MCB'ers talk a lot of fluff, but business is where it all hits the fan (and there is crossover in here as well, let's face it).
You will find guys that talk all buddy-buddy and wanna be your best friend and this and that, and they even come with great references and guys vouching for each other, but ultimately will screw you first chance they get. And it will be YOUR fault.
Protect yourself in the ring at all times.
Assume anyone responding to you is a total freaking idiot, lay out all terms and conditions up front, and most importantly, never risk anything you're not willing to lose.
Personally, in this case, I would proudly accept the negative feedback, and then go all Johnny-letter explaining the situation openly so everyone could see. Because transparency only hurts dishonest people.
"Accuracy by aiming."
Definitely not on the A-Team.