Chael Sonnen is set to return to our TV screens after signing a broadcasting deal with with ESPN.
Sonnen put pen to paper on what ESPN terms as a “multi-fight deal” which will see the controversial, but charismatic former UFC fighter become a studio analyst offering pre and post-fight insight into the UFC’s upcoming pay-per-view events.
In June of this year Sonnen announced his retirement from MMA and was dropped from his broadcasting role with FOX Sports after he failed two drugs tests which led to a two-year suspension from competing.
Prior to that Sonnen had been on course to become a major star behind the camera for FOX, with UFC president Dana White claiming that he had the world at his feet in terms of his future in broadcasting.
Now ESPN has offered him a second chance at making a success of his post-UFC career and he appears to be embracing it with open arms in his own unique way.
“The industry leader in sports…and ESPN have finally joined forces,” Sonnen said of the announcement. “You’re welcome, wait! These mics hot? The biggest thing to happen to ESPN since…well nothing really comes close. In all seriousness, to ESPN, to Disney, to the Hearst Corporation and to all the viewers…you’re welcome. From one industry leader to another, I look forward to the opportunity of bringing my stories, insight and unique perspective of mixed martial arts to the network.”
Sonnen’s first assignment will be to cover this Saturday night’s UFC 180 event, appearing on Sportscenter and other ESPN related shows over the course of the weekend.
