‘Big’ John McCarthy joins Bellator 192 broadcast team, Chael Sonnen signs extension

Bellator 192: “Lima vs. MacDonald” goes down at The Forum in Inglewood, Calif., on Jan. 20, 2018, featuring a main event between Welterweight champion Douglas Lima against Rory “The Red King” MacDonald over the course of a potential five-rou…

Bellator 192: “Lima vs. MacDonald” goes down at The Forum in Inglewood, Calif., on Jan. 20, 2018, featuring a main event between Welterweight champion Douglas Lima against Rory “The Red King” MacDonald over the course of a potential five-round fight.

One thing is for sure, though — we know who won’t be officiating the marquee match.

Famed mixed martial arts (MMA) referee “Big” John McCarthy has just been announced by Bellator MMA to be the newest member of its broadcast team. He will provide color commentary at Bellator 192 on the newly-christened Paramount Network (formerly Spike TV).

Bellator President Scott Coker had this to say about the ‘Big’ news:

“With the addition of ‘Big’ John to our broadcast team, we have put together the premier group of MMA commentators ahead of our Jan. 20 debut on the Paramount Network. With John and Chael (Sonnen) providing analysis, you’re getting two people who have spent more time in the cage than they have spent with a headset on, and that will translate to a positive viewing experience for Bellator fans.”

Obviously, though, Chael Sonnen is a little busy that night, meaning that McCarthy will be joined by either Mike Goldberg or Mauro Ranallo (or both) in the broadcast booth.

Speaking of Sonnen, Bellator also confirmed that he signed an extension (of unspecified length or terms) to remain a part of the broadcast team, indicating that his future may lay in commentary no matter whether he wins or loses against Quinton Jackson later this month.

To check out the latest Bellator MMA-related news and notes be sure to hit up our comprehensive news archive right here.