This weekend will see the end of BRUCE BUFFER’s amazing UFC pay-per view run.
Buffer, half-brother to Michael the boxing announcer, has called every UFC PPV card in the past 25 years.
Bruce Buffer will be absent from his first UFC pay per view event in 25 Years
A recent Covid diagnosis ended the remarkable streak of the beloved announcer.
UFC President Dana White stated that "Buffer got Covid." He did not want to go on this trip. He is now at home, recovering from Covid.
Joe Martinez, a veteran announcer, will be taking over for "The Voice of the Octagon" this weekend at UFC 267 Abu Dhabi.
Buffer's remarkable run dates back to UFC 11 (1996).
The 64-year old has traveled across the globe to call every numbered event in mixed martial arts' top promotion.
Buffer called a staggering 255 consecutive numbers events before Covid stopped him from traveling to Abu Dhabi this weekend for the show.
Ariel Helwani, a MMA reporter, said that he was grateful for the opportunity to reach out.
"I have just completed my 14-day quarantine. I feel like myself again, and will be ready for Madison Square Garden next week.
"My streak of 24+ years with Cal Ripken is over, but I doubt it will ever be broken." Dana stated that it would take a bullet just to keep me out the Octagon. But Covid saved me.
He clarified that he had done prelims for UFC 8 after some confusion over his initial run.
"UFC 10 live. Then UFC 13 continues non-stop. Covid does affect memory, I guess."
Buffer, a fan favorite, is well into his 60s and doesn't intend to slow down anytime soon.
He told BJ Penn.com last year that he was very humbled about the whole thing.
"I am passionate about passion. Everything I do is driven by passion. That is why I announce my beliefs the way they are.
"When passion fades, which is not mine, then I will likely announce that it is time for me to retire.
"But, I would guess you will be with me at least another ten year. I am in good shape and keep it that way. It's a blessing to be able to do what I love."
