Bruce Buffer recently shared insights about his broadcasting career and how he developed his own distinct announcing style. He spoke about his mindset early on and the process of sharpening his skills.
Buffer entered the scene with a rare challenge. His brother, Michael Buffer, was a legend in the announcing world. Michael, known for his ‘Let’s Get Ready to Rumble!’ catchphrase, made his mark in broadcasting. He was a staple at major boxing events and also World Championship Wrestling.
Some might assume that following an already-famous sibling adds pressure. However, for Buffer, that wasn’t the case. Instead, he focused on carving his own path in the industry.
“It wasn’t difficult, it was just an evolutionary process,” Buffer said during an exclusive interview with Heavy Sports. “When I started, I never set out to be what I like to say, Frank Sinatra Jr. I wanted to stand on my own with all respect to the gentleman and his great, legendary father.”
He continued:
“My brother’s a legendary announcer of combat sports for many years and I’m his manager. So, it’s not about riding his coattails, I keep his coattails sewed on.”
Bruce Buffer Set a Deadline for Himself to Succeed
Buffer explained that he gave himself a deadline to establish his own style and succeed. He wanted to succeed or step away. Years later, it’s clear both brothers developed their own unique approaches to announcing.
Buffer began working with the UFC in 1996 and started full-time in 1997. He hit his goal within the timeline he set for himself.
“I told myself that in the first three years I didn’t find my own distinct style, that I wasn’t going to continue,” Buffer told Heavy Sports. “I wanted to make sure that I established myself with my own style, my own identity. And over this evolutionary process, that’s what’s happened.”
He added:
“One person said it one time that Michael’s like a fine glass of Bordeaux and I’m like a shot of Bud Light, let’s put it. So, there’s a bit of a difference.”
Buffer Opens Up About His Energetic Delivery
Buffer also discussed how he developing his energetic delivery when introducing fighters. Fans know him for his signature style. He moves, shouts, and fully commits to the moment.
From his iconic catchphrase, ‘It’s Time!‘ to opening the UFC main cards, Buffer’s style is unmistakable and original. Speaking with Heavy Sports, the legendary UFC announcer credits repetition and consistency for helping him find his rhythm.
“There’s a thing in our industry called reps, and it’s about how many times you do it. And most announcers like to stand still and center, and do their thing, copy my brother’s style,” Buffer said. “I had a tiger in me that needed to come out, I had to move. I’ve been a martial artist since I was 12. I know what it’s like to fight and face an opponent, and put your own blood, sweat and tears on the line.”
He added:
“I wanted to introduce these fighters, male and female, the great warriors they are walking in. And aside from the moment they’re feeling at that point, enhance it and take it to the highest level.”
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This article was originally published on Heavy Sports
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