Michael Buffer, the world-renowned boxing and wrestling ring announcer, has become a household name thanks to his iconic catchphrase, "Let's get ready to rumble!" But how did Buffer become one of the most recognizable voices in sports and entertainment, and how did he come up with the phrase that made him famous?
His True Calling
Buffer was born in 1944 in Philadelphia and grew up in New Jersey. He pursued a career as a model and an actor, appearing in commercials and small TV roles. However, it wasn't until the 1980s that he discovered his true calling as a ring announcer.
In 1982, Buffer was hired to announce a boxing match between Larry Holmes and Gerry Cooney in Las Vegas. He was paid just $100 for the gig, but it was the beginning of a new career path for him. From then on, Buffer became a sought-after ring announcer, and his distinctive voice and style made him stand out from the rest.
The Big Break
Buffer's big break came in 1984 when he was hired to announce a match between Roberto Duran and Thomas Hearns. It was during this match that Buffer first used his now-famous catchphrase, "Let's get ready to rumble!" The phrase was inspired by a line from a song by rap group UTFO, which Buffer had heard on the radio.
The catchphrase was an instant hit, and it soon became Buffer's trademark. He went on to trademark the phrase, and it has since been used in countless boxing and wrestling matches, as well as in movies, TV shows, and video games.
Buffer's success as a ring announcer has not only made him a household name but has also made him a wealthy man. He has earned millions of dollars over the years announcing some of the biggest matches in boxing and wrestling history, including several bouts featuring Mike Tyson, Evander Holyfield, and Floyd Mayweather Jr.
More than just a ring announcer
In addition to his work as a ring announcer, Buffer has also made several cameo appearances in movies and TV shows. He has appeared in films such as "Rocky V," "Ready to Rumble," and "Creed," as well as TV shows like "Friends" and "Arrested Development."
Buffer's success as a ring announcer and entertainer has earned him numerous accolades over the years. He has been inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame and the World Boxing Hall of Fame, and he has received the "Lifetime Achievement Award" from the British Boxing Board of Control.
In conclusion, Michael Buffer's journey from a model and actor to a world-renowned ring announcer is a testament to the power of following your passion. His catchphrase, "Let's get ready to rumble!" has become a cultural phenomenon and has made him a household name. With his distinctive voice and style, Buffer has become an icon in the world of sports and entertainment, and his legacy will continue to live on for years to come.
Let's Get Ready To Rumble Energy
Michael has now turned his hand to the energy drink and supplement business, lending his iconic catchphrase to an exciting new brand - Let's Get Ready To Rumble. A match made in heaven. He initially launched with his original flavour classic energy drink, followed quickly by a sugar free offering. He then unveiled the first of his protein bar range - Heavyweight Chocolate Caramel Crunch. His new brand continues to go from strength to strength with more products being released in the near future.