Laura Sanko Biography: Age, Career, Husband, Net Worth, Nationality, Wiki, Parents

Laura Marcusse-Sanko, known as Laura Sanko or by her nickname “Fancy,” is an American UFC color commentator, sports analyst, and former professional mixed martial artist celebrated for her insightful analysis and trailblazing presence in combat sports broadcasting.

A Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt, she competed briefly in Invicta Fighting Championships, earning a 1-0 professional record before retiring due to pregnancy.

Profile

• Full Name: Laura Marcusse-Sanko
• Stage Name: Laura Sanko, or Fancy
• Born: 7, December 1982
• Age: 42 years old
• Birthplace: Chicago, Illinois, USA
• Nationality: American
• Occupation: UFC Commentator, Sports Analyst, Former Mixed Martial Artist
• Height: 1.65 m
• Parents: Mr. Marcusse and Mrs. Marcusse
• Siblings: Steve Marcusse
• Spouse: Nathan Sanko (m. 2012)
• Children: Burke Sanko
• Relationship: Married
• Net Worth: $3 million

Early Life and Education

Laura Marcusse-Sanko was born on December 7, 1982, in Chicago, Illinois, to parents referred to as Mr. Marcusse and Mrs. Marcusse, with no public details available about their names or professions.

She grew up in Kansas City, Missouri, alongside her brother, Steve Marcusse.

Inspired by The Karate Kid at a young age, she developed a passion for martial arts. Laura attended William Jewell College in Missouri, graduating in 2005 with a bachelor’s degree in business administration and entrepreneurial studies.

Of American descent, her religious background is rooted in a conservative Christian upbringing, though she does not publicly emphasize her faith.

Career

Laura Marcusse-Sanko began her career in mixed martial arts after college, training in traditional martial arts from childhood and starting MMA in her mid-20s to cope with personal challenges.

She compiled a 5-1 amateur record, defeating fighters like Amanda Hein and Kyla Potter, before turning professional with a win against Cassie Robb at Invicta FC 4 in January 2013.

Her fighting career was cut short when she discovered she was pregnant, leading to her retirement. Transitioning to media, she debuted as a reporter at Invicta FC 5, conducting interviews with fighters like Marloes Coenen, leveraging her MMA knowledge despite no formal journalism training.

Her broadcasting career flourished with roles as a sideline reporter and analyst for the UFC and ESPN, starting in 2016.

In 2021, she became the first female commentator in the Zuffa/Endeavor era for Dana White’s Contender Series, earning praise for her technical expertise.

Her historic debut as a UFC color commentator in February 2023 at UFC Fight Night: Lewis vs. Spivac marked her as the first woman in the role since Kathy Long at UFC 1 in 1993.

Sanko’s work on The Schmozone podcast and collaborations with fighters like Alex Pereira have boosted her profile, with her YouTube channel hosting interviews and training content.

In July 2025, she joined the Board of Directors for Mixed Martial Arts Group Limited, supporting initiatives like the Warrior Training Program.

Laura Sanko remains a pivotal figure in MMA media, known for her engaging commentary and deep sport knowledge, enhanced by her Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt, earned in April 2025 after 19 years of training.

Her YouTube channel and social media, with over 300,000 Instagram followers, feature fighter interviews, fitness content, and personal moments, resonating with fans.

Despite criticism from figures like Jamie Varner, she has earned respect from peers like Daniel Cormier and Alan Jouban, who called her a “unicorn” for her versatility. Her advocacy for inclusivity and strategic role at MMA.INC underscore her lasting influence in martial arts.

Social Media

• Instagram Handle: @laura_sanko
• Facebook Handle: Laura Sanko
• Twitter Handle: @laura_sanko

Personal Life

Laura Marcusse-Sanko married entrepreneur Nathan Sanko on September 7, 2012, after meeting in 2006.

The couple welcomed their son, Burke Sanko, on December 21, 2013, prompting her retirement from fighting. They reside in Las Vegas, maintaining a private family life.

Laura is passionate about fitness, continuing to train in jiu-jitsu, and enjoys outdoor activities and horseback riding, a lifelong hobby.

A notable 2016 incident where fighter Tonya Evinger kissed her after an Invicta FC fight sparked online controversy, but Laura dismissed it as a humorous prank, emphasizing their friendship. She also has an allergy to dragonfruit and a deep appreciation for animals, particularly horses.

Net Worth

Laura Marcusse-Sanko has an estimated net worth of $3 million.

Her primary income sources include her UFC commentary and analyst roles with ESPN, YouTube ad revenue from her channel, and brand partnerships with companies like Eat to Evolve and Direct Hemp.