When you hear the electrifying words “It’s time!” before a UFC main event, you’re hearing the unmistakable voice of Bruce Buffer, the man who has turned fight introductions into an art form. With a net worth of $12 million and a per-event salary of around $100,000, Buffer has carved out an unmatched legacy in the world of sports entertainment — blending charisma, showmanship, and business acumen into a career as dynamic as the fighters he introduces.
Early Life: A Fighter Before the Fame
Bruce Anthony Buffer was born on May 21, 1957, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and raised in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. His journey into the combat world began long before he ever stepped into the Octagon. As a teenager, Buffer studied martial arts, earning a green belt in judo and a black belt in Tang Soo Do.
At age 15, his family relocated to Malibu, California, where fate introduced him to Chuck Norris, who became both a friend and mentor. Under Norris’ guidance, Buffer deepened his martial arts training and later pursued kickboxing — until concussions forced him to hang up the gloves. Yet, his passion for combat sports never faded; it simply evolved.
The Voice of the Octagon: Building an Iconic Career
Buffer joined the UFC in 1996, and his rise to fame was as explosive as the bouts he announced. Known as the “Veteran Voice of the Octagon,” he transformed UFC intros into theatrical moments, filled with dramatic pauses, signature gestures, and his iconic “Buffer 180” spin.
His legendary introduction, “Ladies and gentlemen, we… are… live!” followed by the climactic “It’s time!”, has become synonymous with the UFC brand. Fans worldwide associate his booming energy with the start of something extraordinary — a main event about to erupt.
With over two decades in the UFC, Buffer has introduced thousands of fighters and become as recognizable as the athletes themselves. His professionalism and passion helped elevate the UFC from niche entertainment to a global powerhouse.Beyond the Octagon: Entrepreneur, Actor, and Poker Star
Bruce Buffer’s voice isn’t limited to MMA. He’s lent his talent to boxing events, K-1 tournaments, and even the World Series of Beer Pong. His voice can also be heard in video games, including Smite and UFC Undisputed, and in the EDM anthem “It’s Time” by Steve Aoki and Laidback Luke.
A savvy businessman, Buffer co-founded The Buffer Partnership with his half-brother Michael Buffer, the legendary boxing announcer famous for “Let’s get ready to rumble!”. It was Bruce’s idea to trademark that catchphrase — a move that earned Michael hundreds of millions in royalties.
Off-stage, Bruce is a skilled poker player, having competed in the World Series of Poker and hosted ESPN poker specials. He’s also made cameo appearances in hit shows like Friends and Entourage, and movies such as Here Comes the Boom (2012) and Holmes & Watson (2018).
Personal Life and Legacy
Buffer was previously married to Annie Buffer, with whom he shares a son, Dougie Buffer. Despite his fame, he remains grounded, known for his professionalism, humility, and infectious enthusiasm.
With a voice that commands stadiums and a persona that bridges sport and entertainment, Bruce Buffer has become more than an announcer — he’s a brand, an icon, and the heartbeat of UFC nights.
