Melissa Leong’s career has moved on since she was booted from MasterChef Australia last year.
The 42-year-old now heads into a role outside of her usual brand, as she takes on the commentary role at UFC 305 at the RAC Arena.
The former MasterChef judge will flex her muscles on the broadcast during the MMA (mixed martial arts) event.
‘I’ve never played many sports, but MMA really excites me. Who knows where it will take me next!’ she says Perth now.
Recalling her time as a judge on MasterChef Australia, Melissa says she has no regrets and will watch the new season.
Melissa Leong’s career has moved on since she was fired from MasterChef Australia last year. The 42-year-old now heads into a role outside of her usual brand, as she takes on the commentary role at UFC 305 at the RAC Arena. In the photo
‘I reflect on the last four years as a presenter and judge of MasterChef with joy, with gratitude and with the utmost respect,’ she said.
“I think about it every day as something that was a big part of my life and still is a big part of my life.”
It comes after news that Melissa is set for an international television career according to a new report.
There are ‘whispers’ that it has ‘attracted the attention of other international MasterChef formats, including MasterChef Asia and MasterChef Singapore’. Herald of the sun reported earlier this year.
Recalling her time as a judge on MasterChef Australia, Melissa says she has no regrets and will watch the new season.
The publication went on to claim that Melissa has attracted a growing fan base in the UK, South Africa and New Zealand thanks to MasterChef Australia episodes airing around the world.
The Channel Ten star, who took on a new role as a judge on Dessert Masters, hinted at major career moves in an Instagram post in December.
‘For those who supported me and believed in me; a huge and heartfelt thank you. And those who didn’t… will absolutely hate what comes next!’ she wrote in her caption.
The food critic was booted from MasterChef Australia last year amid rumors of a feud between her and fellow judges Andy Allen and the late Jock Zonfrillo, which she has denied.
He then presented the MasterChef spin-off series Dessert Masters alongside Amaury Guichon, considered the best pastry chef in the world.
‘I reflect on the last four years as host and judge of MasterChef with joy, with gratitude and with the utmost respect,’ she said.
Her excitement was palpable when she recently spoke to WhatsNew2Day Australia about her new job as a presenter on Dessert Masters, describing it as a “dream come true”.
Melissa is also working on her upcoming SBS documentary series The Hospital: In The Deep End.
Additionally, she previously announced that she would be hosting UFC Fight Week on Kayo Sports and Foxtel.
Melissa is also one of the names in the race to replace Better Homes and Gardens star Ed Halmagyi after it was revealed he was leaving the show.
“I’m very focused on all the amazing projects,” she said.