Laura Sanko Signs Long-Term Extension with UFC

Paramount (a Skydance Corporation) and the UFC have announced a significant long-term contract renewal with veteran analyst and commentator Laura Sanko. Sanko will continue her comprehensive fight coverage on Paramount+, the exclusive platform for UFC content in the United States and Latin America. Her immediate involvement includes serving as the desk analyst for the 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 Dana White's Contender Series in the same capacity in 2017. In 2021, she made history by becoming the first female color commentator in the modern UFC era during the inaugural season of DWCS. Her broadcast debut on a main UFC card occurred on February 4, 2023, at UFC FIGHT NIGHT: LEWIS vs. SPIVAC, marking another significant milestone. Sanko's ongoing responsibilities include conducting fighter interviews, providing cage-side reporting, and anchoring the morning weigh-in shows.

A black belt in jiu-jitsu and a former Invicta FC atomweight fighter with a professional record of 1-0 and an amateur record of 4-1, Sanko brings invaluable firsthand combat experience and a keen fight IQ to her commentary. Her insights, unique analysis, and detailed breakdowns offer a sophisticated perspective on the action in the octagon.

“It is an incredible honor to continue my journey with the UFC as a color commentator and analyst,” Sanko stated. “2026 will mark my 10th year on air with the UFC, and it has been an extraordinary experience. I am especially grateful to the UFC for the opportunity to step into a role that was, at the time, uncharted territory for a woman. I have 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 cage-side commentary, I am eager to deliver my best to the broadcasts and continue connecting with both the dedicated fan base and the millions of new fans Paramount+ is bringing to the sport. Working alongside my broadcast partners, producers, and everyone behind the scenes, we truly have the best team in the world, and I am excited for another amazing chapter!”