Reuters today suspended with immediate effect all coverage of pre-tournament events and training sessions, including TV, online, text and picture coverage.
The move follows talks between a coalition of 30 media bodies and the IRB over the extent of the rights the press have to cover the Rugby World Cup.
A meeting took place in Belfast last month between the coalition and the IRB, where many of the top-line issues at stake were thought to have been resolved.
The main issues centre on online rights, with confusion about the number of photos the press can publish online. Other issues concern accreditation for photographers.
Reuters said it was necessary to suspend coverage to protect its clients, who include national newspapers, broadcasters and other media outlets across the world.
Monique Villa, managing director media at Reuters, said: "Reuters regrets this course of action. However, protecting the interests and coverage rights of our global client base is of key importance to Reuters.
"Amid growing confusion and uncertainty over reporting terms, and the IRB's unwillingness to engage with us to resolve the dispute over accreditation terms, Reuters is unable to continue coverage as planned."
Talks between Reuters and the IRB remain on-going and it is hoped the suspension can be lifted as the tournament gets underway.
Villa said: "Reuters would like to resume coverage of the Rugby World Cup, to provide the world's media with premium, timely text, photographs and TV. However, freedom of the press and our editorial integrity are at the core of our business, and these must be respected."