"ESPN and DAZN are left" - Ariel Helwani reports major MMA organization sale in the works after Showtime Boxing’s demise, fans weigh-in

MMA journalist Ariel Helwani has sent ripples through the MMA community after taking to Twitter to report that Bellator MMA is in the process of being sold. Helwani took to Twitter to break the news, stating:

"Expect the sale of Bellator to be completed in the coming weeks."

This revelation comes hot on the heels of Paramount's decision to cease its involvement in Showtime Sports and Showtime Boxing by the close of 2023.

Paramount's decision to exit the world of combat sports by shuttering Showtime Boxing signifies the end of an era. CBS, with a storied history in boxing, has decided to part ways with the sport after decades of involvement.

Fans and enthusiasts of mixed martial arts have been quick to voice their opinions on the matter. Many are pondering the implications of the sale in the landscape of combat sports.

One fan highlighted the remaining major players in the field, stating:

"Damn, ESPN and DAZN are left."

Another fan speculated about the potential market dynamics, saying:

"So basically once PFL buys it ESPN will almost have a complete monopoly over all combat sports content. PFL, Bellator, and UFC. Also, Top Rank for boxing on ESPN with DAZN as their last remaining competition."

There are even suggestions that this development could lead to further changes in the MMA industry, as one fan wrote:

"Maybe Dana White - UFC & Endeavor buyout Bellator, just like when Vince McMahon & WWE bought out WCW and turns Bellator into a 'Smackdown' type of MMA role as the 2nd brand for the UFC 👀."

"Withdrawing from boxing and selling Bellator, Paramount will seem to break off with combat sports."

"PFL absorbs Bellator, yet still is about 1/3 the UFC. Talent wise. Yet promising! Another viable option for fighters is always good."

"No way! Showtime had the best production in boxing. So sad to see"

"Dana White was right again. He predicted everything. Bellator and PFL is next."

Check out the reactions on Ariel Helwani's post below:

via. @arielhelwani's X post

---

Ariel Helwani shares his thoughts on the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict

The Israel-Palestine conflict, a tumultuous issue with deep historical roots, has once again erupted, capturing global attention. As the world watches the escalating tension, prominent sports journalist Ariel Helwani has weighed in on the crisis, sharing his heartfelt thoughts and concerns via X.

He wrote:

"My heart is broken seeing what is happening in the Middle East right now. I was in Israel in August for the first time in 15 years and was reminded of how special of a place it is and can be for people of all faiths. Today’s scenes are horrific. Truly. Praying for this to end soon with peace in the region once and for all. I’ll never understand how anyone can support this violence. My heart is with all the innocent victims and the families affected. Am Israel chai."

Check out the Ariel Helwani's tweet below: