While we all attend or watch sporting events live on television for the action, the announcers play a significant role in the event. Sports entertainment announcers have become a key element to any major sporting event, especially those being screened live on television around the world. The greatest sports announcers have made an extensive career for themselves and below, you will find some of the most iconic sports entertainment announcers in history.
Michael Buffer
Michael Buffer is one of two brothers who have enjoyed a tremendous career as a sports entertainment announcer. Having started his career as a sports announcer in 1982, Michael rose to fame thanks to his regular slot as the ring announcer for Bob Arum’s Top Rank Boxing on ESPN. Michael has announced many of the biggest boxing matches in history and his catchphrase “Let’s Get Ready to Rumble,” has become well known worldwide. Away from the boxing ring, Buffer has announced at NBA Finals, the MLB World Series, and major WWE events.
Howard Finkel
Known by many as the voice of WWE, the late Howard Finkel is one of the greatest sports entertainment announcers of all time. Finkel was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2009 having first started his career as a WWE announcer in 1977. In fact, Finkel was the first person to be officially employed by the WWE in 1985 and is credited with inventing the term WrestleMania, which is still used today for the WWE’s biggest event of the year. The popularity of the WWE and it’s spread to other pop culture and entertainment industries such as video games, action figures and even online slots such as WWE Legends found on platforms like lucky 7 online, it cannot be separated from Finkel’s crucial involvement. Finkel sadly passed away on April 16, 2020, at the age of 69 but will always be remembered by wrestling fans as one of the most iconic sports entertainment announcers.
John Madden
There is no doubt John Madden means more to the NFL than an announcer but his skills behind the microphone were second to none. Having joined CBS as a colour commentator in 1979 Madden started to work with Pat Summerall and the pair went on to call eight Super Bowls together. Madden became known for his enthusiasm behind the microphone and his flamboyant style attracted millions of viewers. The fact Madden won fourteen Sports Emmy Awards for Outstanding Sports Event Analyst tells you everything you need to know about this icon of sports entertainment, and he led the way in terms of NFL video games.
Bruce Buffer
Michael may be the more popular of the Buffer brothers, but Bruce is currently the more active. Bruce started his sports entertainment announcing career with the UFC in 1996 and is the voice of most UFC main events. Following in the footsteps of his brother, Bruce introduced his own catchphrase, “It’s Time!” and you when you hear those words, you know the action is about to begin. Known as the ‘Veteran voice of the Octagon,’ Bruce has appeared in television shows and is a professional poker player.
Harry Caray
Harry Caray is considered one of the most beloved and iconic sports announcers in the history of baseball and is best known for his time as the play-by-play announcer for the Chicago Cubs. Carays began his career in broadcasting in the 1940s and spent several decades working for various teams, including the St. Louis Cardinals and the Oakland Athletics. However, it was his time with the Chicago Cubs from 1982 until his passing in 1998 that truly solidified his status as a sports entertainment legend. His love for the game and his ability to connect with the audience made every Cubs game an event to remember. In addition to his work in baseball, Caray also had a successful career as a broadcaster for the Chicago White Sox and the St. Louis Cardinals.
Dick Vitale
Dick Vitale, affectionately known as “Dickie V,” is a legendary sports announcer and commentator in the world of basketball. His broadcasting career spans over four decades, where he began as a coach, and transitioned to the broadcast booth that allowed him to truly shine. He is known for his signature catchphrases such as “Awesome, Baby!” and “Diaper Dandy,” and has a great ability to analyse the game, provide insightful commentary, and entertain the audience. Vitale’s love for the sport and his genuine excitement for every game he calls have made him an integral part of the college basketball experience.
Conclusion
The world of sports entertainment has been shaped and enhanced by the iconic announcers who have graced its stages. From the booming voice of Michael Buffer to the legendary presence of Howard Finkel, these announcers have not only provided play-by-play commentary but have also added a layer of entertainment, becoming an integral part of the sports experience. Their voices will continue to resonate, reminding us of the incredible moments and emotions that sports bring to our lives.