Jack Della Maddalena, the UFC champion, recently voiced his dissatisfaction with Daniel Cormier’s role as a commentator during UFC broadcasts, specifically on the Kayo platform. Maddalena suggested that fans should have the option to mute Cormier’s commentary during fights, highlighting his frustration with the current broadcast setup.
On social media, Maddalena stated,
There should be a button to turn off DC commentary during fights.
—Jack Della Maddalena, UFC Champion
Cormier’s commentary has sparked mixed reactions among viewers, with some accusing him of favoritism toward certain fighters and finding his delivery overly dominant. This criticism is not unique to Cormier; fellow commentator Joe Rogan has also been noted for repetitive remarks, while Jon Anik has largely maintained a positive reputation for his professional approach.
Controversial Judging at UFC 319 Draws Daniel Cormier’s Ire
At UFC 319, a highly debated decision following a fight between Karine Silva and Dione Barbosa drew significant attention. Barbosa secured the first round, but Silva fought back strongly in the subsequent rounds, ultimately receiving a unanimous decision from the judges. This verdict upset many fans and commentators alike.
Daniel Cormier openly criticized the judging, emphasizing the need for change. He remarked,
This has to stop happening. These judges can’t keep doing stuff like this time and time again. Especially when these fighters are getting a win or a show bonus.
—Daniel Cormier, UFC Commentator
The ongoing concerns over judging consistency have been a long-standing issue within the sport, with many stakeholders calling for improvements. How UFC President Dana White and his team will address these critiques remains to be seen.
The Role of Commentary in Enhancing UFC Broadcasts
Commentary in sports, much like musical scores in films composed by figures such as Hans Zimmer and A. R. Rahman, plays a crucial role in enriching the viewer experience. The right commentator can add context and excitement to the action, while poor commentary risks distracting the audience.
While the live-action in UFC fights captivates many, the delivery from commentators like Daniel Cormier significantly shapes the overall experience. Feedback from athletes like Jack Della Maddalena underscores the importance of balancing commentary to keep fans engaged without overwhelming them.
As UFC broadcasts continue to evolve, addressing such feedback could lead to enhanced viewing options, possibly including features like muting specific commentators to cater to audience preferences.