Veteran color commentator Jimmy Smith signs with UFC

Veteran announcer Jimmy Smith didn’t stay out of the mixed martial arts game long.

The former longtime color commentator has joined the UFC broadcast team, the company announced on Friday. The move comes just two weeks after it was announced that Smith and Bellator had mutually parted ways.

“I am honored to join the world’s premier combat sports brand in 2018,” Smith stated. “It is a privilege to call fights for a living and I can’t wait to join the tremendous UFC broadcast team to call the best fights in the world. To the UFC fans, I am thrilled to join you for this wild ride. See you all very soon!”

In a press release, the UFC stated that Smith, a Los Angeles resident who had a brief pro MMA career before going into commentating, would be a part of UFC broadcasts for FOX and pay-per-view events, as well as taking part in the company’s pre-fight programming.

Additionally, MMA Fighting’s Ariel Helwani has learned that Smith’s first assignment will involve desk work for FS1 during next weekend’s UFC 220 card.

“We’re very excited to have Jimmy Smith join the UFC production team and look forward to working him into a variety of different on-air talent roles,” said UFC vice-president Craig Borsari. “Jimmy’s extensive experience in mixed martial arts gives him a unique voice and great insight to breakdown the intricacies of our sport. We are excited to welcome him to the family.”