One of MMA’s most prominent voices Ariel Helwani has openly criticized the UFC and PFL for enforcing uniform policies that restrict fighters from showcasing their individuality and personal sponsors. Helwani described the practice as “blasphemous.”
Ariel Helwani Slams UFC over Uniforms
Ariel Helwani, speaking on his show, argued that forced uniforms strips away a key element of what makes combat sports special: the fighters’ unique identities.“The beauty of the fight game is individuality,” Helwani said. “It’s what helps us fall in love with these guys.” He lamented the days when fighters like Jon Jones could walk out with Nike and Gatorade endorsements or Anderson Silva with Burger King logos.