After Throat Cancer Last Year, Michael Buffer Keeps His Unmistakable Voice
By JOHN BERMAN and MICHAEL MILBERGERNov. 9, 2009
When Hollywood producers cast a ring announcer in a boxing scene, they know there's only one man who can properly play the role: Michael Buffer.
Michael Buffer's "Let's get ready to rumble" can rouse crowds of thousands.
Cast in more than 20 movies and television shows, from "Rocky" to "South Park" to the new movie "2012," Buffer, 65, gives the scene an authenticity viewers demand.
His booming voice, dashing good looks and natural charisma demand attention, while his catchphrase 'Let's Get Ready to Rumble,' makes him unforgettable.
Those five words -- 'Let's Get Ready to Rumble' -- have made Buffer the undisputed king of boxing ring announcers and a hugely successful entrepreneur.
By trademarking his catchphrase, Buffer has generated over $400 million in revenue, selling the rights to music, video games, merchandise and while making personal appearances.
His business venture is so successful, Buffer doesn't even have to say his catchphrase to make money.
He makes more from the trademark than he does announcing in the ring.
His catchphrase has brought Buffer more than just fame and fortune.
It's also brought him family.
Raised by foster parents in Philadelphia, Buffer was re-united with his biological father and half-brothers in 1989 after his father saw him announcing on television.
Buffer's half-brother Bruce is now his business partner and the announcer for the Ultimate Fight Championship (UFC), a mixed martial arts series.
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