How to Announce a Boxing Match
Boxing announcers are licensed officials that play a crucial role -- along with judges, referees, managers, timekeepers and matchmakers -- in running boxing events. The basic job of an announcer is to introduce the boxers and communicate important information to the audience, but the job requires significant responsibility. As an announcer, you must deliver accurate, unbiased information in a clear and exciting manner. You must also be well-versed in boxing protocol and the responsibilities of all the officials.
Write a script for the boxing event. Include the names of the fighters and the names of the officials. Know the correct pronunciation. Write names out phonetically.
Announce the name of each of the officials at the event, including the judges and referee. State the name of the event's promoter, sponsors and name any sanctioning organizations.
Announce each fighter individually. Start with each fighter's first name and then say his nickname, followed by his last name. State their current weight, record and boxing team, plus any titles if applicable. Do not add commentary, such as which fighter you prefer. Avoid remarks that could be construed as bias.
Announce the end of each round, the number of the round and the beginning of the next round. Introduce the ring girls who hold up the numbered signs for each round.
Make any special announcements you are asked to make between rounds. Introduce celebrities, VIPs or special guests. Refrain from adding personal opinions or commentary.
Pick up the scores from the judges at the end of the match, and deliver them to the representative of the boxing administration. Announce the winner to the audience after the scores are added up.
Your licensing is very important. You cannot work as an announcer without a license, or if your license has expired. You may need to renew your license annually. Check with the boxing commission of the state you wish to work in for the licensing rules and fees. The commission can also give you the license application.
Practice announcing before you work an event. Announcing at a match in front of a crowd can be nerve-wracking if you do not prepare. Practice recording yourself through a PA system. Listen to your recordings. Speak slower if your words are unclear.
As a boxing announcer, you are under scrutiny to deliver a performance free of bias and personal feelings. Retired boxing star Floyd Mayweather Jr. accused HBO announcers of unfairly praising white fighters and Hispanic fights while not praising black fighters, according to an article published in the "Seattle Times" in July 2008. You open yourself to criticism and attention when you become a boxing official.
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