Laura Sanko has quickly become a beloved figure among UFC fans for her insightful commentary and dynamic presence during broadcasts. However, even the most respected figures in the industry are not immune to criticism, as was evident during UFC Vegas 89 when former WEC champion Jamie Varner aimed Sanko’s commentary in a series of since-deleted tweets.
@jamievarner you and I 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
Varner’s criticism, which labeled Sanko as inadequate for the role and questioned her knowledge of the sport, sparked a debate within the MMA community. While criticism is part and parcel of being in the public eye, many, including fellow commentator Alan Jouban, believe that Varner’s remarks crossed a line.
Jouban, who is no stranger to the rigors of broadcasting, understands that criticism comes with the territory. However, he disagrees with Varner’s assessment and believes that Sanko’s background in MMA more than qualifies her for her role as a commentator.
“In focusing on the wrong aspects, Varner missed the mark,” Jouban remarked during a recent episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer podcast. “Laura is well-educated and articulate, with a deep understanding of the sport. Just because she may not have utilized certain techniques in her fighting career doesn’t diminish her ability to provide insightful commentary.”
Indeed, Sanko’s response to Varner’s criticism exemplified grace under pressure. In a tweet reminding Varner of their shared history on the fight circuit, Sanko showcased not only her professionalism but also her ability to handle adversity with poise.
Jouban, who has faced his fair share of criticism throughout his career, acknowledges the difficulty of shrugging off negative comments, particularly in the realm of broadcasting.
“When you’re in the spotlight, you’re bound to encounter criticism,” Jouban explained. “But unlike fighting, where criticism is often directed at your performance in the cage, broadcasting involves shaping the narrative and guiding the audience through the event. It’s a different kind of pressure.”
Despite the challenges, Jouban believes that Sanko’s versatility and talent make her an invaluable asset to the UFC. From her role as a color commentator to her work as a backstage interviewer, Sanko has proven herself to be a multifaceted talent capable of excelling in various capacities.
“Laura is a unicorn in the world of broadcasting,” Jouban praised. “Her ability to seamlessly transition between roles and connect with diverse audiences sets her apart. The UFC recognizes her value, which is why she’s constantly in demand.”
As for Varner’s comments, Jouban refrains from passing judgment but emphasizes the importance of constructive criticism.
“Everyone is entitled to their opinion,” Jouban remarked. “But there’s a right and a wrong way to express it. Criticism should be constructive, not inflammatory. Laura handled the situation with grace, and I commend her for that.”
In an industry where voices are amplified and opinions abound, Laura Sanko’s resilience in the face of criticism serves as a reminder of the importance of professionalism and respect. As she continues to carve her path in the world of MMA broadcasting, her dedication and expertise are undeniable, earning her the admiration of fans and peers alike.
Beyond her work as a color commentator, Jouban also praised Sanko for the work she’s done in other facets since joining the UFC broadcast team. Sanko originally started as a backstage interviewer and now wears many hats, including her more recent gig as a color commentator.
Jouban believes that makes her even more valuable to the promotion.
“Laura’s a unicorn for the UFC,” Jouban said. “That’s why they love her. That’s why [executive producer] Zach Candito puts her on so many jobs. How many of us that do this can do color commentary, do the desk job post and pre-fight show, do sideline reporting, can do interviews backstage, and also has a great personality? [She] can go do the weigh-in show with [Daniel Cormier] and hold her own against former champions drinking beer in a very guy-oriented environment and hold her own. She can do all these jobs and hang with everybody.
“She’s like a utility knife of this type of job. They can put her anywhere and she’ll be able to do a great job. That’s why she’s always constantly on TV, because she can do it all. She really can.”
As far as Varner goes, Jouban won’t tell anyone how they should feel. He just believes the UFC and WEC veteran went about it the wrong way with how he took aim at Sanko this past weekend.
Jouban can’t promise he would have reacted in similar fashion, but he appreciates that Sanko was so gracious with her response.
“Obviously, Laura wasn’t one of Jamie Varner’s favorite commentators,” Jouban said. “He found an event that he just got his phone in his hand and said, ‘I’m going to go off on her.’ It was the wrong move. It was a bad move by him.
“She took a very classy route. That was tough to do. Credit to her. I’ll see if I can take the high road when I get that criticism one day.”