Look, Brazil is cool with the soccer, the giant statue of Jesus — they even have the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro. However, when it comes to Brazilian MMA journalism, caralho! This isn’t the first time I’ve brought this up on MiddleEasy. When UFC 146 happened in Las Vegas around this time last year, I distinctly remember getting up from my cageside press seat and navigating through a labyrinth of camera phones and signed merchandise held by Brazilian media members. When I made my way back to my assigned seat, three people were in my seat and refused to get up even when I showed them my name matched the label on the table. Apparently they were friends of a Brazilian videographer that used his press pass to literally hop over the fence and get a closer view.
This isn’t an isolated incident. It literally happens every time Brazilians fight in Las Vegas. During UFC 148 when Silva took on Sonnen, press row was such a chaotic mishmash of Brazilian media that I ended up watching the main event standing next to UFC Director of Communications Dave Sholler from the gate of the arena.
Let’s get this clear, Brazilian MMA media. We’re all fans of MMA. That’s the reason why we cover it. However you need to separate your fandom from being professional. That’s just a very round-about way of saying stop being morons. It’s also important to note @mmabrasil is the greatest thing that’s ever happened to Brazilian MMA media.
During the post-fight press conference when @MMAjunkieJohn asked a reasonable question about Vitor Belfort’s TRT usage this happened, and it’s pretty embarrassing that Belfort’s response warranted applause from Brazilian media. Check it out.
