Ariel Helwani earns respect from fans for shutting down ‘disrespectful nonsense’ at Jake Paul press conference

MMA journalist Ariel Helwani shutting down a 'disrespectful' influencer earned him widespread praise among fans on Thursday.

Helwani was acting as the moderator at the Jake Paul vs Mike Perry press conference, fielding questions from various media groups as the two fighters prepare to meet in the ring on Saturday night.

3

But as one influencer tried to ask a question, Helwani was having none of it as he started: "I just want to ask Mike Perry, how are you going to feel when you're laying on the ground…"

At this point, Helwani interjected and said: "No, no, no. We are not doing this, we are not doing this. Don't answer that.

"Bulls***. We are not doing that. Why does this happen every time? I don't like it. We are not doing it."

He then swiftly moved on to the next question while he posted the clip to his 1.4 million followers on X with the caption: "As long as I’m hosting these pressers, these BS 'influencer' questions will not fly.

READ MORE ON JAKE PAUL

Mike Perry turns down Jake Paul's bizarre pre-fight bet at heated press conference

Fans concerned Jake Paul vs Mike Perry is a 'mismatch' after watching open workout

"Enough with this disrespectful nonsense."

The reaction was one of praise for Helwani for not entertaining the influencers looking to make a viral clip rather than ask a serious question.

One fan responded: "Good job Ariel. These kids are clowns, terrible for the sport. Where are the professionals?"

Another wrote: "You’re the goat Ariel!! The OG stood on buisness with this one."

3

3

A third said: "Ariel the realest."

While another fan put: "Tell em Ariel! You handled that perfectly."

Most read in Boxing

Gervonta Davis targeting alternative fight after Vasyl Lomachenko collapse

Crawford had heavyweight sparring partner on 'wobbly legs' in warning to Canelo

Michael Bisping rips into Jake Paul after 'little leprechaun' insult at Conor McGregor

Jake Paul offers rival Mike Perry new job after he was fired by Conor McGregor

And this supporter said: "Ariel, you are at the top of your game. Respect."

Paul will face Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) star Perry on Saturday night at the Amalie Arena in Tampa, Florida.

Read More on talkSPORT

Every completed transfer in 2024 summer window including Yoro to Manchester United

Conor McGregor 'fires' Mike Perry from bare-knuckle league and savages Jake Paul after KO

The 32-year-old, who has only ever fought once in boxing, was roped in to replace Mike Tyson, who was originally set to face Paul this weekend.

However, 'Iron Mike' had to postpone the fight due to a health scare, though fan are already calling this Saturday's clash 'a mismatch'.

Boxing WhatsApp channel

Get the latest fight news, reaction and the best opinion from talkSPORT pundits in our Boxing WhatsApp channel.

Follow our Boxing channel HERE.