The Greatest Voices In Wrestling: Best Wrestling Announcers Of All Time

When it comes to professional wrestling, the action inside the ring is only part of the spectacle. The voices behind the microphone have the power to elevate a match from entertaining to unforgettable. The best wrestling announcers bring passion, storytelling, and charisma into every moment, connecting fans to the emotions unfolding in the squared circle. These are the voices that have defined eras, built superstars, and created memories that last a lifetime.

The role of a wrestling announcer goes far beyond calling the action. They are narrators, historians, and hype men all rolled into one. Their words can make or break a storyline, cement a wrestler's legacy, and even shape the identity of an entire promotion. From the golden age of wrestling to today’s modern era, announcers have been an integral part of the business, bridging the gap between the athletes and the audience.

In this article, we’ll explore the best wrestling announcers of all time, examining their unique contributions to the industry and the moments that made them legends. Whether you're a lifelong wrestling fan or new to the sport, this guide will take you through the voices that have left an indelible mark on professional wrestling. Let’s dive into the world of iconic commentators, unforgettable catchphrases, and unparalleled storytelling!

Table of Contents

1. Who is the Best Wrestling Announcer?
2. Jim Ross: Biography and Personal Details
3. What Makes a Great Wrestling Announcer?
4. Jim Ross: The Voice of Wrestling
5. Gorilla Monsoon and Bobby Heenan: A Legendary Pairing
6. Michael Cole: The Modern-Era Mastermind
7. How Do Commentators Shape Wrestling Storylines?
8. Joey Styles: The ECW Revolutionary
9. Vince McMahon: The Announcer Before the Boss
10. Renee Paquette: Breaking Barriers as a Female Announcer
11. What Role Does Charisma Play in Commentary?
12. JR vs. King: The Chemistry of Iconic Duos
13. Excalibur and AEW’s New-Age Commentary
14. International Announcers: Voices Around the World
15. Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the Best Wrestling Announcer?

The title of "best wrestling announcer" is a fiercely debated topic among wrestling fans. Is it determined by iconic catchphrases, the ability to sell a storyline, or a deep understanding of the in-ring action? While opinions may vary, there are a few announcers whose contributions to professional wrestling are undeniably legendary. Names like Jim Ross, Gorilla Monsoon, and Bobby "The Brain" Heenan often top the list, but what specifically sets them apart?

Wrestling commentary is a unique art form that requires a mix of passion, knowledge, and the ability to adapt to rapidly changing situations. The best wrestling announcers can turn an average match into an emotional rollercoaster, keeping fans invested from bell to bell. So, who deserves the crown? Let’s break it down in the sections to come.

Jim Ross: Biography and Personal Details

No discussion about the best wrestling announcers would be complete without mentioning Jim Ross. Affectionately known as "JR," Ross is considered by many to be the greatest voice in wrestling history. His iconic calls have been a defining feature of WWE and other promotions over the decades. Before diving into his storied career, let’s take a look at his personal details:

From his early days in Mid-South Wrestling to his unforgettable calls during WWE's Attitude Era, JR has been a constant presence in the world of professional wrestling. His emotional delivery, encyclopedic knowledge of the sport, and genuine love for the business have made him a fan favorite for nearly five decades.

What Makes a Great Wrestling Announcer?

Being a great wrestling announcer is no easy feat. It requires a unique combination of skills and qualities that few can master. Here are some of the key factors that make an announcer stand out:

• Passion: An announcer must have genuine enthusiasm for the action in the ring and the wrestlers involved.
• Storytelling Ability: Great announcers can weave a compelling narrative that keeps fans engaged throughout a match.
• Knowledge: Understanding the history, moves, and psychology of wrestling is crucial for providing insightful commentary.
• Charisma: A memorable voice and personality help announcers connect with the audience on a deeper level.
• Adaptability: Wrestling is unpredictable, and announcers must be able to think on their feet and adjust to unexpected developments.

When all these elements come together, the result is commentary that enhances the viewing experience and leaves a lasting impact on fans.

Jim Ross: The Voice of Wrestling

Jim Ross’s career is filled with iconic moments that have defined the history of professional wrestling. From his emotional calls during Stone Cold Steve Austin’s rise to his unforgettable reactions to The Undertaker’s legendary matches, JR's voice is synonymous with some of wrestling's greatest moments.

One of Ross’s most famous calls came during the Hell in a Cell match between Mankind and The Undertaker at King of the Ring 1998. His exclamation of “By God, he’s broken in half!” as Mankind was thrown off the cell remains etched in wrestling history. It’s moments like these that showcase JR’s ability to capture the drama and emotion of wrestling like no one else.

Beyond his commentary, Ross has also contributed to the wrestling business as a talent scout and executive. He played a key role in recruiting some of WWE’s biggest stars, including Brock Lesnar, John Cena, and Randy Orton. His influence on the industry extends far beyond the announce table.

Gorilla Monsoon and Bobby Heenan: A Legendary Pairing

The chemistry between Gorilla Monsoon and Bobby "The Brain" Heenan is often regarded as the gold standard for wrestling commentary duos. Together, they brought a perfect balance of humor, insight, and storytelling to WWE broadcasts in the 1980s and early 1990s.

Monsoon, with his authoritative voice and encyclopedic knowledge of wrestling, served as the straight man to Heenan’s quick wit and comedic timing. Their banter added an extra layer of entertainment to every match they called, making them fan favorites during their time together.

One of their most memorable moments came during the 1992 Royal Rumble, where Heenan’s over-the-top reactions to Ric Flair’s performance added an extra layer of drama to an already incredible match. Their partnership remains a benchmark for what commentary duos can achieve in professional wrestling.

Michael Cole: The Modern-Era Mastermind

Michael Cole has been the voice of WWE for over two decades, navigating the transition from the Attitude Era to the present day. While he initially faced criticism from fans, Cole has evolved into one of the most consistent and reliable announcers in wrestling history.

As the lead commentator for WWE, Cole has called countless WrestleManias, Royal Rumbles, and other major events. His professionalism and ability to adapt to different eras and styles of wrestling have made him a cornerstone of WWE programming. Cole’s partnership with Corey Graves in recent years has also been praised for its chemistry and energy.

One of Cole’s standout moments came during WrestleMania 30, when Daniel Bryan achieved his "Yes Movement" victory. His call of Bryan’s triumph perfectly captured the emotion and significance of the moment, solidifying his place among the best wrestling announcers.

How Do Commentators Shape Wrestling Storylines?

Commentators play a crucial role in shaping wrestling storylines. They act as the audience's guide, explaining the motivations behind a wrestler’s actions, emphasizing the stakes of a match, and adding context to ongoing feuds. In many ways, they are the narrators of the wrestling world.

For example, Jim Ross’s commentary during Stone Cold Steve Austin’s rise to superstardom helped convey the rebellious spirit of the character. Similarly, Bobby Heenan’s relentless criticism of Hulk Hogan during his WCW days added depth to Hogan’s eventual heel turn and the formation of the NWO.

Without skilled commentators, many of wrestling’s most iconic moments would lack the emotional impact that makes them memorable. Their words give meaning to the action, helping fans connect with the characters and stories on a deeper level.

FAQs

Which announcer has called the most WrestleManias?

Michael Cole holds the record for calling the most WrestleManias, having been the lead commentator for WWE’s flagship event for over two decades.

Who was the first female wrestling announcer?

Renee Paquette, formerly known as Renee Young in WWE, broke barriers as one of the first full-time female commentators in wrestling history.

What makes Jim Ross so popular among fans?

Jim Ross’s passion, emotional delivery, and deep knowledge of wrestling have made him a beloved figure among fans. His iconic calls during major moments have cemented his legacy as one of the best wrestling announcers.

How do announcers prepare for a broadcast?

Announcers study the wrestlers, storylines, and match details beforehand. They also work closely with producers and writers to ensure they convey the desired narrative effectively.

What was Gorilla Monsoon’s most famous catchphrase?

Gorilla Monsoon was known for phrases like "This is a happening!" and "Pandaemonium is breaking loose!" that added excitement to his commentary.

Are there any international wrestling announcers worth mentioning?

Yes, announcers like Hugo Savinovich (Spanish commentary) and Mauro Ranallo have made significant contributions to international wrestling broadcasts.

Conclusion

The best wrestling announcers are more than just commentators; they are an essential part of the wrestling experience. From Jim Ross’s legendary calls to the chemistry of Gorilla Monsoon and Bobby Heenan, these voices have brought wrestling’s greatest moments to life. They’ve shaped storylines, elevated superstars, and connected with fans in ways that transcend the sport. As wrestling continues to evolve, the legacy of these iconic announcers will remain a cornerstone of its history.