A growing dissatisfaction among fans regarding the UFC’s reliance on artificial intelligence for promotional materials has now found an advocate within the organization itself. A UFC fighter has voiced his opposition to this trend.
Fans of combat sports have frequently voiced their disappointment with the MMA leader’s event promotions, often contrasting them with the grand, cinematic presentations typical of major boxing promotions, which are perceived as more polished and impactful.
With AI rapidly transforming content creation and video production, the UFC appears to be increasingly adopting this technology. This shift was particularly noticeable in the teaser for UFC Freedom 250, scheduled to be held at the White House. This promo, largely generated by AI, quickly ignited a debate among fans.
Despite mounting criticism from the community, UFC President Dana White and Chief Content Officer Craig Borsari have indicated plans to further integrate AI and similar technologies. White directly addressed the backlash, stating, “shut the fu*k up and watch the fights,” when questioned about the criticism.
However, UFC fighter Renato Moicano holds a different perspective, suggesting that the move towards AI-generated content is a disservice to UFC fans.
Renato Moicano Expresses Frustration Over UFC’s AI-Generated Promos
During a recent appearance on The Ariel Helwani Show, Renato Moicano directly addressed the UFC’s AI-generated promo for its White House event. Moicano argued that a promotion generating record revenue should prioritize high-quality production over machine-made videos, which he believes fall short of fan expectations.
“UFC is not going to be very happy for me to say that, but I didn’t like it,” Moicano stated. “I think that’s disrespectful towards the fans, because I am a fan myself. If you can’t put Alex Pereira or Ilia Topuria on an airplane and put them in Washington in front of the White House, I don’t think that’s good. I think that’s sloppy. I don’t like to use AI in my stuff. I’m not saying AI doesn’t help, some stuff I use AI. But not for content. Because I think people can see that’s just sloppy. That’s brain rot.”
