UFC commentator Laura Sanko has something to say to a former fighter who thinks her analysis ‘ruins fights.’ She keeps it straight and simple in her response.
If you’re going to come at Laura Sanko, the UFC commentator who’s made her mark in MMA history, be prepared. She’s got the support of almost the entire MMA community backing her up.
Former UFC Fighter Critiques Beloved Commentator
Former UFC fighter Jamie Varner surprised many with his criticism of commentator Laura Sanko during UFC Vegas 89, while she was on the desk at the Apex.
Sanko used to throw down as a pro MMA athlete in the Invicta Fighting Championship. She hung up her gloves with a winning record before making waves in 2021 as the first female commentator to grace a broadcast under the Zuffa/Endeavor banner.
Fast forward to 2023, she shattered another glass ceiling by becoming the first female color commentator on a UFC broadcast since 1993. And to top it off, she made her UFC PPV debut later that year, continuing to pave the way for women in MMA media.
On the other hand, Varner fought in the UFC from 2006 to 2014. He had a rough time, with six losses and only three wins in two tries. One of those wins was a knockout against Edson Barboza, but Varner ended on a tough note, losing his last four UFC matches before calling it quits.
Laura Sanko Responds to Former UFC Fighter Jamie Varner’s Remarks
As Varner’s comments stirred up discussions in the MMA community, Sanko didn’t hesitate to address them.
@jamievarner you and I actually fought on the same card in 2011 for Titan FC. We warmed up next to each other in the basement of the Memorial Hall building in KCK. My best friend braided your hair because you couldn’t find anyone to do it. I remember thinking how cool it was at…
— Laura Sanko (@laura_sanko) March 24, 2024
“@jamievarner you and I actually fought on the same card in 2011 for Titan FC. We warmed up next to each other in the basement of the Memorial Hall building in KCK. My best friend braided your hair because you couldn’t find anyone to do it. I remember thinking how cool it was at the time to be on a card with you. I had followed your career in the WEC and was a little star struck to be honest.
“It’s ok that you don’t like my commentary, but respectfully, I’ve been a part of this game and training since 2006. I’m a brown belt in Jiu Jitsu and while I can’t compare my career to yours I have in fact fought. And if UFC had a 105 division I would have fought a lot longer.”
Rather than dwelling on the critique of her commentary abilities, Sanko emphasized her extensive experience as one of the most seasoned female media figures in the UFC.
1) What Jamie tweeted is just plain ignorant. 2) Laura is the best analyst the UFC has, she not only knows what she’s talking about, she knows how to do TV. I’ve done pxp for over 350 MMA show, it’d be an honor to work with someone as good as her. https://t.co/HldJ87rkxX
— Rodrigo Del Campo González (@RodDelCampo) March 24, 2024
