MMA isn’t just about the fighters inside the octagon; it’s also about the behind-the-scenes individuals who work tirelessly to popularize the sport. One such person is UFC reporter Nina Marie Daniele, who joined the organization in 2022. Through her exceptional interviewing and content creation skills, Danielle has managed to uncover previously unknown aspects of fighters, captivating fans and earning her a place alongside UFC veterans like Joe Rogan and Daniel Cormier.

Despite the heartfelt wish of her fans, Danielle has ruled out the possibility of joining the UFC commentary team. In response to a fan’s inquiry during an Instagram “Ask me anything” session, she candidly stated, “Honestly, that’s never gonna happen because, one, I’m not a commentator, and there are so many other people infinitely more qualified than me. So that’s never gonna happen.”

Furthermore, Daniele emphasized that live streaming is not her forte, saying, “I cannot be on a live-stream platform I would be immediately fired.” This admission effectively closes the door on any potential commentary role within the UFC for her in the foreseeable future.

Nina-Marie Daniele didn’t achieve overnight success. Initially aspiring to serve in the army, her life took an unexpected turn towards the modeling business before she entered the UFC interview scene. Subsequently, this path led Daniele to the world’s premier MMA organization. Meanwhile, Joe Rogan, who has provided commentary for many UFC PPVs, is driven by passion rather than profit. In contrast, Jon Anik, who started his career at the renowned sports media outlet ESPN, joined the UFC in 2012.

However, becoming a UFC commentator is no easy feat. It requires not just talent but also a deep-rooted loyalty and passion for the sport, as Dana White has emphasized. Joe Rogan, for instance, was so eager to work with the UFC that he reportedly turned down significant financial offers.

Dana White opens up about Joe Rogan’s love for MMA

Joe Rogan and the UFC are synonyms. Any pay-per-view event feels incomplete without him. Despite his wealth, Rogan’s continued commentary stems from a lifelong love for MMA, not just his UFC connection. Rogan even hosted shows for free with his close friend and UFC CEO, Dana White, during the organization’s financial struggles.

This was revealed in an interview with the “Games with Names” podcast. White said, “I reached out to Rogan. At that time, I think it was on the internet, I reached out to him and we started talking, and I asked if he would like to work for us and be a commentator.”

Dana White further revealed that Joe Rogan worked without pay for the first 12-13 UFC events. White recalled Rogan saying, “He said, ‘F*** yeah, I’ll come there and do it and sit in the best seats in the house,’ and everything else.” Since then, Joe Rogan and Dana White’s friendship has blossomed.

On the other hand, Nina Marie Daniele still has much to learn. Rogan could be a valuable guide and mentor for her if she maintains her passion for covering the UFC. Who knows, one day we might see her alongside the UFC’s commentary GOATs. Do you want to see the reporter in the commentary panel? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.