Are We Going To See Less MMA Media Coverage?
Or Man, Things Sure Don't Look So Good
Welcome to the latest C’mon Now newsletter. This is the place where I’ll share my thoughts on all the goings-on in MMA. Those thoughts could range from media criticism to advice for folks looking to get into MMA writing to why certain fighters or managers are not good for the sport.
Today I discuss uncertain times for MMA media.
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I’m nervous and I doubt I’m alone in feeling that way.
Let me explain why.
I am a full-time freelance MMA writer. A lot of my income is tied to UFC events, you know, actually happening. With no events on the horizon, I will take a big hit in the pocket. What makes that more frightening is that as an independent contractor, I am ineligible for unemployment, which sucks.
In October I wrote about how I make a living as a full-time MMA freelancer. In that blog I wrote that I made $55K in 2018. In 2019, my final income amount was $36K. This year, I’m guessing I will make a lot less than that. I think I’ll be fine because I have savings to fall back on. However, if things drag on for months and there are no UFC events to report on, I will have to reconsider this whole full-time freelancer thing.
I’m sure I’m not the only one in this situation and I’m guessing others, who are either full-time or part-time freelancers are feeling the pinch a lot more than I am. I’m also pretty sure those who have full-time positions with benefits are also concerned about possible layoffs.
Do you know something about UFC, USADA, an MMA manager or a fighter, that I should know? You can email me at trent.reinsmith@gmail.com or contact me via secure messaging on Telegram at trentreinsmith.
I’ll stop here to say that I know health is more important than sports and that MMA writers are not the only ones who are going to face tough times, but this is what I know, so this is what I’m writing about.
With no MMA events taking place for the foreseeable future, I’m left to wonder what affect the coronavirus pandemic will have on the MMA media landscape. At best, things will remain the same, but I don’t think that will happen. I’m worried that we’ll see a retraction in the already tiny number of media positions available. I guess that’s not too different from what mainstream journalists have been facing for the past few years with the closing of newspapers, weeklies and websites, but it really hasn’t hit MMA because their was always something to cover. That’s changed and I fear that change will hit MMA media for the worst.
I hope I am wrong.
Okay, I have a Patreon now and what that does is offer you access to these newsletters and the podcast as soon as I get them wrapped up. So, no need to wait until 6 am ET to get them via email. One other thing I am going to provide over there is access to some reading, watching and listening suggestions for you. I’ll try and get you hooked on those suggestions in the next few newsletters and hopefully you’ll join the Patreon. There’s no minimum or limit, so contribute what you like, if you like.
Listen:
Lee Morgan “Sidewinder.” Bosch is coming back and Lee Morgan often gets a mention in Michael Connelly’s books and in the show.
Watch:
Bosch- New Season is coming so, why not go back and watch the others?
Read:
Michael Connelly - His books go by fast and they are very entertaining.
Look:
Garry Winogrand - Depending on the day, this is my favorite photo ever.
