Howard Finkel, a true icon in the wrestling world, passed away on April 16, 2020, at the age of 69, leaving behind a legacy that spans decades. Known as the first employee signed by Titan Sports (later WWE), Finkel’s contributions went beyond just ring announcing. From bell-ringing to early website development, he was a cornerstone in the evolution of professional wrestling. His role was pivotal in the WWF’s formative years, including coining the name “WrestleMania” when Vince McMahon was still contemplating alternatives.
Finkel’s voice was synonymous with the most memorable moments in wrestling history. For fans who grew up in the 80s and 90s, his announcements were more than just updates—they were moments of drama and excitement that defined the match outcomes. Take, for instance, the 1988 Royal Rumble. Finkel’s authoritative call clarified the controversial finishes in both the Ric Rude versus Ricky Steamboat and Hercules versus Ultimate Warrior matches, turning confusion into celebration and ensuring that the crowd’s reaction was amplified by his decisive voice.
Wrestlers themselves felt the gravity of Finkel’s role. Roddy Piper’s beaming smile when Finkel announced his Intercontinental Championship win at Royal Rumble 1992, Hulk Hogan’s dramatic fall to his knees upon hearing Finkel proclaim the Ultimate Warrior as the new WWF Champion at WrestleMania VI, and Randy Savage’s triumphant return as champion at WrestleMania VIII were all moments elevated by Finkel’s distinctive delivery. His announcements carried weight, turning each result into a memorable event.
Finkel’s impact extended beyond his own announcing. He was integral to the evolution of wrestling storytelling, influencing how matches were presented and perceived. His passion for the sport was evident in every announcement he made. In contrast, Michael Buffer, the prominent WCW ring announcer during the Monday Night Wars, while a legendary figure in his own right, never matched Finkel’s deep-rooted connection to wrestling. Buffer, who made his name in boxing, struggled with wrestling-specific nuances, including frequent mistakes and mispronunciations that set him apart from the flawless Finkel.
Howard Finkel’s deep passion for wrestling and his long-term dedication to the WWF/E set him apart from Michael Buffer, who was primarily known for his work in boxing. Finkel’s announcing style, characterized by his iconic “And neeeewww,” became a crucial part of major wrestling moments, adding a distinctive flair and finality to match outcomes. Buffer, while famous for his catchphrase “Let’s get ready to rumble,” brought a grandiose showbiz style to his announcements, but lacked the personal touch and authenticity Finkel infused into wrestling events.
Finkel’s announcing was precise and reliable, consistently delivering accurate results and enhancing the drama of matches. In contrast, Buffer occasionally relied on cue cards, which led to some mispronunciations and inaccuracies, particularly with wrestling-specific terms. Finkel’s versatility and longevity were unmatched. Beyond his role as an announcer, he contributed to ticket sales, website content, and even named key events like WrestleMania. His deep involvement and various roles within the company provided a unique continuity and impact that other announcers, such as Jim Ross or Michael Cole, haven’t matched. While these announcers have also made significant contributions, Finkel’s range and influence in shaping key moments in wrestling history set him apart.
Finkel’s announcements often held emotional weight for wrestlers and fans alike, offering a sense of official closure and validation. His presence added significant impact to the achievements of wrestlers like Roddy Piper and Hulk Hogan, underscoring his role in their careers. Although other announcers have made their mark, none have matched the emotional and historical significance of Finkel’s contributions to professional wrestling.
Despite WWE’s occasional attempts to move away from Finkel—whether through comedic skits or mishandling his rental cars for storylines—his legacy remained strong. Even as the company sought new faces and ideas, Finkel’s role as CM Punk’s ring announcer in 2011 demonstrated that his unique voice and presence were irreplaceable. The emotional reaction of the crowd at Survivor Series 2011, where Finkel made his return, was a testament to his profound impact on wrestling fans and the industry as a whole.
Howard Finkel’s passing marks the end of an era. His unwavering dedication, precise announcing, and heartfelt connection to the sport made him a legend. The void left by his absence is a reminder of his unmatched contributions to professional wrestling. Pour one out for The Fink—his legacy, rich with countless iconic moments, will be remembered and cherished by wrestling fans for generations to come.
