The debacle of Chael Sonnen as a fighter and analyst has come in full circle. This has left the UFC and Fox Sports 1 in searching for answers and replacements. This has now started with the search for a new co-analyst. Sonnen has been the co-host with Kenny Florian over the past year or so. Now he’s been ostracized for his actions and now his big shoes will have to be filled. Sonnen’s charisma and being so well-spoken helped the network greatly in generating interest. You may not like Sonnen, but nobody can deny his worth as an analyst in trying to educate and entertain viewers.
It’s nearly impossible to fill his role. While there are certainly better fighters that can analyze fights, none of them have the popularity or personality that captivates such a large group of people like Sonnen. Instead here are five certified choices that can replace Sonnen and do an efficient job. Some of them are on the tail end of the their respective careers, while others have already retired. All five of them have a proven track record of being excellent at either commentating fights, being analysts, or consistently putting on entertaining interviews. Those elements can play a essential part in making this adjustment to being an analyst on UFC Tonight and other responsibilities on Fox Sports 1.
1. Brian Stann: The most ideal fit would be for one of the most respected fighters in MMA history to replace Sonnen. After such an unbelievable debacle, it would be wise to bring back all the dignity that Fox can to the analyst booth. Most fighters can be considered as well respected and are role models. None of them come close to Stann. When you realize his background and listen to him speak, you can understand why he’s so beloved.
We’ve also seen him commentate on past UFC events doing an excellent job. He picks up on certain tactics or moments that seem unclear. I’ve noticed that he always thinks like a judge and what could translate into winning a close fight. It won’t be a significant transition for him to go from calling fights to interviewing fighters and commenting on certain situations. Stann is the ultimate pro in everything he chooses to do. This would be the most commendable choice to replace Sonnen.
2. Dominick Cruz: He may not have the most likable personality, but I’m not sure if there is any fighter more intelligent than Cruz. His ability to break down a matchup or certain moment is outstanding. I’ve always considered him as well spoken and isn’t afraid to speak his mind. When I interviewed him last November, he still managed to impress in a four minute span.
Fox may want to go in another direction by bringing in a more prominent name to fill in such big shoes. Cruz hasn’t fought since 2011 and was on the wrong side in many people’s eyes in his feud with Urijah Faber. That doesn’t take away from his ability to educate a new or older audience. His main focus will likely be towards rehab, so he can finally make his big return. It shouldn’t take away from having the opportunity to be hosting UFC Tonight every week.
3. Rashad Evans: After being considered as arrogant and a villain for most of his career, many fans have begun to embrace Evans. On several UFC countdown shows and primetime specials, it has allowed him to be showcased in a different light. People realize how incredible his work ethic is, along with how sharp he is in putting together game plans. He’s also always been considered as one of the best talkers in the company.
Similar to Cruz, they have allowed him to be an analyst on numerous occasions. I’m expecting Evans to be in the running, although his home base is in Florida. Could he be the co-host, while not being in camp? That is up to him, but this list is giving out the best choices. If you want someone that comes close to Sonnen in popularity and being able to talk, look no further in Evans. This choice comes with a more objective opinion as well.
4. Frank Mir: Another fighter that doesn’t live in Los Angeles, but he would still make an excellent replacement. His stock isn’t as high as it was a few years ago, when he was considered a top five heavyweight. That doesn’t take away from Mir’s ability to break down fights, particular situations, and to be outspoken. He has stated publicly that he’s believes in being outspoken and not being fearful of speaking what he believes. Fans will always respect that, which is why they embraced Sonnen so much.
We’ve seen Mir do commentary for WEC and received rave reviews. I don’t see how that wouldn’t translate well into simply being an analyst on Fox. He has always been so well rounded, so he could share experiences on any particular move. It’s hard pressed to see Mir actually being selected, due to how close he is with his family. If they can fly him in for pay-per-view events, that would be a wise decision. He’s simply too wise to not be utilized as an analyst.
5. Michael Bisping: Another fighter who has been on Fox for a few Fight Night events. There aren’t many active fighters left that can talk like Bisping. Every time he speaks, he sounds genuine and well educated. That comes from a fighting and business perspective. Those two attributes can be beneficial in explaining certain situations from either inside or outside the octagon.
Bisping lives in Los Angeles, so it’s very convenient for him to become more of a focal point. Similar to Cruz, he hasn’t always been the most beloved fighter in certain situations. He’s had to work his way back into being more respected as a fighter and person. That comes from how he handles himself to how entertaining he’s become in interviews. Bisping is a true pro and would be an exceptional fit regularly on Fox Sports 1.
Twitter: @Allen_Strk
