How did you get into journalism?
I remember reading Sports Illustrated in the ninth grade, and it stated Syracuse University was the best school for sports journalism. I didn’t realize before then that you could actually study that. That’s when I decided I wanted to pursue this career because I loved the idea of covering sports for a living. I eventually graduated from SU.
When did you realize you wanted to pursue sports journalism as a career?
In the spring of 2004, I covered the Montreal Expos final Spring Training in Melbourne, FL. I couldn’t travel home to Montreal during spring break because my visa was being processed so I convinced the Expos, my favorite baseball team, to let me cover them for a week. Very few journalists were covering the team at that time, so I really had carte blanche to do whatever I wanted to do at the stadium. It was a huge thrill. I knew after that trip I wanted to cover sports for a living.
What has been your most interesting on-air situation to date?
There have been a few. Most interesting would probably be doing my show on the Monday after I got banned from covering the UFC events in June 2016. I decided I would lay all my cards on the table in an effort to save my career and also tell the truth once and for all on my relationship with Fox and the UFC. Thankfully, in large part due to the fans’ support, I was reinstated.
Any moments of regret?
Not many, but I do wish I never accepted to be paid by the UFC when I was working for FOX. I tried to fight it constantly and they never budged. It went against everything I believe in, but in the end, that was the only job on TV in MMA, so I agreed to it. I wish I did not.
Do you have a personal stylist?
No.
How do you define your personal style?
For the most part, cozy. I like to be comfortable and casual.
How does fashion intersect with your day-to-day functions or on-air duties?
There have been two constants in my career: my plaid shirts and my colorful Nike SBs. They have been with me from day 1 on this journey. I’m not sure how long the shoes will stay around for, but I’m fairly certain the shirts will be with me for a while. I guess they have helped set me apart to a degree.
How has your personal style evolved from your early career until now?
Once I was on TV more regularly, I started to wear full suits. I think it’s more appropriate to wear a full suit on fight night because that’s a special time. Otherwise, it’s pretty much remained the same since the beginning.
