Former UFC Middleweight and Light Heavyweight title contender Chael Sonnen has joined ESPN as a studio and on-site analyst for SportsCenter’s coverage of major UFC pay-per-view events. He made his debut today, in advance of tomorrow’s UFC 180 event from Mexico City. Fans can watch Sonnen throughout the weekend on SportsCenter and various ESPN platforms, where he will provide pre- and post-fight insight and analysis.
Sonnen previously made several guest appearances as an analyst on ESPN’s MMA Live in 2010. He also currently hosts PodcastOne’s “You’re Welcome with Chael Sonnen,” a weekly podcast featuring MMA insight, analysis and interviews.
“Chael is a tremendous analyst and we are excited to have him join ESPN,” said Glenn Jacobs, ESPN senior coordinating producer. “Along with our established UFC analyst Gilbert Melendez, Chael allows us to provide unparalleled UFC coverage. We feel his insights from years in the octagon and his outgoing personality will enhance SportsCenter’s place as a destination for UFC fans.”
Front Row caught up with Sonnen prior to this morning’s debut.
What are you most looking forward to in your new role as a UFC analyst for ESPN?
What I like is attention and ESPN gets it. Everybody in the world who cares about sports watches ESPN. I like when I can break down fights, talk about a sport that I’m passionate, knowledgeable and confident about and I like that people can see it.
Who are some of your favorite fighters to watch?
My favorite fighter is Frankie Edgar. I actually believe that Frankie won the Featherweight world championship against Jose Aldo. After that fight was over, I was completely ready for Bruce Buffer to say, ‘. . . and new Featherweight champion. . .’ I also like the guys who are still hanging around from when I first got started – George St. Pierre, I wouldn’t miss one of his matches. I like watching Anderson Silva fight; Johny Hendricks; and seeing Chris Weidman do well. I like the guys who are doing the new and innovative things and are doing it successfully.
