From humble beginnings calling amateur fights in New York to becoming one of the most recognized voices in global boxing, David Diamante has carved a unique place for himself in the combat sports world. In this post, we’ll explore his journey, style, struggles, and why “David Diamante” is more than just a name — it is a brand and legacy
1. Biography & Early Life
Born on November 8, 1971 in Baltimore, Maryland, David A. Diamante later moved to the East Coast and developed deep ties to the Brooklyn area.
In his formative years, he exhibited a fascination with boxing as well as voice work and public performance. Over time, he gravitated toward ring announcing and broadcasting.
Outside the ring, he is known for his trademark dreadlocks—which he has famously not cut since 1988—and his deep baritone delivery that commands attention in any arena.
2. Breaking Into Announcing
Amateur & Local Fights
David Diamante’s earliest announcing work came from volunteering in local boxing communities. He began with small amateur events, including the New York Golden Gloves, honing his timing and presence in intimate gym settings.
Transition to Professional Platform
As his reputation grew, Diamante began landing bigger gigs. He started announcing televised boxing events across major networks such as HBO, Showtime, ESPN, Fox Sports, DAZN, CBS, NBC, and Sky Sports.
In 2018, a turning point came when he signed an exclusive deal with Matchroom Boxing, giving him global exposure through their partnership with DAZN and Sky.
He has also announced MMA and Muay Thai events, showcasing his versatility beyond the realm of pure boxing.
3. Signature Style & Branding
One of the most recognizable aspects of David Diamante is his announcing style. Here’s what makes it distinct:
Repeating Fighters’ Last Names
When introducing fighters, Diamante repeats their surname — for example, “Anthony JOSHUA… JOSHUA!” This echoes a tradition from earlier announcers and originally helped ensure clarity in arenas with weaker sound systems. Over time, it became his personal trademark.
Catchphrase: “The Fight Starts Now!”
Another branding touch is his signature phrase — “The Fight Starts Now!” — which he uses as the dramatic crescendo before the bout begins. This phrase has become synonymous with his performances.
Tone, Presence & Physical Identity
David Diamante’s deep, resonant voice combined with his tall stature, flowing dreadlocks, and confident stage presence make him instantly memorable. His timing and crowd awareness elevate the anticipation in any fight night.
4. Major Career Milestones
Here are some of the key highlights in the journey of David Diamante:
- NBA PA Announcing: In 2011, Diamante became the official public address announcer for the New Jersey Nets, continuing the role when the franchise relocated to Brooklyn’s Barclays Center.
- World Boxing Super Series: In 2017, he served as lead announcer for the World Boxing Super Series, a high-profile assignment that paved the way for his Matchroom deal.
- Exclusive Matchroom Deal: The 2018 arrangement with Matchroom solidified his place on major world-class boxing cards broadcast across the globe.
- Film & Media Presence:
- Appeared in movies such as Southpaw and Creed III, often playing himself or announcer roles.
- Hosts the Matchroom Radio with David Diamante podcast, featuring interviews and behind-the-scenes boxing stories.
- Honors & Recognition: Inducted into the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame and awarded the BWAA Marvin Kohn Good Guy Award, among other honors.
5. Challenges & Comebacks
No narrative of David Diamante is complete without acknowledging his major adversities and triumphs over physical injury.
The 2021 Motorcycle Accident
On December 20, 2021, Diamante suffered a severe motorcycle crash that fractured his spine in multiple places, broke ribs, and caused significant knee damage.
He underwent a five-hour surgery involving rods, screws, and cadaver bone grafts. Doctors remarked that such injuries often result in paralysis, but fortunately he avoided permanent damage.
Earlier Motorcycle Incidents
This was not his first accident. In 2017, he was struck by an SUV while riding in San Francisco, breaking his right arm in eight places. Despite the injuries, he returned to work sooner than expected.
Recovery Journey
Diamante has shared updates on his rehabilitation: learning to walk again, enduring intense physical therapy, and overcoming constant pain. Fan rumors of full paralysis were incorrect—he continues to work and inspire with his determination to recover.
6. Other Ventures & Media Work
Beyond ring announcing, David Diamante has branched out creatively and entrepreneurially.
Cigar Business & Lounges
He owns Diamante’s Brooklyn Cigar Lounge and launched his own cigar line. The lounge reflects his passion for craftsmanship and serves as a cultural meeting space.
Media, Film & Podcasting
In addition to film appearances, he hosts Matchroom Radio with David Diamante, where he interviews fighters, promoters, and other personalities, giving fans insider access to the boxing world.
Travel & Motorcycling
A passionate motorcyclist and adventurer, Diamante has taken long-distance rides through countries such as India, Pakistan, Vietnam, and Cambodia. His love of exploration mirrors his fearless approach to life and career.
7. Legacy & Influence
Why does David Diamante matter to boxing and sports culture?
- He modernized ring announcing while preserving old-school traditions like repeating fighters’ names.
- His resilience after near-fatal accidents stands as a model of perseverance.
- He extends his influence through media, entrepreneurship, and mentoring new talent.
- His global reach means his voice is recognized by fight fans on nearly every continent.
FAQ
Q1: Who is David Diamante?
David Diamante is an American ring announcer, broadcaster, actor, and entrepreneur, best known as “The Voice of Boxing.”
Q2: Why does David Diamante repeat fighter surnames during announcements?
He repeats surnames as a nod to classic announcing traditions and to enhance clarity in large arenas.
Q3: Did David Diamante become paralyzed after his motorcycle accident?
No. Although his injuries were severe and involved spinal fractures, he avoided paralysis and continues to recover.
Q4: What other work does David Diamante do beyond announcing?
He owns a Brooklyn cigar lounge, runs a cigar line, hosts a popular podcast, and appears in films.
Q5: What is David Diamante’s future outlook in the sport?
Despite past injuries, he remains active in major boxing events and continues to build his brand across media platforms.
Conclusion & Call to Action
David Diamante’s name isn’t just a byline on fight cards — it represents passion, perseverance, and personality. From basement gyms to world championship arenas, his path showcases creativity, resilience, and the power of a distinctive voice.
