Laura Sanko Celebrates Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with Community Support

Kansas City, MO – Laura Sanko, a prominent figure in mixed martial arts commentary, has earned her black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, an achievement celebrated widely in the MMA community. This milestone follows her extensive 19-year journey in martial arts, which Sanko describes as ‘just the beginning.’

Among the first to congratulate Sanko was Tom Aspinall, the UFC interim heavyweight champion. Welterweight champion Belal Muhammad also expressed his support, recognizing the significance of Sanko’s accomplishment. Sanko made history in January 2023 as the first female color commentator in modern UFC history, bringing her expertise to a broadcast during Derrick Lewis’ Fight Night matchup against Serghei Spivac.

“It took a lot of hard work to join the black belt club,” Sanko shared on Instagram. “So many people have played a role in getting me here. THANK YOU,” she emphasized, acknowledging the coaches and training partners who supported her throughout her journey.

Reactions to Sanko’s black belt achievement have poured in from across the sport. Kayla Harrison, a UFC women’s bantamweight title challenger and Olympian, remarked, “A black belt is a white belt who never quit.” Other UFC personalities, including Jon Anik and former champion Joanna Jedrzejczyk, joined in the celebrations on social media.

Despite some criticism in the past, Sanko remains focused on her career. Last March, ex-UFC fighter Jamie Varner criticized her commentary skills, but Sanko respectfully defended her experience in the sport, highlighting her journey in martial arts since 2006.

Sanko is set to return to the commentary booth this weekend in Missouri, where she will be calling the welterweight fight between Ireland’s John Kavanagh and Carlos Prates. Her contributions continue to inspire many within the MMA community.