ESPN anchor and 'MMA Live' host Jon Anik signs deal with UFC

Scoot over Joe Rogan and Mike Goldberg, there's a new commentator in town.

ESPN anchor and "MMA Live" host, Jon Anik, has been signed on to be a part of the UFC's broadcast team, among other duties. According to a report from MMA Weekly, he's been signed to a three year deal and will begin work as soon as the UFC on FOX 1 event on Nov. 12, though to what capacity is unclear.

UFC president Dana White kicked off today's UFC 137 press conference (click here to watch) by making the huge announcement:

"I have been out there trying to lock up certain talent as we move on in this deal with FOX. He's one of the guys I've been aggressively going after, came from ESPN, I have alot of respect for him and what he has done and we finally got this deal done. Jon Anik will start with the UFC in January when we launch on FOX."

Anik was on hand and elated to say the least:

"Good to be here, so appreciative for this opportunity. Thanks to Lorenzo and Frank Fertitta and UFC President Dana white off course, Craig Borsari who was instrumental in getting this deal done. I believe the UFC's as strong a brand as there is in professional sports, but what really drew me to this organization was the people behind it, I think as strong as this organization is, it's the people behind it. It's a well-oiled machine; I just hope I don't get in the way. My first day is Saturday; I'll be there at UFC 137. This is where I wanted to be. If I was leaving ESPN, it was one destination it's the Ultimate Fighting Championship. It's a dream come true."

Dana White revealed that one of Anik's roles will be to act as play-by-play man for events on FX, as well as the live version of The Ultimate Fighter (TUF) season 15.

The bossman did warn Anik that he will be a very busy man:

"With our schedule over the next couple of years and the things we have going on, Jon's going to be very busy here with the UFC. He's gonna wish he was back with ESPN."

No word yet on who will replace Anik over at ESPN.

What do you think about this new addition to the UFC broadcast team?