Jon Anik Introduces Laura Sanko to the UFC Commentary Team

It’s no secret that Laura Sanko has an aim to become the color commentator of the UFC. She is a lead backstage reporter for the UFC, and also a color commentator for MMA promotion Invicta FC. Sanko also works as an announcer for the Dana White’s Contender Series.

UFC’s lead announcer for the last 4 years, Jon Anik, was recently asked about his opinion of Sanko becoming a color commentator for the promotion. In an interview with MMA Junkie, Anik welcomed the idea and said that he thinks Sanko will be a great addition to the team.

Anik advised Sanko to be persistent about this goal and the opportunity will present itself. He said, “She and I have talked about it. I’ve certainly put her over for other UFC opportunities. My bosses don’t look to me for advice on how to structure the talent, but I think they know that she has a big fan in me. I certainly would love to see her on my right at some point hopefully in the not-so-distant future,” said Anik.

Jon Anik on Laura Sanko’s lack of pro-fighting experience

Laura Sanko has the experience of one professional fight under her belt. When asked if the lack of fighting experience can be a problem for her, Anik dismissed the thoughts. Instead, he drew comparisons to former UFC star Brian Stann.

“I remember Brian Stann, who won a WEC championship, often used to worry that his fight credentials, as silly as this sounds, wouldn’t stack up to maybe Kenny Florian, who had fought for the belt three times, or DC, who obviously realized titles in a couple of divisions when Stann had a major title at home.”

“I think, for Laura, the only thing working against her would be her limited professional fight experience. But not only has she fought, is she a good analytical mind, she’s (also) comedic. I think she brings a lot to the table from a personality standpoint,” added Anik.

Anik advises Sanko about her career

Anik also said that he has discussed with and advised Laura Sanko. He believes it only takes one opportunity for Sanko to prove her worth.

The UFC commentator concluded, “I have two daughters and love women and would be all for Laura getting that opportunity, I don’t know if it’ll be 2021, but I do think that eventually, she’s going to get her shot. What I really have said to her repeatedly, and she’ll tell you this, ‘All you need is your shot.’ I think all she needs is one broadcast with us and she would have a seat in the future, for sure.” 

Laura Sanko has been part of the UFC broadcasting team for a considerable amount of time now. She has always been vocal about her goals of becoming the first female color commentator of the promotion. And it looks like she is on the right path with her work.

What do you make of Laura Sanko’s chances of becoming a color commentator for the UFC? Let us know your thoughts.

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