Paramount and the UFC have announced a significant, long-term contract renewal with veteran analyst and commentator Laura Sanko. Sanko will continue to be a key voice in UFC fight coverage, which is exclusively broadcast on Paramount+ in the U.S. and Latin America. Her role will include serving as a desk analyst for the upcoming, highly anticipated UFC 327 event in Miami, Florida.
Sanko’s journey with the UFC began in 2016 as a backstage reporter for Fox. She transitioned to the inaugural season of Dana White’s Contender Series in 2017 in a similar capacity. In 2021, Sanko made history by becoming the first female color commentator in the modern era of the UFC, also on DWCS. She further cemented her place in broadcast history in February 2023, making her UFC broadcast debut at UFC Fight Night: Lewis vs. Spivac. Her ongoing responsibilities include conducting fighter interviews, providing cageside reporting, and appearing on the morning weigh-in shows.
With a background as a jiu-jitsu black belt and a former Invicta FC atomweight fighter, Sanko brings invaluable firsthand combat experience and a high fight IQ to her commentary. She offers insightful analysis, unique fight breakdowns, and detailed observations of the action.
Expressing her enthusiasm, Sanko stated, “It is an incredible honor to continue my journey with the UFC as a color commentator and analyst. 2026 will mark my 10th year on air with the UFC, and it has been an amazing ride. I am particularly grateful to the UFC for entrusting me with a role that was new territory for a woman at the time. I’ve cherished every moment of analysis and storytelling this job has provided. From Dana White’s Contender Series to numbered events, from the analyst desk to cageside commentary, I am prepared to deliver my best to the broadcasts and continue connecting with both the dedicated hardcore fans and the millions of new fans Paramount+ is introducing to the sport. I believe we have the best team in the world, from my broadcast colleagues to our producers and everyone behind the scenes, and I’m excited for another incredible chapter!”