MMA journalist Ariel Helwani has revealed that he was removed from UFC 199 last night and has been apparently issued a life ban from the sport.
Fellow MMA writers E. Casey Leydon and Esther Lin from MMAfighting.com were also escorted away from the event, and were forced to surrender their credentials along with Helwani.
It is believed that the action was taken after Helwani and MMAfighting.com broke news that Brock Lesnar would be making his return at UFC 200, hours ahead of the UFC's official announcement.
According to Helwani, they were also told they were 'banned for life' from further UFC events.
I was escorted out of the building by Zuffa staff before the main event. Credential taken away, too. Didn't see Bisping realize his dream.
— Ariel Helwani (@arielhelwani) June 5, 2016
My long-time colleagues @ekc and @allelbows were also escorted out of the building w/ me. Sorry to report no post-fight coverage tonight.
— Ariel Helwani (@arielhelwani) June 5, 2016
The reputable MMA reporter expressed his love for the sport and said he hopes the matter will be resolved soon.
I love this sport & this job with all my heart. Did nothing unethical. I reported fight news. That's it. & then told we're banned for life.
— Ariel Helwani (@arielhelwani) June 5, 2016
My teammates and friends @Ekc and @allelbows are the very best at what they do. I wish they didn't have to leave with me. They did nothing.
— Ariel Helwani (@arielhelwani) June 5, 2016
Here's hoping cooler heads prevail. I sincerely love every fighter & fan of this sport. You have helped me realize a dream. Thank you.
— Ariel Helwani (@arielhelwani) June 5, 2016
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