MMA journalism is often criticized for revolving around surface-level questions rather than addressing the deeper issues affecting the sport. Ariel Helwani, however, has long stood out as a voice unafraid to confront uncomfortable truths. Whether calling out Dana White for the UFC’s underwhelming UFC 322 main event announcement or questioning the long-term health of the sport under the promotion’s dominance, the Canadian journalist has consistently pushed the conversation forward.
That fearless approach came at a cost. In 2016, Helwani’s directness led to a very public falling out with the UFC, straining his relationship with the company for years.