Most MMA fans had never heard the name Bruce Connal prior to Saturday night, but his impact on the UFC was undeniable. Connal, 61, died suddenly this past Thursday, leaving behind his wife Karen and children Tyler, Carly and Trevor. He also left behind a team of on-air talent and behind-the-scenes production staff who were used to his direction since he first began producing the UFC’s broadcasts back in 1998 at UFC 17 – a run that included more than 300 live events. Connal’s impact extended beyond the UFC. A former producer for ESPN, as well, Connal oversaw a number of live sporting broadcasts, including baseball, basketball, football and hockey. The UFC honored Connal at the start of Saturday’s UFC 222 pay-per-view broadcast, with a tape of his voice counting the team to air.
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