Bellator CEO Bjorn Rebney has responded to the backlash over War Machine’s tweets. In an emailed statement to Bleacher Report on Saturday night, August 10, 2013, Rebney said he agreed with those who found Jon Koppenhaver’s earlier statement offensive and inappropriate.
Rebney said the fighter’s public apology does not excuse what he said, but that it shows he understands how serious it was. He said he believes in treating fighters like human beings, and that human beings make mistakes. He also pointed to contracts Bellator has ended with other fighters over assault and legal trouble, saying he is prepared to act when it is warranted. In this case, he said he hopes Koppenhaver will learn from the mistake and become a better man for it, and that he wants to “give him that chance.”
Here is the timeline. Earlier in the day, Koppenhaver tweeted jokes about rape. When followers objected, he reportedly defended the posts and sent more heated replies. A couple of hours later he apologized, calling the earlier tweet “stupid, insensitive and wrong.” Bellator’s statement did not mention a fine or suspension.
Some critics, including the Baller Alert writer who first covered the tweets, felt a Twitter apology was not enough. They argued that a fine donated to a rape crisis center and some volunteer time at a shelter for abused women and children would show the company takes the issue seriously. Others may feel that giving a fighter a chance to learn from a mistake is fair. Where do you land?
Baller Alert reached out to Rebney and Bellator for comment before the statement was released.
Made to order and shipped to your door.
