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Bruce Buffer

Bruce Anthony Buffer is an American mixed martial arts ring announcer best known as the official octagon announcer for the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC).

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Bruce Anthony Buffer is an American mixed martial arts ring announcer best known as the official octagon announcer for the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). Known as the “Veteran Voice of the Octagon,” he is widely identified with his catchphrase “It’s time!” and has worked with the UFC since 1996.

Early life and martial arts background

Bruce Buffer was born on May 21, 1957, in West Tulsa, Oklahoma. He has a background in martial arts, holding a black belt in Tang Soo Do and having previously competed as a kickboxer.

UFC career

Buffer began working with the UFC in 1996. He became the promotion's official octagon announcer and is known for his energetic presentation style.

Catchphrases and public image

Buffer is strongly associated with the phrase “It’s time!”, which he uses before major UFC bouts. He is also known by the nickname “The Veteran Voice of the Octagon.”

Family and business interests

Bruce Buffer is the half-brother of boxing and professional wrestling ring announcer Michael Buffer. He serves as president and CEO of The Buffer Partnership.

Recognition

Buffer has received recognition within combat sports, including induction into the International Sports Hall of Fame in 2024.

Key facts

  • Buffer is the UFC’s official octagon announcer and is introduced on broadcasts as the “Veteran Voice of the Octagon.”
  • He has been associated with the UFC since 1996.
  • His signature catchphrase is “It’s time!”
  • He is the half-brother of Michael Buffer.
  • He holds a black belt in Tang Soo Do.
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Canadian context

Bruce Buffer is relevant to Canadian readers through UFC events broadcast in Canada and the broader popularity of mixed martial arts there.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Bruce Buffer?
Bruce Buffer is an American mixed martial arts ring announcer best known as the UFC’s official octagon announcer.
What is Bruce Buffer famous for saying?
He is famous for saying “It’s time!” before UFC main events.
When did Bruce Buffer start with the UFC?
He has worked with the UFC since 1996.
Is Bruce Buffer related to Michael Buffer?
Yes. Bruce Buffer is Michael Buffer’s half-brother.
What martial arts background does Bruce Buffer have?
He holds a black belt in Tang Soo Do and has also competed as a kickboxer.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bruce_Buffer
    Supports: Birth date, birthplace, UFC role, catchphrase, family relationship, martial arts background, and 2024 Hall of Fame induction
  2. Sporting News — https://www.sportingnews.com/us/mma/news/bruce-buffer-bio-net-worth-ufc-boxing-michael-buffer/e2c4781c64bc94f60353ed93
    Supports: UFC since 1996, catchphrase, relationship to Michael Buffer, and signature presentation style
  3. IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0119353/
    Supports: Birth date and birthplace
  4. Bruce Buffer official website — https://brucebuffer.com/
    Supports: Official octagon announcer role and “Veteran Voice of the Octagon” title