If you have a perceived bad reputation with the media, I don’t think you go out there and start becoming even more heavy handed. It’s not exactly a winning media strategy in the long run.
Hah!
I love how “fuckin’ nuthugger” has become a term commonly used by the president of a multi-billion dollar brand when speaking to the media. The same media that he says needs to be a vehicle to promote the sport.
Note to Dana: if you want people to look at you and your product like they do David Stern and NBA, try taking a business-etiquette course. Perhaps Addressing the Press 101?
Stern and the NBA? Isn’t that a dying league? I know I no longer follow basketball at all. Maybe the NFL would have been a better example.
Dying League?
No, not quite. They have the most marketable superstars in the world, such as Kobe, Lebron, D-Wade. And they kinda-sorta are internationally known in more countries other than Japan and Brasil.
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