In a recent revelation, Ariel Helwani stated that Michael Bisping owes much of his success to his reporting. The conflict arose when Helwani reported on the uncertainty surrounding Conor McGregor’s comeback on June 29, triggering a dispute with Bisping. Despite Bisping’s initial dismissal of Helwani’s claims as rumors, subsequent events proved Helwani’s reporting to be correct.
Helwani also disclosed that he had tipped off Bisping about the chance to replace and fight Luke Rockhold at UFC 199, a move that ultimately led to Bisping’s victory and claiming the UFC championship. Helwani expressed disappointment that Bisping did not acknowledge his critical role in this opportunity and criticized Bisping on his podcast.
Helwani stated that no other fighter has benefited as much from his reporting as Bisping has and stated that he is not seeking an apology from Bisping. He underscored the significant impact his reporting had on Bisping’s career and expressed frustration that Bisping had not shown any gratitude for his part in Bisping’s accomplishments.
