Bruce Buffer, famously known as “The Voice of the Octagon,” has a net worth of $12 million as of 2025.
His wealth has been built through a unique combination of UFC announcing, television appearances, endorsements, poker, and entrepreneurial ventures—including his lucrative partnership with his half-brother, Michael Buffer, the iconic boxing announcer.
Rise to Fame: How Bruce Buffer Became a UFC Icon
Launching His UFC Career
Bruce Buffer joined the UFC as the official Octagon announcer in 1996 and has since become one of the most recognizable figures in combat sports.
His presence inside the Octagon is electrifying—he doesn’t just announce fights; he sets the tone, builds the hype, and creates a theatrical moment that fans around the world look forward to. His signature phrase—“It’s time!”—has become synonymous with major UFC events.
Also Read: David Faustino Net Worth 2025: Career & Personal Life
Buffer’s style is bold, intense, and performative. He uses dramatic voice inflection, commanding body language, and a signature spin move called the “Buffer 180” to build anticipation before the fighters are introduced. Every UFC main event officially begins when Bruce delivers those two unforgettable words.
Not Just UFC
Although he’s best known for his UFC work, Bruce has expanded far beyond the Octagon. He has announced for:
- International MMA promotions
- K-1 kickboxing events
- The World Series of Beer Pong
- The ADCC Submission Wrestling World Championship
- Boxing matches, such as the 2008 Joel Casamayor vs. Michael Katsidis fight on HBO
Salary & UFC Earnings
Bruce Buffer earns an estimated $100,000 per UFC event. With the UFC holding dozens of events each year—including numbered pay-per-views, Fight Nights, and international cards—Buffer’s income from announcing alone can easily approach or exceed $1 million annually, especially with bonus opportunities and special appearances factored in.
Over his near 30-year career with the UFC, Buffer has easily earned tens of millions when you include base salary, bonuses, licensing deals, guest appearances, and merchandise.
Business Mind & Brand Expansion
Bruce isn’t just a performer—he’s a savvy businessman. He co-founded The Buffer Partnership with his half-brother, Michael Buffer, helping him trademark the now-legendary phrase “Let’s get ready to rumble!”
This catchphrase became one of the most commercially successful trademarks in sports entertainment, earning Michael hundreds of millions over the years through licensing, video games, appearances, and commercials.
Also Read: Evel Knievel Net Worth 2025: Career & Legacy
Bruce, in turn, capitalized on his own phrase “It’s time!” which now appears on merchandise, promotional materials, mobile apps, and even music collaborations.
He’s also lent his voice to video games, including Smite, and has appeared in songs like the UFC-inspired “It’s Time” by DJs Steve Aoki and Laidback Luke.
Poker, TV, Movies & Pop Culture
In addition to sports, Buffer has carved out a name for himself in poker and entertainment:
- Regular appearances on ESPN’s World Series of Poker
- Featured on Poker After Dark
- Delivered “Shuffle up and deal!” at the final table of the 2010 WSOP
- Honored with the “Bruce Buffer Poker Room” at the Luxor Hotel in Las Vegas
Television & Film Highlights
- Friends (Guest Appearance)
- Entourage (HBO)
- Hot Tub Time Machine 2
- Here Comes the Boom
- Holmes & Watson
Buffer has become a pop culture icon in his own right, representing the high-octane spirit of MMA and the global reach of the UFC brand.
Martial Arts Background
Before becoming a household name in sports entertainment, Bruce Buffer was a martial artist. He holds a black belt in Tang Soo Do and a green belt in judo.
During his youth, he trained under martial arts legend Chuck Norris, who introduced him to Tang Soo Do while Buffer was living in Malibu.
He also trained in kickboxing, but after several concussions, his doctors advised him to stop. Still, the discipline and charisma he developed through martial arts translated perfectly into his announcer persona.
Personal Life & Family
Family Ties
Bruce is the half-brother of Michael Buffer, the legendary boxing announcer. The two didn’t meet until adulthood—1989, when they were introduced by their mutual father, Joe Buffer.
Since then, the brothers have worked closely to build a brand empire based on performance, promotion, and passion for sports.
Their grandfather, Johnny Buff, was a bantamweight boxing champion in the 1920s, making their love of combat sports a multigenerational legacy.
Marriage & Divorce
Bruce was previously married to Annie Buffer, but the couple divorced in 2015. Together, they have a son named Dougie Buffer, who stays largely out of the spotlight.
