Megan Olivi is amongst the most recognized sports broadcasters, most notably for her work on mixed martial arts (MMA) and NFL coverage. With a career spanning over ten years, she has earned respect for in-depth interviews, event hosting, and sideline reporting. Megan Olivi started out as a sports desk reporter but quickly went on to sideline report for Fox and cover UFC fighters.
Early Life and Education
Olivi was born in New Jersey on August 29, 1986, and raised in Nazareth, Pennsylvania, with two older siblings.
Even though she wanted to become a gymnast, she did not pursue the sport due to a lack of funds. She then got a college degree in political science and graduated from Seton Hall University.
While at Seton Hall, she interned with Fox News, which made her interested in journalism. After that, she received a Master’s degree in public communication from Fordham University to work in the media.
Entry into MMA Journalism
After finishing her studies in 2010, Olivi got a chance to cover MMA in Las Vegas, Nevada. She moved quickly and began co-hosting the UFC pre-show “Fight Day” and creating digital content for FoxSports.com. Because of her ability to connect with fighters and fans, she was noticed by the industry.
In 2013, she settled in San Diego and started a job as a social media reporter for the San Diego Padres. There, she hosted the weekly Padres POV show. Even though she did well in regular sports, she was very passionate about MMA. Later, she returned to live in Las Vegas and started covering UFC full-time.
UFC and NFL Career
Olivi’s interviews, behind-the-scenes features, and pre-fight analysis made her a prominent member of UFC coverage on Fox Sports 1. She travelled worldwide to give fans a glimpse into the world of mixed martial arts.
In 2018, Olivi began working for Fox Sports as a sideline reporter for the NFL. By 2024, she had done her first full season as an NFL sideline reporter. She balanced the NFL and UFC. Olivi’s transition from the NFL to the UFC highlights her adept professionalism and flexibility.
Personal life and community involvement
Outside of work, Megan Olivi married Joseph Benavidez, a former challenger for the UFC flyweight title. The couple lives in Las Vegas with their dog, Benny.
In November 2024, Olivi joined the Board of Directors for Beat the Streets Wrestling, Inc., a nonprofit organization that empowers youth through wrestling programs. She expressed her excitement about the role, saying,
I feel very privileged to be on the board of such a great organization. Beat the Streets is helping the youth of New York through wrestling.
Recent Achievements and Recognition
In February 2025, Olivi received a special gift from the New York Yankees and shared it on social media, indicating her increasing popularity outside the fight world.
Conclusion
Megan Olivi is a versatile person who is rising in sports broadcasting through passion and resilience. Megan is a special breed of sports broadcaster who has worked her way up through passion and hardship. Olivi’s dedication to producing engaging sports content and mentoring young athletes continues to leave an indelible mark on the sports media landscape.
