Zuffa's Media Policy Continues as Business as Usual
by Mike Fagan on Apr 8, 2011 4:21 PM EDT
in Strikeforce News
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When Zuffa purchased Strikeforce from Scott Coker and Silicon Valley Sports & Entertainment, Dana White insisted that things would remain "business as usual." Showtime would continue airing Strikeforce events and controlling broadcast production. Fighters would continue fighting under the Strikeforce banner -- at least until their contracts run out. Lorenzo Fertitta explained that the only change would be the immediate institution of the full Unified Rules.
The "business as usual" mantra doesn't apply to the media, however. Loretta Hunt tweeted earlier today:
The @ufc has denied me a credential to cover @strikeforce on Sat. for @CBSSports #MMA
I will still attend the weigh-ins today and the show as a spectator, but @CBSSports has dropped their planned coverage
No reason given for denial through @cbssports, other than form letter that said had a lot of applications, couldn't accommodate everyone
The big picture here is that the UFC is willing to deny credentials to a large media institution in order to perpetuate a beef with an individual reporter. The UFC still refuses Josh Gross, now with ESPN after a stint at Sports Illustrated, credentials for issues created during his tenure as the editor at Sherdog. ESPN, however, still has access via Franklin McNeil, MMA Live, and others.
Denying Hunt access, however, has caused CBS Sports to drop coverage of tomorrow night's Strikeforce event entirely. Something is wrong in a universe where an organization denies access to a member of the CBS Sports staff, but assists Bleacher Report in its quest to make a slide show mockery out of everything.
The issue extends past Zuffa's insatiable desire to perpetuate media feuds. The UFC denied Bloody Elbow editor emeritus Luke Thomas credentials for UFC 129 in Toronto. Thomas now runs the MMA section for the SB Nation parent site, a site which competes with ESPN and Yahoo! and other large-scale online sports media publications.
The message is clear: play by our rules or have fun on the outside looking in.
It's a curious policy, and one that prevents talented journalists from offering comprehensive coverage of the sport of MMA and Zuffa's MMA organizations. I don't believe the Zuffa is "wrong" for their media policy. They are within their rights to withhold access from any individual or organization that they see fit.
Zuffa wants coverage in which they can control the narrative to some degree, and they are willing to cut off legitimate sources in order to achieve that goal. It's an unwritten contract that regularly credentialed publications must live up to should they want to continue to receive direct access to UFC events.
Personally, I have no interest in receiving credentials should it also come with the need for self-censorship. I am not interested in writing press releases masquerading as news and op-ed pieces for the UFC. (I am, however, interested in writing straight press releases for the UFC should they pay me for it.) So, I am content sitting outside of the UFC's party, able to criticize or compliment as I see fit.
If the idea of media to you is provide the news in a timely fashion, this sort of policy won't have much of an effect on your enjoyment of the sport. It's those of us who that value critical thought, transparency, and honest discussion that suffer.
[Update 4:06 p.m. ET] - Sherdog, not surprisingly, has also been denied credentials to this weekend's Strikeforce event.
Also, Brent Brookhouse alerted me to a bit of humor that I missed. By denying Loretta Hunt credentials, and CBS Sports by extension, Zuffa has ostracized the network which owns the cable channel that will air the fights. Hilarity!
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I have seen this too many times here today
time for a new pic, everyone
Conducting an experiment on knocking people out in particular ways would be unethical.
AMEN BROTHA!
I want the honest truth not some butt kissing bull shit.
"Cry in the dojo. Laugh on the battlefield"
by lawdawgfightcrew on Apr 8, 2011 3:44 PM EDT via mobile reply actions
This is why Bloody Elbow is the only MMA site that matters
The other sites are too busy trying to stay in Zuffa’s good graces, so they’ll put a positive spin on bad ratings, or they’re chasing pageviews with ridonkulous slide shows that have more to do with Internet memes and mockery than the sport of MMA. This is still the only place I’ve found consistently sharp, smart, POV-writing from fellow fans about the sport I love.
10 Most Bizarre TUF Moments with Video? Really, Bleacher Report? And nothing on tonight’s MFC?
The tail is truly wagging the dog.
█♣█
A wise man told me don't argue with fools
Cause people from a distance can't tell who is who -- Jay-Z
by thetakeover on Apr 8, 2011 3:44 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs
It's probably more that the MFC show hardly appeals to their audience.
I doubt that the Bleacher Report audience is a hardcore MMA group.
BR is just awful.
And then God created Saturn ... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it.
SaberCats Examiner | SB Nation Bay Area | Niners Nation | Twitter
by James Brady on Apr 8, 2011 4:00 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I strongly recommend not reading BR.
Bolts from the Blue // "I eat cereal out of a giant novelty wine glass because it makes me feel fancy." - Britney Wade
Bloody Elbow // "Everybody underestimates the kick in the groin." - Bas Rutten
I write for Bleacher Report
Read and watch this and tell me you didn’t learn something, beoch
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/658166-grandmother-beckie-lobb-prepares-for-her-mma-debut
there's lots of good stuff on B/R
it’s just their overall approach buries the gold under a lot of dross.
Follow me on Twitter @KidNate
I don’t know about there MMA coverage but there MLB coverage was like something I would get from 12 year old kids. I signed up for there Yankee and MLB coverage buy email and every dam other email was about these fantasy trades the Yankees should make that just made no sence at all eather for the yankees and if they even did the other team would not ever do it. like 2 bad c level prospects to the Marlins for Josh Johnson unreal stuff like that . It reminded me of little kids talking about baseball and trades they would love to see there team make but not realistic trades. It was as bad as it gets for me and those emails stoped real soon after.
BR is fucking terrible.
Nothing good comes of it. I’m sorry for the writers there who are actually good, but if they lose out and never get read again to allow that site to die, it’s a loss we can all stomach.
And then God created Saturn ... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it.
SaberCats Examiner | SB Nation Bay Area | Niners Nation | Twitter
I don't deny the dross
management is aware of it, too. changes are coming. BE, in my opinion, is a great example of what B/R could aspire to: the coolest corner of a large sports blog organization.
Sorry. Going to BR is like diving into a barrel of feces to find a dime. There might be a dime in there but I’ll pass.
Oh and yeah beoch or something.
Exactly
Too much crap to wade through to find the few worthwhile pieces…
"Sometimes I wonder if the world is being run by smart people who are putting us on, or by imbeciles who really mean it." -Mark Twain
"Life is tough, but it's tougher if you're stupid." -John Wayne
by The American Ronin on Apr 9, 2011 9:32 AM EDT up reply actions
Zuffa is a privately-owned company, they can do what they want. If you don’t like it, don’t watch it!
by Joe_Leduc on Apr 8, 2011 3:46 PM EDT reply actions 3 recs
I've been guilty of the 'don't like, don't watch' comment at times
But it doesn’t really do any good to look at a open scenario situation like that. 1 bad/slow/boring fight, sure, change the channel, however It’s hard to have every facet of a huge organization and a sport fall into the 100% I like it catagory.
No one is claiming they’re going to stop buying Zuffa PPV’s ‘cause they can’t have their credentials, instead we’re just having a grown up discussion of how things will change due to their actions, and how they might improve it for future events and a look at cause and effect. This topic goes quite a bit deeper than ‘dont like it, dont watch it’
by SteveevaD on Apr 8, 2011 3:53 PM EDT up reply actions 10 recs
And we have a right to free speech
So we can criticize a company that is behaving boorishly and not in the best interests of the fans. And we can still watch it because you can still criticize something you love.
█♣█
A wise man told me don't argue with fools
Cause people from a distance can't tell who is who -- Jay-Z
by thetakeover on Apr 8, 2011 3:53 PM EDT up reply actions 11 recs
I would go a step further,
and say that they aren’t acting in the best interests of MMA is a whole. In short, the way Zuffa handles it’s media relations IS BAD FOR THE SPORT.
http://www.headkicklegend.com/
"I swear it upon Zeus an outstanding runner cannot be the equal of an average wrestler."
-Socrates
by ElliotMatheny on Apr 8, 2011 8:33 PM EDT up reply actions
the BAD FOR THE SPORT phrase
is almost meaningless now thanks to dudes just throwing it around EVERY DAY
real talk: this isn’t bad for the sport. it’s bad for a group of writers who can’t get credentials. it sucks. world turns
Well,
clearly my sarcasm missed the mark.
However, I do think that this issue in particular is part of a larger whole of why Dana & co. DO NOT actually want MMA to be the biggest sport in the world, as they claim.
http://www.headkicklegend.com/
"I swear it upon Zeus an outstanding runner cannot be the equal of an average wrestler."
-Socrates
by ElliotMatheny on Apr 8, 2011 8:53 PM EDT up reply actions
* re-attaches the sarcasm detector*
i think the UFC brass wants to grow the sport on their own terms.
I would amend that to
the UFC brass wants to growthe sport on their own termstheir bank accounts.
http://www.headkicklegend.com/
"I swear it upon Zeus an outstanding runner cannot be the equal of an average wrestler."
-Socrates
by ElliotMatheny on Apr 8, 2011 9:14 PM EDT up reply actions
the article notes that Zuffa is well within its rights to handle things the way they do. That doesn’t mean people can’t complain about it.
I consider myself a softcore fan.
by Thor77 on Apr 8, 2011 3:59 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
…I don’t see the point you’re trying to make.
Boys becoming men...Men becoming wolves
by spectaa on Apr 8, 2011 4:28 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
"If you don't like it don't watch it" makes sense
when you are sitting at home deciding whether to order a PPV or not. Doesn’t make so much sense when you are an MMA journalist and need to write an article.
Whenever someone says something like this, what they really mean is “not only do I approve of everything in UFC being based on personal loyalty, I am MORE LOYAL to UFC than you, and therefore you don’t deserve to watch it, commie”.
by smoogy2 on Apr 8, 2011 5:31 PM EDT up reply actions 8 recs
and smoogy you might be the only person I can say this to
but I am MORE LOYAL to UFC than you, and therefore you don’t deserve to watch it, commie.
; )
Follow me on Twitter @KidNate
by Nate Wilcox on Apr 8, 2011 5:42 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
True
Like TUF for example
"Although detractors decry it as a brutal, bloody form of human cockfighting, aficionados know it is a brutal, bloody, totally f***ing awesome form of human cockfighting"
this is clearly the appropriate step to take for the growth of MMA.
Alienating CBS over a vendetta against one reporter just before their Spike deal gets renegotiated is obviously a well thought out business decision.
"Someone is WRONG on the internet. What do you want me to do? LEAVE? Then they'll keep being wrong!"
-Randall Munroe
by pdl on Apr 8, 2011 3:53 PM EDT reply actions 8 recs
That smell ...
… is the Strikeforce/CBS bridge burning.
█♣█
A wise man told me don't argue with fools
Cause people from a distance can't tell who is who -- Jay-Z
http://www.headkicklegend.com/
"I swear it upon Zeus an outstanding runner cannot be the equal of an average wrestler."
-Socrates
by ElliotMatheny on Apr 8, 2011 8:54 PM EDT up reply actions
It would appear so.
http://www.headkicklegend.com/
"I swear it upon Zeus an outstanding runner cannot be the equal of an average wrestler."
-Socrates
by ElliotMatheny on Apr 8, 2011 8:55 PM EDT up reply actions
I was going to do a fanpost on this but I’m not going to have time so I’ll just throw out some observations. One is that business is definitely “as usual”, at least as far as how Zuffa normally does business. They’ve posted a Strikeforce Professional Journalism Policy under which they have already taken away media credentials from Hunt, Goldman, MMASavy, and I am sure others. Their goal? I am reminded of a recent Mark Cuban blog post described how he and his players can use their own websites, twitter, and facebook to bypass the internet media. Now, while he says it’s so he cut out the negative rumor-mongerers an obvious result is also complete control over how his team is presented in the media. And who does he compliment as doing the best job of moving ahead with this idea? The UFC “by a mile”. We’ve already seen how well they do with the current media (see Iolle on Cro Cop, Carmichael Dave on Fedor’s salary, or MMAJunkie on the current TUF ratings).
Of course, when the subject of the story is generating the items it is no longer news but marketing. I can’t wait for the day where UFC.com staff writer Derek Suboticki explains why Brock nudges Couture as the greatest HW in the history of the sport.
but the difference between Cuban and the UFC is
he’s got a well-thought out business strategy that lets print and TV reporters come to the locker room because he needs their audience. The UFC doesn’t mind losing ESPN and CBS’ audiences because they prefer to have more control of the media that chooses to cover the sport.
WWE is Dana’s blueprint except I expect the Fertittas will cash out rather than run it into the ground the way Vince has.
Follow me on Twitter @KidNate
I think they are eventually going to want to branch out
Contributor at cagepages.com Come check us out.
Head Kick Legend
I can't wait for that, either.
When a true genius appears in the world, you may know him by this sign, that the dunces are in a confederacy against him. - Jonathan Swift
Editor, HeadKickLegend.com
Contributor for CagesideSeats.com and Bloody Elbow Radio
Still Subo at Fightlinker.com
by Derek Suboticki on Apr 8, 2011 5:51 PM EDT up reply actions
To be fair...
I’d deny Luke credentials too.
Just sayin’.
by Newbs on Apr 8, 2011 4:08 PM EDT reply actions 4 recs
Humor me.
This ought to be rich, but please say why.
Follow me on Twitter: @MMANation.
by Luke Thomas on Apr 8, 2011 4:19 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Well that’s the main reason, obviously.
The other reason for why I would is because, despite assurances from the distinguished A. Morgan to the contrary, I’ve found far too many of your interaction with the commenters on this site to be pompous. And not the jackass commenters that had it coming either. Over the last few years I’ve kept BE as my main goto spot for MMA news because I do think it’s the best but found your attitude fairly distasteful. A lack of humor, light heartedness, and fun and instead doing your best to show us all how many big words you can use and that you are, in fact, a real journalist. Which is fine and dandy, but lighten up on the attitude and don’t take yourself quite so seriously. I’d find examples if it really mattered but I doubt it does.
That said, that’s just why I would deny you credentials. For the UFC to do so is stupid and I’ve long been against their media policy on this matter.
by Newbs on Apr 8, 2011 4:48 PM EDT up reply actions 7 recs
“I’d find examples if it really mattered but I doubt it does.”
It doesn’t.
I don’t apologize for anything I’ve ever said to anyone here. First, I don’t use words here I don’t use in normal every day convo. If they’re unfamiliar to you, well, then they’re unfamiliar to you.
Second, if you want to make fart jokes and dick around, please do so. I’ve never shat on anyone for doing that. It’s not my bag, but ok. What I get pissy with is how fucking insufferable people become. Up until February I was working two full time careers to try and get this site off the ground. I’m not asking for a medal, but that shit took a major, major toll on me. I didn’t and still don’t care for the dumbasses who come here and fart in your face with their hopelessly ignorant comment or criticism with (usually) no other point to fart in your face. I’m not suffering that gladly. Others might. I’m not.
Third, if I said this once, I’ll say it 1000x times: I take myself seriously as shit. Anyone who doesn’t take their profession and goals as an adult should jump in front of a bus and stop wasting everyone else’s time. If this is your hobby, have fun with it. This is my future and how I pay my mortgage. This is how I will define my career for the future. And getting to this point took a fuckload of sweat equity. It means taking the goals seriously, the learning seriously, the hard work seriously and the subject matter seriously. No one else is being asked to share my vision, but that’s how I treat achievement. I take it very, very, very seriously.
I’m sure I’ve unnecessarily been a prick to more people than deserved it. Then again, when pricks get their comeuppance they act shocked and surprised they a) people think they’re pricks and b) that people would be offended or pissed at their offensive or intolerable actions. The basic reality over time, though, is I’ve gotten better about ignoring idiots or clowns. I’ve also spent less time in the comments. That’s to my benefit and everyone else’s.
But yes, I am a serious person on a serious mission. It takes a serious attitude to make goals attainable. I’ll save the laughter and high fiving and other fraternity behavior for my off time. This isn’t my off time. You can’t be number one in anything having a jejune or light hearted attitude about your vision. Unless you win the lottery and I ain’t buying a ticket.
Follow me on Twitter: @MMANation.
by Luke Thomas on Apr 8, 2011 5:15 PM EDT up reply actions 17 recs
Rec'd for use of the word "jejune".
I’ve never heard it before and actually had to look it up.
"Ellismania is, along with the black President, a symbol of the future." - Mayhem Miller
Tweeter!
The Beard is Back!!
Have you ever noticed that anybody driving slower than you is an idiot, and anyone going faster than you is a maniac?
George Carlin
Luke's been in a bad mood ever since Cena lost 'Mania last week...
Kidding.
That was for all the wrestling fans you have
unnecessarily been a prick to
A true MMA fan from the great state of Arkansas.
Proud BElitest.
by MMArazorback on Apr 8, 2011 5:24 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
That could have been written by Dana White.
Of course I’m sure people would rather shat on it than rec it if it had been.
Just sayin’.
Mad respect, Luke. What you have done/are doing is fantastic.
this ^^^
This is my future and how I pay my mortgage. This is how I will define my career for the future. And getting to this point took a fuckload of sweat equity. It means taking the goals seriously, the learning seriously, the hard work seriously and the subject matter seriously. No one else is being asked to share my vision, but that’s how I treat achievement. I take it very, very, very seriously.
I’m sure I’ve unnecessarily been a prick to more people than deserved it. Then again, when pricks get their comeuppance they act shocked and surprised they a) people think they’re pricks and b) that people would be offended or pissed at their offensive or intolerable actions. The basic reality over time, though, is I’ve gotten better about ignoring idiots or clowns. I’ve also spent less time in the comments. That’s to my benefit and everyone else’s.
The UFC brass takes on the same mien as the staff of a few of my favorite websites. When it’s explaining that they make the rules on their sites, it’s the immutable nature of things. When the staff takes the commenters place in relation to the UFC, its OUTRAGE. It’s the way of the world, and when the UFC wants to make the changes that they say they do, i.e. make it mainstream, they will have to change or suffer the consequences. Crticizing them for doing it is fair, as is scrutinizing the criticism.
by John Danaher's Hair on Apr 8, 2011 5:38 PM EDT up reply actions 5 recs
genuine question.
does it surprise you that a lot of people think you are a prick?
that sounded a bit snarky upon reflection,
what I should say is, do you come across this type of thing often?
I was agreeing with the above poster saying that Luke’s response wouldn’t be impossible to fathom coming out of DW’s mouth.
by John Danaher's Hair on Apr 8, 2011 5:49 PM EDT up reply actions
John’s not a prick. He is one of the most level headed, knowledgeable posters on here. And be kind, he is a Met fan too. That’s a rough existence.
Let's just say that...
Being a Met fan in April is the highlight of my year. After that, not so much. And thanks for the backup…
by John Danaher's Hair on Apr 8, 2011 5:50 PM EDT up reply actions
Despite living so close to New Jersey
you’ve always been one of my favorite posters.
As a prick, I was offended to read that about you.
"Run and tweet THAT, homeboy."
Though I live 2 blocks from the Hudson from which I can see Jersey, I couldn’t be any farther. To wit: none of my guy friends use product in their hair.
by John Danaher's Hair on Apr 8, 2011 5:57 PM EDT up reply actions
Well,
I don’t see any product improving this “Situation”
http://www.headkicklegend.com/
"I swear it upon Zeus an outstanding runner cannot be the equal of an average wrestler."
-Socrates
by ElliotMatheny on Apr 8, 2011 9:00 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I only wish....
that Overeem-Werdum was tomorrow….
by John Danaher's Hair on Apr 8, 2011 5:51 PM EDT up reply actions
You mean the sound of the ring doctor and commission ushers feet on the mat as they run in the cage to revive Werdum? Me neither….
by John Danaher's Hair on Apr 8, 2011 5:59 PM EDT up reply actions
Werdum tapping on the emts, asking them to be more careful with what used to be his body?
"Sometimes I wonder if the world is being run by smart people who are putting us on, or by imbeciles who really mean it." -Mark Twain
"Life is tough, but it's tougher if you're stupid." -John Wayne
by The American Ronin on Apr 9, 2011 9:59 AM EDT up reply actions
Being that the posters here typically have no issue saying so to each other, and I’ve never had that said to me, then yes, I would be surprised if I found that to be the consensus. If I say something acerbically, then no, it wouldn’t surprise me to get that reaction. My question to you is, where do you get that from?
by John Danaher's Hair on Apr 8, 2011 5:46 PM EDT up reply actions
“The UFC brass takes on the same mien as the staff of a few of my favorite websites. When it’s explaining that they make the rules on their sites, it’s the immutable nature of things. When the staff takes the commenters place in relation to the UFC, its OUTRAGE. It’s the way of the world, and when the UFC wants to make the changes that they say they do, i.e. make it mainstream, they will have to change or suffer the consequences. Crticizing them for doing it is fair, as is scrutinizing the criticism.”
You can’t think you’re making a point here, can you?
Any place worth a shit has rules. And anyone who succeeds is toughened by getting to the top of things. That doesn’t make all the rules the same or as equally fair and doesn’t make all the people who try to achieve anything equally dickish.
Like, come the fuck on.
Follow me on Twitter: @MMANation.
by Luke Thomas on Apr 8, 2011 6:38 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
You're beginning to sound like this guy:
Was I condescending to you? I thought that this is a place where people can intelligently debate without instantly devolving into Sherdog forum members. You yourself have spoken many times about the effect that technology has in the coverage of the sport- writers no longer need to go to events to cover the sport. Shit- you went to Fedor vs. Silva and said that you would have gotten more out of it if you’d just stayed at home. I’m just saying that there seems to be a differing interpretation of rules when you’re the one making them as opposed to the one being affected by them. This is an incontrovertible fact. I made a metaphorical comparison- if you don’t agree, fair enough, but you should recognize that a disagreement is not always an insult.
by John Danaher's Hair on Apr 8, 2011 7:04 PM EDT up reply actions 5 recs
Tattoo it on your fore'ead...
Your revolution is over sir; The Bum’s Lost!
Have you ever noticed that anybody driving slower than you is an idiot, and anyone going faster than you is a maniac?
George Carlin
by Snatchl on Apr 8, 2011 10:06 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Condolences!
The Bums will ALWAYS LOSE!
by John Danaher's Hair on Apr 9, 2011 12:52 AM EDT up reply actions
I'm just gonna go find...
an ATM…
by John Danaher's Hair on Apr 9, 2011 1:28 AM EDT up reply actions
HE SAYS...
CASH MACHINE!
I think…
“I’ll suck your cock for a thousand dollars” is a oft-quoted line between The GF and myself.
by Sergio Hernandez on Apr 9, 2011 1:30 AM EDT up reply actions
nope...
it’s ATM machine. I’ve never been more sure of anything in my life.
p.s.He’s a goldbricker, Dude…
by John Danaher's Hair on Apr 9, 2011 1:32 AM EDT up reply actions
oh, you're right...
I’m really slipping. It’s still my bible.
by John Danaher's Hair on Apr 9, 2011 1:33 AM EDT up reply actions
HAHAHA!!!
I may be drunk but I know my Lebowski.
I worked at a retail store and our new hire “orientation” consisted of them watching a Loss Prevention video. So, suffice to say, we had a small TV/VCR combo in the back room.
Someone, nay, A GENIUS brought a VHS copy of Lebowski and left it there so we could just press play on our break and watch.
by Sergio Hernandez on Apr 9, 2011 1:36 AM EDT up reply actions
I lived in a house in college with 2 TVs in the living room...
One a biggish one with cable, the other just the same tv/vcr that you had. For a full year, Lebowski was always on the small one, playing in a loop, sometimes with no sound while we were watching the other one. I knew that movie, line for line for years, but haven’t watched it all through in probably 5 or 6 years now.
I made up the ultimate Lebowski drinking game, but it can only be played among super-hardcores. I think you’ll appreciate it:
You need at least 4 people. You all start with full drinks (Caucasians or Oat Sodas) and someone starts the movie with the remote.
The person with the remote then presses pause and the next person has to come up with the line. If they can’t get it, they drink and it goes to the next person. Whoever gets the line gets the remote and re-starts the movie, only to pause it when they want and it goes on.
*If no one can get it, and it ends up back with the original “remoter”, and they can’t get their own line- they must finish their drink and the remote goes to the next player.
*As you know, some lines are extremely verbose, therefore there shall be a consensus taken if someone came close. Obviously certain words must be said correctly, but if you’re playing this game in the 1st place, I trust your judgment.
This game has only been played successfully 3 times.
by John Danaher's Hair on Apr 9, 2011 1:55 AM EDT up reply actions
damn no edit button
The person with the remote then presses pause and the next person has to come up with the line. If they can’t get it, they drink and it goes to the next person. Whoever gets the line gets the remote and re-starts the movie, only to pause it when they want and it goes on.
the next person has to come up with the NEXT line
by John Danaher's Hair on Apr 9, 2011 1:57 AM EDT up reply actions
Holy shit, that's...
Amazing.
My bourbon-addled brain can’t keep up with the thoughts I’m having right now.
by Sergio Hernandez on Apr 9, 2011 2:03 AM EDT up reply actions
I appreciate the response.
I legitimately do.
I still stand by that you could be a bit nicer to people but that’s merely my personal feeling on the matter. It’s not worth focusing on on.
BE has turned into a great website (and has been one for some time). I’ve dinked around as MMA Media myself in the past and understand the amount of work it takes if you really want to get anywhere with it. In the end I decided I’d rather keep this sport as a hobby and fun instead of making it “work”, but that was my prerogative and I feel it was the right choice. You on the other hand are making this work and into a real career; not a small accomplishment by any means.
I’d disagree that you can’t have a more lighthearted attitude with work at times and still be serious about your career and get ahead. Particularly in a realm like this, interjecting a bit of fun and humor adds a levity that is often appreciated by the audience.
That said, it’s not your style as you explained and it’s worked to great success. I overlooked the personal strain of balancing two jobs and that it could very easily have led to the situations I was referring to with commenters in the past.
But whatever, there’s not much more to say as how you choose to conduct things is up to you. Again, it was good to hear it laid out.
As for the subject at hand of the UFC’s media policy, I’ve been subjected personally to a number of ridiculous hoop jumping to get credentials in the past. I blame their militant group of women they call a PR team. Never dealt with anything like that before and I hope to never again.
by Newbs on Apr 8, 2011 6:56 PM EDT up reply actions 4 recs
Wow Luke, way to jump to an extreme...
…to make Newb’s point seem invalid and stupid. There’s a reason Bill Simmons became so famous and revolutionary in sportswriting. Infusing pop culture, humor and a very approachable tone to writing while still maintaining insightful and intelligent articles is a very commendable and incredibly difficult goal to achieve.
I’ve personally no issue with your writing style, but it’s a fair criticism to make and you only limit yourself if you fail to see both sides of an argument – or at least entertain the notion that his criticism might be valid.
by Matty Euripides Castourkas on Apr 8, 2011 7:01 PM EDT up reply actions
Hmm, now I'm confused
I thought jejune mean dry and boring, time to hit up google definitions too lol
by Matty Euripides Castourkas on Apr 8, 2011 7:02 PM EDT up reply actions
Well damn,
that word has a ton of different meanings lol
by Matty Euripides Castourkas on Apr 8, 2011 7:10 PM EDT up reply actions
COME ON PEOPLE! CBS OWNS SHOWTIME! THEY DENIED CREDENTIALS TO CBS SPORTS! FOR A SHOW ON A NETWORK CBS OWNS!
It’s truly amazing!
Managing Editor - BloodyElbow.com - SBNation's mixed martial arts headquarters.
by Brent Brookhouse on Apr 8, 2011 4:09 PM EDT reply actions 12 recs
Cutting off your nose depsite your face Zuffa?
Follow me on Twitter www.twitter.com//ULTMMA
Local MMA news & prospect rankings @ http://www.ultmma.com
http://www.facebook.com/ULTMMA
“to spite” not “despite”
Twitter: @Mike_Fagan_13
by Mike Fagan on Apr 8, 2011 4:32 PM EDT up reply actions 11 recs
This.
A thousand times, this.
"Ellismania is, along with the black President, a symbol of the future." - Mayhem Miller
Tweeter!
I love jumping on the pile
Have you ever noticed that anybody driving slower than you is an idiot, and anyone going faster than you is a maniac?
George Carlin
These comments are ripe with common errors.
Bolts from the Blue // "I eat cereal out of a giant novelty wine glass because it makes me feel fancy." - Britney Wade
Bloody Elbow // "Everybody underestimates the kick in the groin." - Bas Rutten
Really
when typing I’m about 50/50 for using apostrophes less so when mobile
Conducting an experiment on knocking people out in particular ways would be unethical.
typos don't come close to botched phrases
Have you ever noticed that anybody driving slower than you is an idiot, and anyone going faster than you is a maniac?
George Carlin
I enjoy that not one person has commented on the intentional error I made.
Bolts from the Blue // "I eat cereal out of a giant novelty wine glass because it makes me feel fancy." - Britney Wade
Bloody Elbow // "Everybody underestimates the kick in the groin." - Bas Rutten
Maybe people are too concerned with your sometimes itchy ban hammer finger…seriously though, not a grammar nazi here, but this place is sometimes rife with them…
"Sometimes I wonder if the world is being run by smart people who are putting us on, or by imbeciles who really mean it." -Mark Twain
"Life is tough, but it's tougher if you're stupid." -John Wayne
by The American Ronin on Apr 10, 2011 12:09 PM EDT up reply actions
When dealing with metaphors, never take things for granite!
Hahaha, right guys? …guys?
"I want to tell me what you see, let's go ahead and see by in the fight, what you saw, in the ring." - Tito Ortiz
by CasualMMAFan on Apr 8, 2011 7:43 PM EDT up reply actions 4 recs
this is insane
That’s the first thing that popped into my head.
Dana talks about wanting to expand the sport and such but continues to behave like a schoolyard bully.
In the long run how detrimental will this be to MMA’s development into the mainstream?
"Progress lies not in enhancing what is, but in advancing toward what will be." - Kahlil Gibran
by merryprankster on Apr 8, 2011 4:16 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
massively and that's just fine with dana and the fertitta brothers
they want to keep it about where it is now in the US and grow internationally so they can continue to control it. look for them to try to cash out before technology kills the PPV market
Follow me on Twitter @KidNate
by Nate Wilcox on Apr 8, 2011 5:59 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
really?
You don’t see them exchanging PPV buys for network licensing fees? We’ll know a lot more once we see what the expiring Spike deal turns into.
by John Danaher's Hair on Apr 8, 2011 6:03 PM EDT up reply actions
I hope you are right
but I suspect that you’re not. But if I make a big shit storm about it maybe it will help steer them in the right direction.
Follow me on Twitter @KidNate
Pissing on CBS’ shoes doesn’t seem like the best approach if they ever hope to do a network deal…
"Sometimes I wonder if the world is being run by smart people who are putting us on, or by imbeciles who really mean it." -Mark Twain
"Life is tough, but it's tougher if you're stupid." -John Wayne
by The American Ronin on Apr 9, 2011 10:07 AM EDT up reply actions
I tend to agree
At some point in the near future (next couple of years perhaps), they will get while the getting is still very good.
"Sometimes I wonder if the world is being run by smart people who are putting us on, or by imbeciles who really mean it." -Mark Twain
"Life is tough, but it's tougher if you're stupid." -John Wayne
by The American Ronin on Apr 9, 2011 10:06 AM EDT up reply actions
Joe Rogan better watch out
Or he’ll be calling the fights on his podcast. NO ONE IS SAFE FROM ZUFFA’S WRATH, NOT EVEN ZUFFA ITSELF!
█♣█
A wise man told me don't argue with fools
Cause people from a distance can't tell who is who -- Jay-Z
by thetakeover on Apr 8, 2011 4:21 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Zuffa's war against youtube
Zuffa’s war against the press. Zuffa’s war against Barnett/Daley. Zuffa has a lot of wars.
Contributor at cagepages.com Come check us out.
Head Kick Legend
It's not really amazing
Zuffa is going honor the contract between SF and CBS/SHOWTIME and won’t sign an extension after this one ends. Dana has always complained about Showtime and their lack of production value. For heaven’s sake, they have GUS JOHNSON as a MMA commentator. :)
by JONBONESJONES79 on Apr 8, 2011 5:01 PM EDT up reply actions
Spike is owned by MTV iirc.
"Sometimes I wonder if the world is being run by smart people who are putting us on, or by imbeciles who really mean it." -Mark Twain
"Life is tough, but it's tougher if you're stupid." -John Wayne
by The American Ronin on Apr 9, 2011 10:10 AM EDT up reply actions
Which is owned by Comcast, also iirc
"Sometimes I wonder if the world is being run by smart people who are putting us on, or by imbeciles who really mean it." -Mark Twain
"Life is tough, but it's tougher if you're stupid." -John Wayne
by The American Ronin on Apr 9, 2011 10:11 AM EDT up reply actions
And Kevin Iole.
You know, for balance.
by CaptnAmerca on Apr 8, 2011 4:16 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
BE and Cagepotato are the last bastions for keeping it real in the MMA game.
If Snowden wanted to get press credentials he’d have no one left to argue with.
As much as I like Cagepotato....
…but Zuffa’s beef with them is kinda legit. They didn’t fall from grace because they did critical reporting or anything. They posted scans from the Arianny Playboy issue the morning it hit the newsstands. That was clear copyright infringement and I warned the geniuses in the comments hours before that this was a bad idea because they were opening themselves up for legal consequences. In the end, they should consider themselves lucky they didn’t get sued by playboy on top of that. If they haven’t been and just chose not to report THAT as well.
You could argue that them posting Playboy’s pics is none of Dana White’s business (and him calling the CP editor personally to insult him on the phone was ridiculous). And at least 50% of that would be correct. Still, this is not a case of the upstanding reporter getting banned for his unbiased writing.
To save me some time on 25% of all threads, here's the universal answer to the Fedor-debate: Fedor is the most accomplished MMA fighter ever. That is a fact. If he still is the best fighter at this point in time is up for debate.
by KGNLuc on Apr 8, 2011 5:23 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I could definetly argue that Zuffa doesn't own Playboy, because they don't.
Their beef isn’t legit, it doesn’t even have anything to do with them.
And (eventually) Subo.
"Although detractors decry it as a brutal, bloody form of human cockfighting, aficionados know it is a brutal, bloody, totally f***ing awesome form of human cockfighting"
No. It still requires skill and hard work. The big sites are big for a reason.
by Jonathan Snowden on Apr 8, 2011 5:36 PM EDT up reply actions
The thing is: you have to do this every day. Every day. It’s much harder than I anticipated.
by Jonathan Snowden on Apr 8, 2011 5:42 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
True fucking that. I used to work construction, and I get more tired from days of writing than I did days of building fucking houses. This shit is draining, especially when you’re actually working games/events and you’re running everywhere. Sometimes I just sit there and stare, no fucking clue what to write because my brain stopped working.
And then God created Saturn ... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it.
SaberCats Examiner | SB Nation Bay Area | Niners Nation | Twitter
Classy.
When a true genius appears in the world, you may know him by this sign, that the dunces are in a confederacy against him. - Jonathan Swift
Editor, HeadKickLegend.com
Contributor for CagesideSeats.com and Bloody Elbow Radio
Still Subo at Fightlinker.com
by Derek Suboticki on Apr 8, 2011 5:53 PM EDT up reply actions
prove him wrong Derek
hard work is the big missing ingredient. Thomas Edison etc
Follow me on Twitter @KidNate
Thomas Edison
didn’t work hard at shit other than stealing Tesla’s ideas.
Why I never joined a frat: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K-KNVrZaN8M
"Don’t quote old fucks to me" – Brent Brookhouse
"A samurai would bite your cock off if you tried that shit on the battlefield." - Kid Nate
by Chris Barton on Apr 8, 2011 6:07 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
As a Colorado Springs native, I thank you for this. Tesla got robbed.
Also, when I write to prove Jonathan Snowden wrong, it’s right there in the title that that’s what I’m doing. My output isn’t going to be determined by the expectations of anyone but me.
When a true genius appears in the world, you may know him by this sign, that the dunces are in a confederacy against him. - Jonathan Swift
Editor, HeadKickLegend.com
Contributor for CagesideSeats.com and Bloody Elbow Radio
Still Subo at Fightlinker.com
by Derek Suboticki on Apr 8, 2011 6:12 PM EDT up reply actions
That’s how I started. I’m happy to be where I am and I need to write more, but I’m not going to crank out something crappy just so I can rob people of that particular criticism. I probably moved 4,000 pounds of dog food yesterday for $7.50 an hour – I’m not difficult to motivate.
When a true genius appears in the world, you may know him by this sign, that the dunces are in a confederacy against him. - Jonathan Swift
Editor, HeadKickLegend.com
Contributor for CagesideSeats.com and Bloody Elbow Radio
Still Subo at Fightlinker.com
by Derek Suboticki on Apr 8, 2011 6:23 PM EDT up reply actions
And so you shall. Probably nothing new from Wittman, though :D
When a true genius appears in the world, you may know him by this sign, that the dunces are in a confederacy against him. - Jonathan Swift
Editor, HeadKickLegend.com
Contributor for CagesideSeats.com and Bloody Elbow Radio
Still Subo at Fightlinker.com
by Derek Suboticki on Apr 8, 2011 6:27 PM EDT up reply actions
?
I’d like to see more of your work
?
by John Nash on Apr 8, 2011 6:43 PM EDT up reply actions 11 recs
We don't sell that shit
It’s all premium and superpremium. Horse feed, custom bird mixes and bedding for rabbits, too.
When a true genius appears in the world, you may know him by this sign, that the dunces are in a confederacy against him. - Jonathan Swift
Editor, HeadKickLegend.com
Contributor for CagesideSeats.com and Bloody Elbow Radio
Still Subo at Fightlinker.com
by Derek Suboticki on Apr 8, 2011 6:52 PM EDT up reply actions
You're doing god's work, Derek.
Edith and Chandella need to be fed.
"Someone is WRONG on the internet. What do you want me to do? LEAVE? Then they'll keep being wrong!"
-Randall Munroe
by pdl on Apr 8, 2011 6:55 PM EDT up reply actions 9 recs
Holy fuck that was awesome.
http://www.headkicklegend.com/
"I swear it upon Zeus an outstanding runner cannot be the equal of an average wrestler."
-Socrates
by ElliotMatheny on Apr 8, 2011 8:44 PM EDT up reply actions
I’m printing off this comment and framing it.
"I see him beating Anderson Silva. I see him picking him apart. Him at a 131 years old...(trails off)." - Tito Ortiz on Vitor Belfort at Affliction:DOR
by Rundownloser on Apr 9, 2011 12:46 AM EDT up reply actions
serous question:
Do you know if they make a kind of “Ensure”- liquid meals for dogs? I have a really sick pooch and would have great need for such a product…
by John Danaher's Hair on Apr 8, 2011 7:08 PM EDT up reply actions
We don't carry it
But you want to look at good brands like Canidae, Taste of the Wild and Avoderm.
When a true genius appears in the world, you may know him by this sign, that the dunces are in a confederacy against him. - Jonathan Swift
Editor, HeadKickLegend.com
Contributor for CagesideSeats.com and Bloody Elbow Radio
Still Subo at Fightlinker.com
by Derek Suboticki on Apr 8, 2011 7:31 PM EDT up reply actions
Yeah
Because I’d rather do that than this for money.
When a true genius appears in the world, you may know him by this sign, that the dunces are in a confederacy against him. - Jonathan Swift
Editor, HeadKickLegend.com
Contributor for CagesideSeats.com and Bloody Elbow Radio
Still Subo at Fightlinker.com
by Derek Suboticki on Apr 8, 2011 6:53 PM EDT up reply actions
You didn’t have a job for like 12 years, Derek. You have no excuse for not writing more other than “I’m lazy and I don’t take this seriously.” The “I only want to write quality” is BS. Good writers churn out quality everyday. Just look around here.
Still a Beer Monster.
http://www.instrength.com
nothing improves
your skills like practice and repetition. doing hackwork is the road to artistry.
Follow me on Twitter @KidNate
4,000 pounds of dog food isn't that much dog food.
We’re talking like 80 of the big bags.
Bolts from the Blue // "I eat cereal out of a giant novelty wine glass because it makes me feel fancy." - Britney Wade
Bloody Elbow // "Everybody underestimates the kick in the groin." - Bas Rutten
by Richard Wade on Apr 8, 2011 7:18 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Thus validating Kid Nate's comment to Subo
hard work is the big missing ingredient. Thomas Edison etc
"Sometimes I wonder if the world is being run by smart people who are putting us on, or by imbeciles who really mean it." -Mark Twain
"Life is tough, but it's tougher if you're stupid." -John Wayne
by The American Ronin on Apr 9, 2011 10:15 AM EDT up reply actions
Right, because everything you produce makes me think of David Foster Wallace. It’s quantity that’s the problem for Derek Suboticki, yes sir.
by Jonathan Snowden on Apr 8, 2011 9:37 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
lowell
Right, because everything you produce makes me think of David Foster Wallace.
Didn’t he write Camptown Races?
Have you ever noticed that anybody driving slower than you is an idiot, and anyone going faster than you is a maniac?
George Carlin
Not to my knowledge...
he’s an acclaimed author who cranks out like 1 book every 10 years. Kinda like the Daniel Day Lewis of writing.
http://www.headkicklegend.com/
"I swear it upon Zeus an outstanding runner cannot be the equal of an average wrestler."
-Socrates
by ElliotMatheny on Apr 8, 2011 11:18 PM EDT up reply actions
Cranked. He committed suicide...
A couple of years back. His last work is being released next year and I suggest everyone go to wherever books are rented or sold and buy it or rent it.
by Sergio Hernandez on Apr 8, 2011 11:33 PM EDT up reply actions
His editor says...
It’s still a damn fine read and I will give him the benefit of the doubt.
But yeah, I share your :(.
by Sergio Hernandez on Apr 9, 2011 12:22 AM EDT up reply actions
Ahh bummer man.
didn’t know that.
http://www.headkicklegend.com/
"I swear it upon Zeus an outstanding runner cannot be the equal of an average wrestler."
-Socrates
by ElliotMatheny on Apr 9, 2011 6:44 AM EDT up reply actions
As a Colorado Springs native, I thank you for this. Tesla got robbed.
You’ll dig this. Really, everyone should watch it. Edison was a piece of shit and Tesla might be the greatest mind the world has ever known.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AwI1Xpwhyi8
Why I never joined a frat: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K-KNVrZaN8M
"Don’t quote old fucks to me" – Brent Brookhouse
"A samurai would bite your cock off if you tried that shit on the battlefield." - Kid Nate
by Chris Barton on Apr 8, 2011 6:25 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
That was awesome.
When a true genius appears in the world, you may know him by this sign, that the dunces are in a confederacy against him. - Jonathan Swift
Editor, HeadKickLegend.com
Contributor for CagesideSeats.com and Bloody Elbow Radio
Still Subo at Fightlinker.com
by Derek Suboticki on Apr 8, 2011 6:35 PM EDT up reply actions
Drunk History
is amazing. That one is the best, but really all of them are worth the time to watch. All honestly badass historians telling events in the most hilarious and down to earth manor possible.
Why I never joined a frat: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K-KNVrZaN8M
"Don’t quote old fucks to me" – Brent Brookhouse
"A samurai would bite your cock off if you tried that shit on the battlefield." - Kid Nate
THAT I can do
When a true genius appears in the world, you may know him by this sign, that the dunces are in a confederacy against him. - Jonathan Swift
Editor, HeadKickLegend.com
Contributor for CagesideSeats.com and Bloody Elbow Radio
Still Subo at Fightlinker.com
by Derek Suboticki on Apr 8, 2011 6:15 PM EDT up reply actions
and
his bodyguard to protect him from Diaz
"Progress lies not in enhancing what is, but in advancing toward what will be." - Kahlil Gibran
by merryprankster on Apr 8, 2011 4:16 PM EDT up reply actions
Until Diaz slaps him unconcious for asking the wrong questions
Tatum: I think he's a good man. I like him. I got nothing against him, but I'm definitely gonna make orphans of his children.
by Dave Strummer on Apr 8, 2011 4:52 PM EDT up reply actions
Doh.
Tatum: I think he's a good man. I like him. I got nothing against him, but I'm definitely gonna make orphans of his children.
by Dave Strummer on Apr 8, 2011 4:53 PM EDT up reply actions
I think a big reason for this issue
Is that MMA’s popularity somewhat coincided with the elimination of traditional media outlets, especially since MMA is still not covered in papers and a lot of well known sports news sources. Because of this the UFC has had to deal with a lot of upstart blogs requesting access, instead of mainstream sports outlets. Dana has tried to filter and funnel the media through friendly sources that he feels will deliver news to the fans but also not always try to tackle the huge issues, because as he’s trying to build the sport he has to contend with upstart journalists that have no legitimate credentials or name known in the sporting journalism world.
The issue with Loretta is that Dana thinks she sucks. I think the play here is him “asking” the question, what’s more important to cbs- retaining her as their journalist and not being granted access or firing her, and getting access. Same with Gross and espn. I think a lot of writers want the ability to shit on the banquet table that they also want the invitation to join, when the reality is that if you have no name and no pull, you should play the game until you’re ABLE to voice dissenting opinions.
U C O N N Huskies
2011 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament Champs!
by Austin Martin on Apr 8, 2011 4:15 PM EDT via mobile reply actions
The issue with Loretta is that Dana thinks she sucks
Not at all. It’s the opposite.
by Jonathan Snowden on Apr 8, 2011 4:17 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Isn't this thing with Loretta?
Over some report on managers not being issued backstage passes which turned out to be bullshit?
http://unintelligentdefense.blogspot.com
by MattParker117 on Apr 8, 2011 4:22 PM EDT up reply actions
She was hideously wrong when she reported that Zuffa, as opposed to the ACs, dictated how many people a fighter could have in their corner. Hideously wrong.
When a true genius appears in the world, you may know him by this sign, that the dunces are in a confederacy against him. - Jonathan Swift
Editor, HeadKickLegend.com
Contributor for CagesideSeats.com and Bloody Elbow Radio
Still Subo at Fightlinker.com
by Derek Suboticki on Apr 8, 2011 5:54 PM EDT up reply actions
That’s not what she reported. You’re hideously wrong.
http://www.sherdog.com/news/articles/1/Some-Managers-Agents-Lose-Backstage-Pass-16813
Zuffa, the company that owns and operates both promotions, has notified select fighter representatives that they will no longer receive credentials from the promotion to sit with their clients backstage on fight night.
The report was accurate and if you read the story, surprisingly balanced, giving pros and cons of the move.
by Jonathan Snowden on Apr 8, 2011 9:40 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
…you’re right. My mistake.
When a true genius appears in the world, you may know him by this sign, that the dunces are in a confederacy against him. - Jonathan Swift
Editor, HeadKickLegend.com
Contributor for CagesideSeats.com and Bloody Elbow Radio
Still Subo at Fightlinker.com
by Derek Suboticki on Apr 8, 2011 10:23 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
holy crap... mark the date people
I was one of the authors of the Port Huron Statement.
by Grappo on Apr 9, 2011 12:06 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I’m confused why you say writers should “play the game” until you’re "ABLE to voice dissenting opinions immediately after talking about Hunt and Gross, both of whom have a long line of experience in the media game.
Twitter: @Mike_Fagan_13
by Mike Fagan on Apr 8, 2011 4:18 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
i don't think either had much tact
Directly pissing off the one person it would behoove oneself to not piss off, and then bitching and moaning abt it instead of playing nice. Could be completely wrong though, because I only read SBNation sites for MMA
U C O N N Huskies
2011 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament Champs!
by Austin Martin on Apr 8, 2011 4:48 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
I think Hunt and Gross are bad examples
Since they never “played the game” which is why they are on the eternal outs. Coefield played the game until he thought he could speak up and then got kicked out and blasted anyway.
Why I never joined a frat: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K-KNVrZaN8M
"Don’t quote old fucks to me" – Brent Brookhouse
"A samurai would bite your cock off if you tried that shit on the battlefield." - Kid Nate
by Chris Barton on Apr 8, 2011 5:10 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Coefield played the game until he thought he could speak up and then got kicked out and blasted anyway.
A lesson not lost on the rest of the favored media children I’ll wager…
"Sometimes I wonder if the world is being run by smart people who are putting us on, or by imbeciles who really mean it." -Mark Twain
"Life is tough, but it's tougher if you're stupid." -John Wayne
by The American Ronin on Apr 9, 2011 10:21 AM EDT up reply actions
a lot of writers want the ability to shit on the banquet table that they also want the invitation to join, when the reality is that if you have no name and no pull, you should play the game until you’re ABLE to voice dissenting opinions.
What media members that sit at the Zuffa dinner table now dissent their opinion from the company line?
Curious what names you toss out there…
Follow me on Twitter www.twitter.com//ULTMMA
Local MMA news & prospect rankings @ http://www.ultmma.com
http://www.facebook.com/ULTMMA
This is a good question for Frank Shamrock
But I think he’s waiting tables right now…
"Run and tweet THAT, homeboy."
I don’t really have a list, though I feel that Helwani has dipped his toe in the water from time to time.
U C O N N Huskies
2011 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament Champs!
by Austin Martin on Apr 8, 2011 4:46 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
I said dipped his toe, not waded/ dove in. I think he has a lot of tact. For a well known author such as yourself, it may not be necessary, but for someone like Fagan it may be to get credentials. But then again, I’m a faceless poster on a random thread, so I really know diddly shit about it.
U C O N N Huskies
2011 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament Champs!
by Austin Martin on Apr 8, 2011 4:53 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Someone should tell Luke Thomas and Sbnation that it pays to touch dicks with Zuffa:
http://siteanalytics.compete.com/sherdog.com+mmafighting.com/
Someone should tell mmalogic that mmafighting.com is one of the sites that helped AOL lose millions.
by Jonathan Snowden on Apr 8, 2011 4:18 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Might want to look at this one:
http://siteanalytics.compete.com/sherdog.com+mmafighting.com+sbnation.com/
by Jonathan Snowden on Apr 8, 2011 4:19 PM EDT up reply actions
Comparing SBNation as a whole to Sherdog and MMA Fighting is a bit unfair.
"Ellismania is, along with the black President, a symbol of the future." - Mayhem Miller
Tweeter!
by alicks on Apr 8, 2011 4:22 PM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
Why? SBNation is where Luke writes about MMA.
by Jonathan Snowden on Apr 8, 2011 4:23 PM EDT up reply actions
I understand that, but Sherdog and MMA Fighting are dedicated MMA sites. SBNation is not. Look at the top search terms that lead to those sites – for SBNation, not one of those is MMA-related. If you’re saying that SBNation doesn’t need to play ball with the UFC and get credentials to remain successful, I can totally agree with that.
"Ellismania is, along with the black President, a symbol of the future." - Mayhem Miller
Tweeter!
Heh, that is unfair.
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 Apr 8, 2011 4:32 PM EDT up reply actions
Crazily unfair.
When a true genius appears in the world, you may know him by this sign, that the dunces are in a confederacy against him. - Jonathan Swift
Editor, HeadKickLegend.com
Contributor for CagesideSeats.com and Bloody Elbow Radio
Still Subo at Fightlinker.com
by Derek Suboticki on Apr 8, 2011 5:54 PM EDT up reply actions
Eh
In that we’re one section over there, but just wait.
A) that overall traffic helps with ranking of ALL content, no matter what part of the site it comes from
B) if you think we don’t have plans – big plans – for enhanced content, just wait.
I wonder if mmalogic knows all of the guys who built MMA Fighting and developed it, from programmers to VPs, left AOL and now work for SB Nation.
SB Nation is going to have the top properties in the sport of MMA and that’s going to happen without anyone’s say so.
We don’t need credentials or permission to take people’s readers.
Follow me on Twitter: @MMANation.
by Luke Thomas on Apr 8, 2011 4:26 PM EDT up reply actions 4 recs
Doesn’t Sporting News now run AOL Sports?
http://unintelligentdefense.blogspot.com
by MattParker117 on Apr 8, 2011 4:27 PM EDT up reply actions
Yeah, I don’t pretend to know the behind-the-scenes things going on in SBNation. I’m just saying that to compare two MMA-only sites to an all-encompassing sports site isn’t an apt comparison. I’m going to hazard a guess based purely on speculation and say a majority of readers don’t go to SBNation primarily for MMA updates, but for something else. I’m sure, as you said, that it helps – guys looking for NCAA brackets or whatever end up wandering over to SBNation’s MMA arm, but I’d like to see how MMA-specific numbers stack up against Sherdog or MMAFighting.
"Ellismania is, along with the black President, a symbol of the future." - Mayhem Miller
Tweeter!
Right now?
It’s nothing, but I can’t be clearer about this: if you think what I’m doing over there right now is how things will be in perpetuity, prepared to have your brains blown out.
Follow me on Twitter: @MMANation.
I’m enticed!
"Ellismania is, along with the black President, a symbol of the future." - Mayhem Miller
Tweeter!
you dont have a clue do you?
you’re comparing sbnations home site to mmafighting which is the mma arm of aol’s home site.
compare sbnation to yahoo sports or aol sports and you’ll have a better clue of what you’re talking about.
SBNation is the site Luke writes for. It’s exactly like writing for ESPN.com or Yahoo Sports.
by Jonathan Snowden on Apr 8, 2011 4:25 PM EDT up reply actions
gotta agree with alicks.
is it possible to do that analysis with just bloodyelbow.com?
by stiffUpperLip on Apr 8, 2011 4:26 PM EDT up reply actions
Here is BE + Mania + Cage side seats together. Maybe throw in HKL and combine them all to compare.
"Sometimes I wonder if the world is being run by smart people who are putting us on, or by imbeciles who really mean it." -Mark Twain
"Life is tough, but it's tougher if you're stupid." -John Wayne
by The American Ronin on Apr 9, 2011 10:32 AM EDT up reply actions
TRy this one
http://siteanalytics.compete.com/sherdog.com+mmafighting.com+bloodyelbow.com/
We also do better in Quantcast.
Mind you Google doesn’t respect sites that run in reverse chronological order as much as others. If MMA F or The Dog ran on this format, they’d be 1/5th the size.
Just wait, people.
Follow me on Twitter: @MMANation.
BEN FOWLKES
is money!
http://siteanalytics.compete.com/cagepotato.com+mmafighting.com/
he left CP around march/april 2010 when CP had 160k unique visitors. today, they are down to 60k
he joined MF immediately after leaving CP…. unique visitors increased by 300k from march to april!
Unrelated to the conversation
But AOL made AOL lose millions. They refused to adapt and keep up with their own product.
by silent.bisonte33 on Apr 8, 2011 5:04 PM EDT up reply actions
I don’t wanna touch dicks
Luke Thomas sticks to his word.
The UFC doesn’t want writers to be as objective as they can be in their observations and anlysis of events. All in the interest of making their business look good. It sucks.
by IRodC on Apr 8, 2011 4:22 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs
what’s the difference between gearing your content (stroies, titles, etc…) to get clicks and traffic and gearing your content to get credentialed so you can get… clicks and traffic.
the answer is one gets more clicks and traffic than the other.
Really? Then why are we zooming by all our competitors that play the game that way?
by Jonathan Snowden on Apr 8, 2011 4:28 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Unique perspectives?
The most objective analysis?
"Run and tweet THAT, homeboy."
by TheFilt on Apr 8, 2011 4:34 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Because you repost all their articles anyway. No need to go to them.
I don’t mean that disrespectfully but it is the truth. I’ve pretty much quit going to MMAJunkie, MMAWeekly, and Sherdog because their best content gets posted here. Why go to their sites when their premium content all gets filtered and delivered on Bloody Elbow?
And I get the benefit of the unique Bloody Elbow content.
by CB_MMA on Apr 8, 2011 4:42 PM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
That's the reason I'm on BE all day.
"Ellismania is, along with the black President, a symbol of the future." - Mayhem Miller
Tweeter!
yeah aggregation is part of our arsenal
take your shots logic. our growth curve is unmatched in this topic area.
Follow me on Twitter @KidNate
Just wait. I think you’re going to be surprised when we crush everyone else in the digital space.
Follow me on Twitter: @MMANation.
That’s great… innovation is good for everybody. They were smart enough to steal you way so Im sure they are getting the right talent in every division.
But dont be surprised when the day comes your partner is telling you that you need to start touching dicks.
But dont be surprised when the day comes your partner is telling you that you need to start touching dicks.
Yesterday?
"Ellismania is, along with the black President, a symbol of the future." - Mayhem Miller
Tweeter!
Definitely could have been phrased better
Logic is basically the Tobias Funke of shills.
Contributor at cagepages.com Come check us out.
Head Kick Legend
by Neil Manich on Apr 8, 2011 4:40 PM EDT up reply actions 4 recs
“But dont be surprised when the day comes your partner is telling you that you need to start touching dicks.”
Ok. I admit. That was funny.
Follow me on Twitter: @MMANation.
logic
you’ve debated online business strategy with us before.
you were wrong then. you’re wrong now.
critical commentary is our brand.
Follow me on Twitter @KidNate
by Nate Wilcox on Apr 8, 2011 6:09 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Luke Thomas: “We at SB Nation are going to be the Kawajiri of digital journalism (circa 2004).”
WAR CRUSHER!!!
InStrength dot com.
by Ben Thapa on Apr 8, 2011 4:41 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Your “destroy all competitors” view taken in these comments sounds a lot like Dana’s philosophy for his business, which is being decried here. Zuffa’s media policy is clearly petty and boorish, but it’s unfortunately pretty common across business models. I saw the same behavior from Kid Nate with his ridiculous twitter war with ME and some of the staff members here browbeating posters as I see with Dana’s treatment of reporters who fall out of favor. I love this site, but the staff here has no ground on which to talk morality vs. Zuffa.
by John Danaher's Hair on Apr 8, 2011 4:49 PM EDT up reply actions 10 recs
Ugh.
Follow me on Twitter: @MMANation.
by Luke Thomas on Apr 8, 2011 6:34 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
lol
this is some rich shit. I’m a confrontational asshole but I’m not toying with people’s careers.
Follow me on Twitter @KidNate
by Nate Wilcox on Apr 8, 2011 6:10 PM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
I've asked the question below and its yet to be answered:
How is not being at a UFC event stopping anyone from covering the sport? In today’s era of Twitter, live blogging and HD t.v., Gross and Hunt are still among the most respected and widely read writers in the sport. They still get their interviews with important players and manage to offer commentary on the sport. I don’t see how their ability to earn was effected. Would they be rolling in cash if they were in the building?
by John Danaher's Hair on Apr 8, 2011 6:16 PM EDT up reply actions
for us
it’s not even a speed bump. I have found that the time and travel and lack of wifi access at events cripples what i can do. Also I want the fan experience not the insider’s experience.
But for Hunt, Gross etc it’s a huge blow since they need the access to get the stories. we do commentary and analysis with news as a sideline they do news.
Follow me on Twitter @KidNate
by Nate Wilcox on Apr 8, 2011 6:23 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
and Dana is either
not concerned about CBS coverage or he is bullying them into firing Hunt.
But the careers Dana toys with belong to the fighters not the writers.
The fighters are the ones I care about. They are the ones engaged in an ancient and sacred calling for which they sacrifice their health. I’m always going to come down on their side over management.
Follow me on Twitter @KidNate
by Nate Wilcox on Apr 8, 2011 6:24 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
As well you should, but is this really a Zuffa v the fighters story? Or is it Zuffa v non-fighters that they feel make them look bad?
When a true genius appears in the world, you may know him by this sign, that the dunces are in a confederacy against him. - Jonathan Swift
Editor, HeadKickLegend.com
Contributor for CagesideSeats.com and Bloody Elbow Radio
Still Subo at Fightlinker.com
by Derek Suboticki on Apr 8, 2011 6:25 PM EDT up reply actions
critical reporters
like Hunt and Gross have been an essential outlet for fighters who needed to get their story out. Putin could be writing the UFC media policy.
Follow me on Twitter @KidNate
by Nate Wilcox on Apr 8, 2011 6:27 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Well, it’s not like the UFC is banning fighters from talking to journalists. I just don’t see the alternative. Peter King’s fellatio of Roger Goodell is more disgusting than anything I’ve ever read from Iole. Politics, business, sports – pucker up for access. That’s why I’ve always preferred BE to be UNcredentialed.
When a true genius appears in the world, you may know him by this sign, that the dunces are in a confederacy against him. - Jonathan Swift
Editor, HeadKickLegend.com
Contributor for CagesideSeats.com and Bloody Elbow Radio
Still Subo at Fightlinker.com
by Derek Suboticki on Apr 8, 2011 6:28 PM EDT up reply actions
Yet they still work, and have both moved on to bigger outlets in recent years.
I, of course, see the potential for such writers livelihoods to be affected, but I’ve not seen actual evidence of this.
by John Danaher's Hair on Apr 8, 2011 7:12 PM EDT up reply actions
That's a good...
Point.
Gross went from Sherdog to SI to ESPN. How exactly is not being credentialed hurting his career?
by Sergio Hernandez on Apr 8, 2011 8:53 PM EDT up reply actions
critical reporters
like Hunt and Gross have been an essential outlet for fighters who needed to get their story out. Putin could be writing the UFC media policy.
Follow me on Twitter @KidNate
or he is bullying them into firing Hunt.
I absolutely think that is what he is trying to do with Hunt and Gross.
Why I never joined a frat: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K-KNVrZaN8M
"Don’t quote old fucks to me" – Brent Brookhouse
"A samurai would bite your cock off if you tried that shit on the battlefield." - Kid Nate
I agree that is his intention, but
he has been blinded by his own “biggest sport in the world” spiel if he thinks CBS or ESPN will cave to his petty games.
"Sometimes I wonder if the world is being run by smart people who are putting us on, or by imbeciles who really mean it." -Mark Twain
"Life is tough, but it's tougher if you're stupid." -John Wayne
by The American Ronin on Apr 9, 2011 11:49 AM EDT up reply actions
“How is not being at a UFC event stopping anyone from covering the sport?”
You can cover it, but it’s a fuckload harder. Here’s why:
1. No press releases, not just for bullshit news, but call in numbers for conf call with fighters, where a TON of news is generated.
2. No assistance in setting up interviews. Sherdog makes it look easy. It’s actually really, really hard to do without their help.
3. Brand image – by never being at the shows, it’s hard for fans, particularly within the MMA community, to understand what or even who we are.
4. Getting other opportunities. Let’s say you want to do a TV show. That network or channel has to get footage rights before you can do that, at least if you want real advertisers or to be taken seriously. If the UFC denies footage rights, then you have no show (and what HDNet did only flies on HDNet because they were willing to subsidize it). It’s why anyone with a TV show is the most lap dog of all the media. They lose footage rights and they’re done. Trust me.
5. Sponsors. Again, it’s harder to get them not being able to network and also when there’s no real face or identity or connection to the community. If you think people in MMA know how much traffic each site does and how strong their reach is, you’re dreaming. Face to face means so much more than you realize.
I could go on and on and on. It won’t affect us because we’ve got solutions to all of these problems. But is it harder to do business? Yes, otherwise, why do you think they’re would be so many dick suckers in the media? Because they enjoy sucking dick? They’re just tolerant of dick sucking, some more than others.
We aren’t.
Follow me on Twitter: @MMANation.
by Luke Thomas on Apr 8, 2011 6:28 PM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
why do you think they’re would be so many dick suckers in the media? Because they enjoy sucking dick?
Well I mean…. some of them must.
Why I never joined a frat: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K-KNVrZaN8M
"Don’t quote old fucks to me" – Brent Brookhouse
"A samurai would bite your cock off if you tried that shit on the battlefield." - Kid Nate
As to #1
I used to work at that center. If you have the phone number (ie, a guy in the know hooks you up), you only need to know the company name and the name of the call – no code required. Yes, they have a list of media banned from asking questions, but it’s not gigantic (you all weren’t on it as of late 2008) and you can still listen in to the call.
When a true genius appears in the world, you may know him by this sign, that the dunces are in a confederacy against him. - Jonathan Swift
Editor, HeadKickLegend.com
Contributor for CagesideSeats.com and Bloody Elbow Radio
Still Subo at Fightlinker.com
by Derek Suboticki on Apr 8, 2011 6:30 PM EDT up reply actions
There are ways around everything
We’re going to be just fine.
But this stuff accumulates into a lot of extra work over time. There’s no denying it.
Follow me on Twitter: @MMANation.
We’ve had this discussion before. Honestly: would you rather be credentialed?
When a true genius appears in the world, you may know him by this sign, that the dunces are in a confederacy against him. - Jonathan Swift
Editor, HeadKickLegend.com
Contributor for CagesideSeats.com and Bloody Elbow Radio
Still Subo at Fightlinker.com
by Derek Suboticki on Apr 8, 2011 6:37 PM EDT up reply actions
If they could still operate and write as they currently do, of course
But that is not an option.
"Sometimes I wonder if the world is being run by smart people who are putting us on, or by imbeciles who really mean it." -Mark Twain
"Life is tough, but it's tougher if you're stupid." -John Wayne
by The American Ronin on Apr 9, 2011 11:52 AM EDT up reply actions
Thanks for answering me in a respectful manner. I know that you guys have tough jobs, having your work available to be shit on by trolls and trouble makers. But, Luke, please understand, that not all disagreements mean disrespect. And to me, making something harder does not mean that it’s fucking with people’s livelihoods. I don’t agree with the policy, but I accept their right to implement it.
by John Danaher's Hair on Apr 8, 2011 7:43 PM EDT up reply actions
Sherdog had writers at Challengers in Stockton
Nowhere near as big as this card, but still.
Contributor at cagepages.com Come check us out.
Head Kick Legend
thnak you bloody elbow
I appreciate your dedication to good journalism, and I am very against how UFC tries to pull the strings, thanks for the pic dudes. Sorry Dana but you are a capitalist pig-dog.
by BgArchon on Apr 8, 2011 4:29 PM EDT reply actions 2 recs
Zuffa Press Relations Strategy [Diagram]
█♣█
A wise man told me don't argue with fools
Cause people from a distance can't tell who is who -- Jay-Z
by thetakeover on Apr 8, 2011 4:29 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs
How does being denied credentials stop any media member from providing commentary? Despite being banned from events, Gross and Hunt still get tons of interviews and content. Not having credentials has not stopped anyone on this site from being able to write as an informed member of the press. If someone tells me that you have to be there to provide informed content, then how should I take the pieces on this site written from the outside?
Clearly, this is petty behavior on Zuffa’s part, but in the end, what does it really change? I’ve seen people banned from this site for reasons that I found petty, but it does not affect my perception of the content provided. For Zuffa and Dana White to take this sport into the mainstream, they’re going to have to do away with a number of their existing policies, including their treatment of the media and the abolishing of PPV, but with the sport as it is today, I really don’t see the effect that it has on the coverage and it seems like sour grapes from both sides.
by John Danaher's Hair on Apr 8, 2011 4:37 PM EDT reply actions
If Zuffa wants to be bigger, they need coverage from big news outlets. Denying CBSsports just because they hired a writer Dana doesn’t like doesn’t help them at all in reaching a new, more mainstream market.
by IRodC on Apr 8, 2011 4:42 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Hence:
For Zuffa and Dana White to take this sport into the mainstream, they’re going to have to do away with a number of their existing policies, including their treatment of the media and the abolishing of PPV, but with the sport as it is today, I really don’t see the effect that it has on the coverage and it seems like sour grapes from both sides.
You don’t think that they know this? At the end of the day, it effects their business, and last I looked their business wasn’t failing much. They know exactly what they’re doing and it really doesn’t matter. These reporters who aren’t credentialed are often more respected then those that are, yet it doesn’t affect my ability to find anti-Zuffa views, nor does it affect the UFC’s ability to be making money hand over fist. The day it does, I guarantee you it will change.
by John Danaher's Hair on Apr 8, 2011 4:54 PM EDT up reply actions
Zuffa's media policy reminds me a of a vicious pimp
“You will beg for the right to blow me.”
"Run and tweet THAT, homeboy."
by TheFilt on Apr 8, 2011 4:40 PM EDT reply actions 2 recs
c'mon...
Credentials (or lack thereof) is in no way effecting Josh Gross, Loretta Hunt or Luke Thomas from being able to ply their trade and do it well.
by John Danaher's Hair on Apr 8, 2011 4:55 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
That's true
But what I’m trying to say is in order to get credentials, you have to kiss ass. In order to keep said credentials you need to fellate anyone you’re told to..
"Run and tweet THAT, homeboy."
by TheFilt on Apr 8, 2011 5:47 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Can anyone give an example of an executive from any other major professional sports organization — MLB, NFL, NASCAR, NHL, NBA, NCAA, any boxing or soccer organization, anything — doing anything like this? Does David Stern or Gary Bettman do juvenile crap like this as a matter of policy?
Not exactly a league executive
But I think the New York Islanders management very recently did this to a media member. I forgot his name, but I think they took his credentials away for criticizing the team on his Islanders blog.
Chris Botta.
The New York Islanders have taken away press credentials from popular blogger Chris Botta.
Botta, who writes for Islanders Point Blank and AOL Fanhouse, was one of many to criticize the firing of Islanders coach Scott Gordon on Monday, since most agree that Gordon was not the team’s biggest problem.
Source: http://www.businessinsider.com/islanders-take-away-credentials-from-popular-blogger-2010-11
In a show of support, see: http://prohockeytalk.nbcsports.com/2011/04/02/new-york-hockey-writers-will-not-vote-for-year-end-awards-in-protest-of-blogger%E2%80%99s-revoked-credentials/
Friday morning, the New York Rangers chapter of the Professional Hockey Writers Association (PHWA) announced that they will abstain from voting in the year-end awards as a form of protest
"Ellismania is, along with the black President, a symbol of the future." - Mayhem Miller
Tweeter!
As an Isles fan...
if they were to ban every reporter who has criticized them, their home game attendance would go from 10 to 0.
by John Danaher's Hair on Apr 8, 2011 5:03 PM EDT up reply actions
Wait.
People actually like the Islanders? Last Isles game I went to, I spent it laughing at how horrible the Coliseum is.
"Ellismania is, along with the black President, a symbol of the future." - Mayhem Miller
Tweeter!
It's the worst arena in pro sports and the worst lease.
If you’re laughing at it, imagine if you were a pro athlete and that was your home rink. Bush league bullshit, but, unfortuantely, my loyalty apparently has no limits. ISLES Stanley Cup WINNERS 2021 baby!!!!
by John Danaher's Hair on Apr 8, 2011 5:31 PM EDT up reply actions
Hence why Nabby told Snow to go fuck himself.
To be honest, if I was in the NHL and the Islanders picked me up, I might do the same.
That place has CRT TVs in the walls. CRT TVs! My grandmother doesn’t even have a CRT TV anymore!
"Ellismania is, along with the black President, a symbol of the future." - Mayhem Miller
Tweeter!
Not good comps...
The UFC is a promotion, not a league. Throughout boxing there is a rich history of similar treatment within King’s and Arum’s promotions. When the UFC wants to make the jump into the mainstream, Dana (or Lorenzo) will have to become more of a commissioner than a promoter.
by John Danaher's Hair on Apr 8, 2011 4:59 PM EDT up reply actions
This is
exactly right.
"Sometimes I wonder if the world is being run by smart people who are putting us on, or by imbeciles who really mean it." -Mark Twain
"Life is tough, but it's tougher if you're stupid." -John Wayne
by The American Ronin on Apr 9, 2011 11:55 AM EDT up reply actions
You don't think its "wrong"?
That’s exactly what it F’ ing is. CBS Sports is a legit news outlet and you’re gonna deny them cause you don’t like the reporter. That’s just stupid. As a legit sports org denying media credentials has to be based on more than whether or not you like a reporter. There has to be some sorta outstanding issue regarding ethics, practice, or something technical. It’s BS
by Robust23 on Apr 8, 2011 5:04 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs
It’s a decision that they’ve made that has consequences. Consequences that they seem to accept. They can choose to run their business however they see fit.
Twitter: @Mike_Fagan_13
In the longrun though, it's not a consequence
Their severing of ties with CBS Sports via Loretta Hunt is just another step they’re taking to remove their newly acquired talent from the crap production they have to fight in. If they have to piss off a few people, who gives a shit, as long as they control the production of anything under the Zuffa banner. Question is now, will Strikeforce air on Versus or be completely absorbed as a whole?
Loretta Hunt got denied - she's a representative of CBSSports.com but she isn't CBSSports.com
there’s probably a conversation happening right now between some guy in CBS and some guy in the UFC – “You can send anybody, just not Loretta”
Cutting off the nose to spite the face, or
Control above all else? Probably a bit of both. Just another one of those sign and shake your head moments.
This coming from a site that censors it's own readers.
Boo hoo.
Sorry. I guess I can't have the picture of my wife in the kitchen anymore...
the difference
is that BE’s moderated comments section is a key part of our brand and a key reason we have return readers. The MMA Junkie comments don’t exactly produce a lot of gold or generate repeat visits.
What Dana is doing is bad for his own biz.
Follow me on Twitter @KidNate
by Nate Wilcox on Apr 8, 2011 6:25 PM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
Since that picture of your "wife"
is on about 1000 other websites I don’t think it’s really a huge problem that it’s not allowed here.
Why I never joined a frat: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K-KNVrZaN8M
"Don’t quote old fucks to me" – Brent Brookhouse
"A samurai would bite your cock off if you tried that shit on the battlefield." - Kid Nate
by Chris Barton on Apr 8, 2011 6:29 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
...
When a true genius appears in the world, you may know him by this sign, that the dunces are in a confederacy against him. - Jonathan Swift
Editor, HeadKickLegend.com
Contributor for CagesideSeats.com and Bloody Elbow Radio
Still Subo at Fightlinker.com
by Derek Suboticki on Apr 8, 2011 6:31 PM EDT up reply actions
It sounds bad
but it’s actually true. I’m not fucking around.
Why I never joined a frat: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K-KNVrZaN8M
"Don’t quote old fucks to me" – Brent Brookhouse
"A samurai would bite your cock off if you tried that shit on the battlefield." - Kid Nate
What are you saying Chris?
Sorry. I guess I can't have the picture of my wife in the kitchen anymore...
You know
exactly what I am talking about
Why I never joined a frat: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K-KNVrZaN8M
"Don’t quote old fucks to me" – Brent Brookhouse
"A samurai would bite your cock off if you tried that shit on the battlefield." - Kid Nate
I play by the rules and manage to say 99% of everything I have to say. It’s not that hard.
Boys becoming men...Men becoming wolves
Just don't say anything unpopular about Rashad Evans.
That will do it.
Sorry. I guess I can't have the picture of my wife in the kitchen anymore...
When you say “censor” you got to be a bit precise, because it just sounds like you’re asking for anarchy.
Boys becoming men...Men becoming wolves
Nope.
Anarchy is the stuff posted above by Luke Thomas talking about my mom. Note that Lke Thomas is from BloodyElbow.com.
Sorry. I guess I can't have the picture of my wife in the kitchen anymore...
See…while I don’t agree with what Luke posted. He did not “talk about your mom”
Managing Editor - BloodyElbow.com - SBNation's mixed martial arts headquarters.
by Brent Brookhouse on Apr 8, 2011 7:08 PM EDT up reply actions
That’s not anarchy. That Luke Thomas trying to prove you wrong with a slap in your face like he always do, it’s different ^^.
Boys becoming men...Men becoming wolves
Ah. You've learned me up good. Thanks.
What I’ve learned:
1. Posts about the general public fuc#ing others members moms: Totally cool
2. Calling Rashad Evans a whiney bit&%: Instant trouble
Sorry. I guess I can't have the picture of my wife in the kitchen anymore...
I don't know what your problem is.
I’ve never had a warning or been kicked off, and I’ve been reading BE for three years. How hard is it to act civil? The problem is, a lot of people on the internet say dumb shit that they wouldn’t have the balls to say to someone’s face. Having a civil, decent debate seems like a lost art these days.
huh…i went to see if you were lying, figuring you had to have gotten a warning at SOME point. But…no
Managing Editor - BloodyElbow.com - SBNation's mixed martial arts headquarters.
by Brent Brookhouse on Apr 8, 2011 7:01 PM EDT up reply actions
Us Canadians don’t cause trouble man. It’s just the way we are.
Still a Beer Monster.
http://www.instrength.com
I took public transit once without paying. Rebel. That’s me.
by pud333 on Apr 8, 2011 7:09 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
I bet you drink the last of the coffee without starting a fresh pot too, you renegade!
"I want to tell me what you see, let's go ahead and see by in the fight, what you saw, in the ring." - Tito Ortiz
Let me know if I can forward you the emails.
Sorry. I guess I can't have the picture of my wife in the kitchen anymore...
There is nothing un-civil about what I have posted.
It was, however, unpopular.
Sorry. I guess I can't have the picture of my wife in the kitchen anymore...
Repeatedly calling someone a “whiney little bitch” in reference to an interview wherein he was asked to comment on the subject for which you’re calling him that, while adding absolutely nothing of value to any of the conversations ongoing at the time is definitively uncivil.
Picking up your cross days (weeks?) afterward is petty.
Conducting an experiment on knocking people out in particular ways would be unethical.
Did I say "little"? I don't think I did.
But I did explain why I thought the way I did in a civil manner.
Nor did I start this up again. I only pointed out the irony of BE’s article/stance.
Sorry. I guess I can't have the picture of my wife in the kitchen anymore...
I've gotten drunk...
Plenty of times and gotten into it with some of the guys here and never got a warning. You gotta toe the line and remember that we’re guests in their house.
If some asshole walked into my home and started smearing shit on the wall, you can be damn sure I’m booting his narrow ass out.
by Sergio Hernandez on Apr 8, 2011 8:59 PM EDT up reply actions
Makes me wonder why I was singled out for sure since I've read a lot of that drunken writing.
Sorry. I guess I can't have the picture of my wife in the kitchen anymore...
First off...
Thank you.
Secondly, you have to remember that while I have vision of BEHQ looking like this:
And Nate, Brent, Leland, et al are actually this:
The truth is they’re all very much human and subject to the ups and downs of emotion. I remember one particular instance where I lashed out at Snowden, not because his article was crazy (it was) but because I was going through my own shit and vented behind a keyboard.
As much flak as I give the BE guys for taking themselves super cereal (something Luke readily admits, apparently), I do love the site.
by Sergio Hernandez on Apr 8, 2011 10:45 PM EDT up reply actions
There's supposed to be a pictures...
Of a C-3PO looking robo in the message too.
Goddammit.
I’m gonna get drunk and watch some Doctor Who.
by Sergio Hernandez on Apr 8, 2011 10:52 PM EDT up reply actions
Are you BE staff Sergio?
didn’t see your name on the front page…?
Sorry. I guess I can't have the picture of my wife in the kitchen anymore...
Cool. I'll keep wearing my Mania t-shirts.
Sorry. I guess I can't have the picture of my wife in the kitchen anymore...
:) I have 3 of them.
Two that are white with the broken octagon and blood drip. One that is black and has two skulls opposing each other. I’ve made a habit to always wear them to events at the 1st Bank Center UFC events. They must be rare enough I’ve not yet seen anyone else sporting one.
Sorry. I guess I can't have the picture of my wife in the kitchen anymore...
I'm sort of a newcomer...
That they accepted due to my stories of drunken debauchery so I didn’t even know that shirts were ever available.
I think Mania provides a nice yin to BE’s yang.
by Sergio Hernandez on Apr 9, 2011 1:50 AM EDT up reply actions
Yin/Yang is a good call.
They are certainly different. I keep trying to get more involved in the online discussion since I’m completely addicted to the sport. When I attempt contribution to the discussions it seems more welcoming over there. I was even complemented on the pic they made me take down here. Still I can’t help but visit both and other sites. I don’t want to miss out on anything.
Sorry. I guess I can't have the picture of my wife in the kitchen anymore...
I know what you...
Mean about being addicted.
Whenever I get into something, my OCD kicks in and I get OBSESSED with it.
Needless to say, I got into MMA about 16 years ago.
by Sergio Hernandez on Apr 9, 2011 2:07 AM EDT up reply actions
Good to chat with you.
I’ll look for your articles on Mania.
I’m in Colorado, so I started following from UFC 1 in 1993. I’m still bummed I didn’t get to go. I was still active wrestling at the time entering tournaments wherever I could. I didn’t have much cash at the time and bought tickets to the Sabaki Challenge which was a little earlier in Denver the same year at McNichols arena (same place as UFC 1). Was some crazy shit. I’ve been hooked since. And regret not getting my ass to the UFC 1. Soon after I was dropped on my head when wrestling a guy from team Army. Cut my wrestling off and I turned my focus to school. From then on I live a little vicariously through the sport as it’s evolved.
Sorry. I guess I can't have the picture of my wife in the kitchen anymore...
Likewise!
I try to train whenever possible but I’m very much an armchair mixed martial artist. Take care!
by Sergio Hernandez on Apr 9, 2011 2:55 AM EDT up reply actions
You’re real strange. First you claim that fairly popular pic of September Carrino in the kitchen is a picture of your wife then you get all righteous when you get moderated at. Scrambling for attention you’ve got the power to do it.
Hey. She may not be recognized as my wife legally
but I can dream of her however I choose. I don’t get the righteous comment? Please explain? Not looking for attention either. If you look at the replies to my posts today it looks a lot like the BE staff fueling the discussion.
Sorry. I guess I can't have the picture of my wife in the kitchen anymore...
Here’s my thing. This has nothing to do with Bloody Elbow. I could give a fuck if I’m credentialed or not. People can claim I’m lying but I’ve been credentialed to events that I’ve not gone to because I didn’t see the value add.
The thing here to me is entirely that a sport with the aim to be “the biggest sport on earth” shutting out CBS Sports (especially for a show that’s being broadcast on a CBS network) is an odd move. As Fagan has said several times, it’s their business and they can run it as they see fit. But to me, it will always be seen as an odd and unnecessarily petty move that leads to less coverage of their product from an established and recognized media source.
Managing Editor - BloodyElbow.com - SBNation's mixed martial arts headquarters.
by Brent Brookhouse on Apr 8, 2011 6:43 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs
It is really that surprising and odd though? It’ almost expected really. “Comply or deny” is the UFC MO for everything they do from media to fighter contracts. Total control is an absolute requirement for all that they do.
Reminds me of communist China with the credentialled journo’s acting like the 50c army!!
by GeeDub on Apr 8, 2011 7:49 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I too could give a shit about credentials
they’re counter-productive to what I do — try to keep a fan’s perspective and post the hell out of event days and day afters. but some of our writers do things where credentials would be a boon.
Follow me on Twitter @KidNate
Common Now
Getting credentialed is a good thing and wouldn’t take anything from your perspective. DW should realize that not everybody is going to be a cheerleader as long as it is in content and not in ill will. But you need to realize that for the growth of BE there will need to be some representation at these events and build some sort of relationship with Zuffa.
ah
if they want to be on an adversarial footing with us, that makes it easier for us to distinguish our brand.
Follow me on Twitter @KidNate
but seriously
going to live events really gets in the way of my work flow. we churn out about 64 bylines on a ufc weekend. can’t do that if you’re spending hours traveling back and forth to the event.
Follow me on Twitter @KidNate
by Nate Wilcox on Apr 9, 2011 12:08 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Very...
True. The only event I was press for, I got a recap done around 11pm (pointless) and stammered through a question that Ben Askren jokingly answered but I was like a deer in headlights.
That shit’s not for me.
by Sergio Hernandez on Apr 9, 2011 12:23 AM EDT up reply actions
I undersatnd but
Sending a reporter to represent BE will bring more than just stories. The reporter can establish relationship with fighters, Zuffa PR etc. in order to get BE Radio guests, have access to inside stories like Snowden’s article about SF announcing team and many other opportunities like interviews stories and scoops.
sure
it would be a plus to have creds I won’t deny it. but we’ll continue to grow with or without.
Follow me on Twitter @KidNate
Interesting image choice
Was that just the most monolithic image you could find?
When a true genius appears in the world, you may know him by this sign, that the dunces are in a confederacy against him. - Jonathan Swift
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Contributor for CagesideSeats.com and Bloody Elbow Radio
Still Subo at Fightlinker.com
Fascism is an incredibly overused word.
Bolts from the Blue // "I eat cereal out of a giant novelty wine glass because it makes me feel fancy." - Britney Wade
Bloody Elbow // "Everybody underestimates the kick in the groin." - Bas Rutten
I’m not really sure what if anything Luke has done to end up on the banned list, or if he’s just some collateral damage, and it sucks that he can’t go, but most of the people involved in these situations made their bed, and now they have to sleep in it. That includes zuffa. If they think they can make it without credentialing certain people, that’s their business. Zuffa isn’t the government, they don’t have to talk to everyone. Yes, it may make life more difficult for some journalists, but life is tough for everyone. Zuffa is actually ahead of the curve on this. Cuban made similar thoughts in his blog, and the other leagues and teams are going to start doing the same thing.
There are 3 options for the people that are banned, they can start “touching dicks” they can do nothing and whine, or they can find a way to survive without credentials. I suggest the first or the third option, those would be the best for everyone involved.
CBS and one guy at ESPN don't matter
The biggest thing “CBS” can do for MMA is get it on Showtime. Check.
MMA Live on ESPN is a legit sports journalism show and UFC grants them access to do live shows at the PPVs.
If a political journalist gets called a dickhead by a politician, they can’t hold a grudge and let it effect they way they report. Allowing their personal experience to become the story is poor journalism. If an NFL reporter wrote piece after piece about the NFL commissioner being a scumbag they’d find their access limited just as fast.
by PackMMA on Apr 8, 2011 10:04 PM EDT via mobile reply actions
UFC/Zuffa have gone a long way without CBS and ESPN
Loretta Hunt and Josh Gross has brought the wrath of Zuffa upon themselves. If CBS/ESPN want media access they shouldn’t rely on these exiled reporters and hire someone who is eligible to attend as a “member of the press.” Zuffa’s Media Policy isn’t that evil, c’mon they credentialed The Fight Nerd.
One big misconception I continue to read in this comments ...
… the UFC can afford to deny, say, Bloody Elbow or Sherdog credentials because neither of those two sites are bringing in more UFC viewers. MMA fans go to BE and Sherdog. People who go to CBS Sports go there for basketball, football, baseball, hockey … those kinds of things. By denying CBS Sports those credentials they ARE hurting themselves.
It’s why I can get access so easily for SB Nation Bay Area. Bloody Elbow kicks the living shit out of my page views and for good reason, you guys fucking rock, but I reach a different kind of people: non MMA fans. Up there, people were talking about “either or” in regards to being the biggest sport in the world or denying CBS Sports credentials – it really is either or. They cannot be the biggest sport in the world and alienate potential new fans.
And then God created Saturn ... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it.
SaberCats Examiner | SB Nation Bay Area | Niners Nation | Twitter
And so we’re very clear, I say it definitely is either/or on principle alone, not that CBS Sports will specifically be their downfall, but letting grudges get in the way of sites like CBS Sports.
And then God created Saturn ... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it.
SaberCats Examiner | SB Nation Bay Area | Niners Nation | Twitter
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