Brian Stann – image via UFC.com
UFC middleweight Brian Stann (12-4) is busy preparing for his next fight versus Michal Bisping on September 22, 2012 as part of the main card for UFC 152.
Stann also has another job, working as an analyst for FOX television, breaking down matches and offering insight into some of the big television bouts.
For the former Marine, it’s a job he’s very happy to have and it’s one that has made him an even bigger fan of mixed martial arts.
Stann offers these details in his recent Blog for Yahoo! Sports, check out some of his comments below.
Calling fights as an analyst on FOX isn’t quite as enjoyable as winning fights in the Octagon, but it’s a close second. In fact, when I got offered the role with FOX, I couldn’t have said ‘yes’ quick enough.
I love the job they have given me and I’m extremely grateful for it. Every job I’ve ever had has been a hard-woking, blue collar-esque job and to get the opportunity to earn money doing something you enjoy is truly a blessing. Ultimately, I’m talking about something I am passionate about and talking about men I have the utmost respect for. I like and admire all of the fighters I speak about and, in many cases, have built bonds and friendships with them. So now you want to give me the chance to discuss and praise them on national television? Great.
….
It’s also made me an even bigger fan and follower of my sport. I was always a big fan of mixed martial arts in the first place, of course, but now I’m watching even more film than ever and have my eye on an even greater field of fighters. Normally when you’re preparing for a fight your sole focus will be on the guy you’re about to face, but since I’ve landed this job with FOX my eyes have been opened to every single fighter in my division, and those in all the other divisions as well. I’m constantly analyzing film in between fights now.
….
I’ve always felt comfortable in front of the camera and this is no different for me. I love being in the studio and I love working with professionals, both in front of the camera and behind it, too. I’ve been part of many genuinely nerve-wracking situations in my life and, when you stack them all up, appearing on television to talk about something I love doesn’t rank very high up there. Believe me, if they were asking me to go on live television and break down how an iPad works, you’d probably see me nervous and in a world of trouble, but that’s not what this FOX job entails. I’m talking about fighting and it’s not particularly complicated. Everything I say is set up for me, in the sense that I’m being asked questions about the sport I love and then answering them. Really, it’s a dream job for any fighter and also any fan out there. I consider myself both a fighter and fan of this sport and, therefore, I’m a really happy man right now…