Why Dana White HATES Ariel Helwani
What Sparked Ariel Helwani’s Feud with Dana White? Examining the Origins and Escalation of Their Conflict The Background of Dana White and Ariel Helwani
Dana White, a prominent figure in MMA, especially within the UFC, and Ariel Helwani, a leading name in MMA media, are famously at odds. Despite the potential for a mutually beneficial relationship—where Helwani could promote White's fighters on his popular 'MMA Hour' podcast, and White could provide Helwani with exclusive content—their relationship is marked by a deep-seated rivalry.
The Beginnings
Helwani quickly rose to prominence by featuring high-profile guests on his show. Recognizing Helwani's influence, White initially collaborated with him, granting him exceptional access to fighters and events. By 2010, Helwani enjoyed unparalleled backstage access and exclusive interview opportunities, courtesy of White. #danawhite #mmahour #arielhelwani
However, tensions began in 2011 when Helwani joined FOX. Although FOX and the UFC had a partnership, Helwani's critical comments about the UFC, controversial opinions on fighter pay, and interviews with fighters considering leaving the promotion strained the relationship. A particular interview with Rory MacDonald exacerbated the situation, leading to Helwani's dismissal from FOX Sports in March 2016.
UFC 199: The Turning Point
The animosity between White and Helwani reached a boiling point on June 4, 2016, at UFC 199 in Inglewood, California. With UFC 200 approaching, Helwani, covering UFC 199, leaked the news of Brock Lesnar's return at UFC 200 and the potential rematch between Conor McGregor and Nate Diaz at UFC 202 via Twitter. These revelations, meant to be surprises, infuriated White.
Helwani's leaks preempted the UFC’s planned promotional material, prompting White to have Helwani removed from UFC 199 by security. Helwani was subsequently banned from all UFC events as long as White remained president. Reflecting on the incident, Helwani recounted being confronted by White and expelled from the venue, being told, "You’re out. Get out of here. You’re done. We don’t want you here anymore. Go to Bellator."
Ongoing Hostility
Despite Helwani joining ESPN in 2018 and being allowed to attend UFC events, the feud continued. White insisted that Helwani be removed whenever he was present. As recently as UFC 282, White publicly disparaged Helwani on a podcast with UFC fighter Paddy Pimblett, calling him a "rodent" and claiming he had been fired from every reputable job.
The prospect of reconciliation between White and Helwani remains bleak, even though a cooperative relationship could be advantageous for both parties.