UFC commentator and former MMA star Laura Sanko received her Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt from her longtime coach Paul Kolenda.
The promotion took place during the filming of their regular instructional video series, catching Sanko completely off guard.
“This is crazy. This is crazy,”
Sanko expressed upon receiving the honor, clearly moved by the unexpected recognition.
Sanko, who has been practicing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu since 2006, has developed a reputation as a knowledgeable commentator who frequently showcases her technical understanding during UFC broadcasts. During the video, Kolenda noted her recent commentating work in Mexico City, where she was able to apply her jiu-jitsu expertise.
“She’s been in the game for a long time,” Kolenda explained while surprising her with the promotion. “She’s been very influential in the UFC, she’s competed, she’s fought.”
Reflecting on their training relationship, Sanko mentioned that despite her busy schedule, Kolenda has consistently worked around her availability to continue her jiu-jitsu development.
“Paul works his schedule around mine and he’s been amazing at doing that for years now to do these videos and private sessions with me,”
Sanko said.
Prior to the belt promotion, the pair had been demonstrating a sweep technique from the scarf-hold position (kesa gatame), which Sanko playfully dubbed the
“helicopter chopper”
for the video.
Kolenda specifically acknowledged Sanko‘s dedication over the past three years, noting,
“It’s really the last three years like you’ve really poured yourself into this project that we’re doing right now and to me personally.”
This promotion represents another significant achievement for Sanko, who has already broken barriers as the first female voice in UFC commentary and analysis.
