Helix Odhiambo

updated at April 12, 2023 at 8:27 PM

Boxing is a high-octane sport followed by millions of people globally. While the focus is often on the two combatants fighting in the ring, the role of boxing ring announcers is also crucial. They are experts who keep remote audiences updated on what is happening in the ring. So, who are the best boxing ring announcers of all time? Let's find out!

Over the years, the sport has produced exceptionally gifted announcers who are entertaining, informative and enjoyable to listen to when on duty. Some have made millions of fortunes through salaries, bonuses and endorsements.

Top boxing ring announcers

Ring announcers serve as emcees for fighting events. They often work closely with judges and referees to announce their decisions to the fans. Commentators make the event lively by hyping the fighters and the bout.

Qualities of a good commentator

The role of the announcer is unique. It involves generating excitement during the opening and closing of fights. The job requires a high level of creativity to win the audience. Here are some key factors to consider if you want to succeed in your career.

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• Have strong love and passion for the sport
• Attend several events to nurture your announcing and presentation skills
• Doing extensive research about fighters and statistics
• Hone your appearance and announcing style with confidence
• Add signature vocal inflexions for dramatic effect

Below is a list of boxing ring announcers who are highly rated and loved by many fans. Some died, but others are still alive and active.

10. Setrak Ejdaharian

Ejdaharian, known by his stage name, Ed Derian, was one of the most famous ring announcers during his time. He died at 77 but left a lasting legacy in his career. In 2010, Ejdaharian got inducted into the Pennsylvania Boxing Hall of Fame.

9. Howard Cosell

The legendary sportscaster is one of the old boxing ring announcers on our list. He commentated on some of the most significant bouts in history, including the George Foreman and Joe Frazier fight. In 1993, Cosell won the 'All-Time Best Sportscaster' title for his exceptional skills.

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8. Sal Marchiano

Marchiano was a well-travelled sportscaster and one of the best behind the mic during the 1970s and 1980s. His famous phrase "Goodnight, Sweet Prince" made headlines whenever a fighter got knocked out. Marchiano was an all-rounder who also presented in baseball, basketball, and football.

7. Al Bernstein

The award-winning sports commentator entertained millions of spectators with his charming words during the 1980s. He is among the legendary showtime boxing ring announcers of all time. Al Bernstein also worked for ESPN and Great Britain's Channel 5. He joined other legends in the Hall of Fame.

6. Kenny Albert

Albert is the only commentator who does play-by-play for all of the major pro sports leagues in the US and Canada. He is the son of former commentator Marv Albert, who commentated 11 fights on NBC in 2015.

5. Reg Gutteridge

Arguably one of the best boxing ring announcers the UK has produced, Gutteridge formed a great partnership with Jim Watt. Many people consider Reg Gutteridge the most knowledgeable British commentator ever in the sport.

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4. Harold Lederman

Harold Lederman was born in 1940 and has enjoyed a glittering career that began in 1967 after receiving certification. He started his career as a judge and later became famous as a ring announcer. Lederman worked at HBO for many years until 2018, when he stopped appearing in fighting events. In 2016, he got inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame.

3. Jim Lampley

The American has over 30 years of experience in the arena as a commentator. Lampley has often shown great enthusiasm and passion in his commentaries. He is known for his role in the HBO boxing show.

2. Larry Merchant

Larry Merchant is one of the familiar boxing commentator names you will encounter. He is a legendary HBO sports presenter and HBO World Championship commentator. Thanks to his hilarious lines, Merchant has earned his reputation as one of the most outstanding analysts.

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Who is the best ring announcer for boxing?

Michael Buffer is considered the most famous announcer of modern times. He has made over $400 million in the arena, thanks to his legendary catchphrase, "Let's get ready to rumble!"

1. Michael Buffer

The American is one of the longest-serving ESPN boxing ring announcers, having worked at the station for over 35 years. Buffer has introduced many great bouts, including superstars Sugar Ray Leonard, Evander Holyfield, and Matt Hardy, and a YouTube bout between Logan Paul & KSI.

How much does a boxing ring announcer get paid?

The commentators and announcers receive hefty pay depending on experience. The highest-paid is Michael Buffer, who takes home around $1 million annually. He also pockets around $100k per view match and $550k as an annual base salary in UFC. Bruce Buffer also earns up to $1 million annually. Here is a breakdown of the top-earning announcers in boxing.

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Boxing ring announcers are influential figures in the sport. They can make a bout entertaining before the combatants start fighting. Legends like Michael Buffer have also inspired the young generation with their talents.

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