Jon Anik, one of the UFC’s play-by-play man, has been tagging his broadcast booth partner, Brian Stann, for the longest time as “The Greatest Living American”. But it looks like Brian’s era is slowly coming to an end because of England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady.
In a recent interview on MMAjunkie, Anik narrated the events that lead to this change of heart.
“My twin brother actually told me, after watching the prelims, that John Anderson on SportsCenter on ESPN refers to Tom Brady as ‘The Greatest Living American. Now, I knew half the city of Boston referred to Tom Brady as ‘The Greatest Living American,’ but I didn’t know John Anderson did it on the air. So, I regret to inform your listeners – I’m not sure if this qualifies as breaking news – I don’t know that I will be able to be able to refer to Brian Stann as ‘The Greatest Living American’ going forward because John Anderson sort of has that. And far be it from me to step on his toes,” Anik said.
As for Tom Brady’s case, the title he earned is purely sports overstatement- a nickname he got because of four Super Bowl titles, three-time Super Bowl MVP awards, two-time MVP league and ten trips to the Pro Bowl.
Brian Stann, on the other hand, got his title through Anik’s admiration for his personal achievements.
Stann became a Captain while he was serving in the United States Marine Corps for five years. Aside from that, he was able to earn a Silver Star for his actions during Operation Matador.
Here’s what Stann said on his Silver Star citation:
“At one point, the enemy massed on his platoon and fired over 30 rocket propelled grenades, machine guns, detonated two improvised explosive devices and attacked the unit with three suicide vehicle borne improvised explosive devices. Second Lieutenant Stann personally directed two casualty evacuations, three vehicle recovery operations and multiple close air support missions under enemy small arms, machinegun and mortar fire in his 360-degree fight. Inspired by his leadership and endurance, Second Lieutenant Stann’s platoon held the battle position on the Euphrates River for six days protecting the Task Force flank and isolating foreign fighters and insurgents north of the river.”
Stann left active duty last 2008 around May. As for his career in MMA, Stann was able to get a 6-0 record and a WEC light heavyweight championship. Stann went against Doug Marshall last WEC 33 and won by knockout.
Anik emphasized that he will not let go of the designation even though he may not be using the nickname in the future.
“Brian Stann is now 35 and has a great chance to be the president of our great country. So I will stick with Brian Stann, even as a Bostonian, and say that he is ‘The Greatest Living American’ over Tom Brady and anyone else.”