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“They Could F***ing Pronounce My Name Right”: Jon Anik Recalls Deceased UFC Star’s Public Criticism That Made Him “Serious”

Published 01/11/2023, 12:36 AM EST

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Jon Anik, the smooth-talking American MMA commentator, recently took a seat with Michael Bisping and Anthony Smith. This was for their latest episode of the popular ‘Michael Bisping Podcast.’ In their lengthy conversation, Anik gave insight into the world of UFC fighters and upcoming events. But more importantly, he revealed just how seriously he takes his job as a commentator and the impact of messing up on the big stage.

As a commentator, the job is to paint a picture for the audience and bring them into the world of the fighters. One slip-up and the image is tarnished. In addition, the audience is out of the experience. Moreover, the pressure is intense to deliver a seamless broadcast.

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Anik went on to explain that this pressure is not only felt by commentators but also by the fighters themselves. Since they are under the spotlight and need to perform at the highest level. With this in mind, Anik emphasized the importance of preparation and dedication to the craft. He makes sure of his research, so that when the bright lights and the big stage come around. He can deliver an experience that does the fighters and the sport justice.

UFC Commentator Jon Anik: The Man Behind the Mic and his Secret Fighting Formula

Michael Bisping praised Jon Anik for his attention to detail and dedication. Which is important in order to make sure every fighter gets the recognition they deserve. Bisping also talked about Jon’s enthusiasm and animation, and how it translates to the screen for viewers at home. Bisping asked Jon to talk about his process for commentating on fights.

Anik said, “Candidly I remember the late Josh Samman was very put off in the day when in his UFC debut they called him Josh Salmon.

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He put out something publicly, and he said you know it took me my whole life to get to the UFC. All my family and friends are watching. Maybe they could fu*king pronounce my name right.” He further added.

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In response, Jon Anik expressed his gratitude for the compliment. Furthermore, he explained that the two things he can always control in his job are his work ethic and energy on fight night. He emphasized his goal to humanize the fighters and make their fans care about them.

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Moreover, provide accurate information about their backgrounds. He also mentioned the challenges he faces when he has to commentate on a large number of fighters in a short period of time. What’s more such an attitude calls for praise and Joe Rogan called Jon Anik the best in the history

Anik spills the beans: A behind-the-scenes look at working for the legendary Dana White

Jon Anik, the voice of the octagon, went off script and gave us a real taste of what it’s like working for the big boss Dana White. It’s a high-stakes job where you got to bring your best every show, or risk getting the boot, but when you’re killing it, there’s nothing like it.

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He said, “You know, working for a guy like Dana White. For all three of us, you gotta earn in every show.

“Like I could be fired at any time without cause and if you don’t think that. After a couple of bad shows, if my effort’s not there, I’m fu*king gone.

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In conclusion, the world of UFC commentating is not for the faint of heart. It takes dedication, attention to detail, and a lot of energy to keep up with the pace. Jon Anik proves that it takes hard work, passion, and willingness to go the extra mile to make the fighters come to life and connect with their fans. Which is truly an admirable effort that deserves recognition.

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Written by:

Himakshu Vyas

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Himakshu Vyas is a Combat Sports author at Essentiallysports. He is passionate about sports, with soccer and MMA being the sports he is most involved in. Aside from that, he follows the global soccer scene.
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Edited by:

Yeswanth Praveen