MMA news is full of negative stories. It’s what drives views. Drug test failures, fighter contracts, criminal arrests, fighters beefing and harsh critical analysis dominate the headlines.
Often buried in these stories are positive ones that will never capture the attention of a large audience. To start the morning off on the right side of the bed, I’ve gathered the best that MMA offered in an article called Good Morning MMA.
We will look at stories that advance the sport of MMA and/or evoke an emotional, but positive, reaction from viewers. These stories can be feats of heroism, great accomplishments, a fighter with a positive attitude or a touching story.
Helwani Emotional During 300th Episode
Ariel Helwani is the most accomplished MMA journalist in the game. He has won multiple awards, has broken some of the biggest news stories, and has one of the most entertaining shows in MMA.
The MMA Hour celebrated its 300th episode on Monday with a star studded cast. At the end of the episode, a package played with many fighters and MMA personalities giving Helwani a heartfelt message. To see a journalist get this much love from a wide variety of people in the community is great for the sport. Watch Helwani’s reaction below.
Happy As a Puppy Dog:
Sage Northcutt has been touted for his looks, ability and his age. He did a great job of showing his overall MMA game in as little time as possible at UFC 192. A 59 second TKO of Francisco Trevino was followed by a joyful interview with Joe Rogan. By his looks you wouldn’t guess that Northcutt is 19, but the overcoming emotions of happiness he displayed really show that he’s just a kid. I would feel the same way if I had a UFC win to my name before I turned 20.
Ronda Going Mainstream
Ronda Rousey has been able to establish herself as the current most well known fighter in the UFC. It’s hard not to find Rousey on a media platform that usually doesn’t cover fighting. This week was a big one for Rousey, having her promotional video for UFC 193 tweeted out by Ellen, being the first female to be on the cover of Men’s Fitness and now she will be the first woman to host SportCenter. This was a good week for Rousey and the sport of MMA.
Good Morning MMA was created in order to spread positivity and to generate a good start to the morning. Approximately 8% of American and Canadian adults suffer from major depression. Mornings are often a tough time for these individuals as symptoms are more severe during the early time of day.
With every Good Morning MMA, $5 will be donated to the Canadian Mental Health Association. To donate, visit their website or click this link.