It's mostly because they want to use their jokes for a special down the road, but if someone records them during a smaller venue with the same jokes, it'll ruin the special.

Not to mention it could be a bit they're still working on and fleshing out, so not only will it be out there already but it will be a potentially subpar version of the bit.

Or they do it because because they don't want to be called out on a bad set. (I've heard a venue guy from Detroit pointing out Chappel for that)

Found the article on the Detroit one: http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/dave-chappelle-fans...

I could have sworn he had issues at a PA show as well, but that was recorded.

Hannibal Burress doesn't like it because he said some unverified bits about Cosby and got caught. (Unsubstiated at the time)

I'd believe it. I love Chappelle's show and specials. I won't go see him live again though. I saw him once about 10 years ago and it was a big disappointment. He was very stoned, and the only interesting part was when he dressed down an audience member who kept yelling at him about Rick James.

'unverified bit'... is not a thing.

Comedians tell jokes, they aren't news organizations that need to do fact checking.

And even if they did hold to that standard, what a crazy bad example to pick. He was correct. So you think he got 'caught' telling a joke that had true facts that hadn't been verified yet?

Comedians can tell jokes and make exaggerations, but they can't fully go out and slander. (Even if it later comes out to be true)