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Laura Sanko Earns Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt After 19 Years: A Historic Milestone in MMA
- Austin Jones
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
Laura Sanko Earns Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt After 19 Years: A Historic Milestone in MMA
UFC commentator Laura Sanko has officially earned her Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) black belt, marking a significant milestone in her martial arts journey. After 19 years of dedication, hard work, and perseverance, Sanko’s achievement not only highlights her commitment to the sport but also serves as an inspiration to many aspiring fighters, coaches, and commentators in the MMA world.
The Journey to Black Belt
Laura Sanko’s path to a BJJ black belt has been anything but ordinary. The 42-year-old first stepped onto the mat in 2006, training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu as a way to improve her MMA skills. However, over time, Sanko’s passion for BJJ grew, and it became an integral part of her martial arts life. Despite transitioning from an active fighter to a respected broadcaster, her love for BJJ never waned, and she continued her training throughout the years.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Sanko shared her excitement and gratitude for the promotion. “Feels amazing to join the black belt club... a 19-year journey that is just beginning,” she wrote, thanking her coaches, training partners, and supporters along the way.
A Pioneer in MMA Commentary
Laura Sanko made history in 2016 as the first female color commentator in modern UFC history. Her role in the UFC broadcast booth has opened doors for more female voices in MMA commentary, making her an essential figure in the sport. Sanko has since become one of the most respected broadcasters in the game, known for her sharp analysis and insightful commentary.
Before her time in the commentary booth, Sanko was also a professional MMA fighter. In 2013, she won her sole professional fight at Invicta FC 4, securing a second-round rear-naked choke submission victory over Cassie Robb. Sanko retired from active competition soon after, due to pregnancy, but remained closely connected to the sport through coaching and her career in broadcasting.
Widespread Support from the MMA Community
Sanko’s promotion to black belt has not only been a personal triumph but also a celebration of her achievements by the wider MMA community. Many notable figures have publicly congratulated Sanko for her dedication to both BJJ and MMA. UFC interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall, welterweight contender Belal Muhammad, Olympian Kayla Harrison, and former UFC champion Joanna Jedrzejczyk were among those who shared their congratulations on social media.
A Continued Legacy in MMA
At 42 years old, Laura Sanko continues to break barriers and inspire others in the MMA world. As a UFC commentator, she remains a central figure in the sport’s growth, bringing her expertise and passion to each broadcast. Her return to the commentary booth for UFC Kansas City, where she will call the main event between Ian Machado Garry and Carlos Prates, further solidifies her place as a key voice in MMA.
Sanko’s BJJ black belt achievement serves as a testament to her dedication and love for the martial arts. Her journey reminds us that success in MMA, whether as a fighter or a broadcaster, requires more than just physical prowess—it demands resilience, commitment, and a willingness to keep learning and growing.
FIGHT.TV Congratulates Laura Sanko
Laura Sanko’s black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a powerful reminder of the evolving nature of MMA careers. Fighters, commentators, and coaches alike can achieve greatness in the sport in various ways. Sanko’s transition from a professional fighter to a groundbreaking broadcaster and now a BJJ black belt demonstrates that there is no one path to success in the MMA world. As the sport continues to grow, it's essential for individuals within the industry to diversify their skills and continually push the boundaries of what is possible, inspiring the next generation of MMA athletes and professionals.
At FIGHT.TV, we celebrate the stories of those who evolve, innovate, and leave a lasting impact on the world of combat sports. Whether through active competition or behind the mic, the journey of growth in MMA is one that we’ll continue to highlight as the sport evolves. Keep an eye on FIGHT.TV as we cover the latest developments in MMA and share inspiring stories from figures like Laura Sanko who prove that the fight doesn’t end when the bell rings.
