A ring announcer`s job might seem straightforward initially. In theory, someone with a powerful voice could easily don formal wear and introduce numerous fighters. However, beneath the apparent simplicity lies significant pressure and detailed preparation, presenting a formidable challenge for many.
Accuracy is paramount; in the current digital era, a simple mispronunciation can instantly label an announcer as incompetent or worse. Yet, for a select few, public speaking and amplifying the event`s energy by projecting their voice is thrilling, offering a unique rush unmatched by other experiences.
Curiously, a larger-than-life persona, often linked with this profession, isn`t strictly necessary. Kody Mommaerts, better known as ‘Big Mo’, discovered his enthusiasm for hosting and public address through a quite different path.
“I was quite socially awkward growing up,” he shared with Boxing News. “My size likely contributed; I was just a tall, thin youngster.”
“My father, a former trial lawyer, taught me extensively about presentation. I felt more at ease with adults than children, accompanying my dad to meetings and observing their communication style. Naturally, this approach wasn`t always ideal for interacting with other kids.”
“However, as I began presenting more frequently in my early twenties, I realised the skills and efforts from my childhood proved invaluable for speaking and presenting as an adult. My dad instilled in me from an early age the importance of avoiding ‘uh’ or ‘um’. So, when public speaking, I rely on a ‘tool belt’ – much like Batman`s – filled with alternative phrases for momentary pauses.”
This dedication to detail and careful preparation has rapidly advanced Mommaerts` career, positioning him to potentially challenge established figures like Michael Buffer and Jimmy Lennon Jr.
Notably, his opportunity with Boxxer, his current employer, stemmed from announcing an exhibition match between strongmen Eddie Hall and Hafthor Bjornsson in 2022. Following this, Mommaerts received the awaited call and, confident in his skills, pledged a perfect delivery for his initial Sky Sports broadcast.
He recounted, “[Boxxer] reached out after the Hall-Bjornsson event, and I proposed, `Just give me a trial. No need to pay me, let me just demonstrate my capabilities.` That event turned out to be Chris Billam-Smith vs Isaac Chamberlain. I believe it went exceptionally well; the Bournemouth audience perfectly complemented my announcing style.”
Although his passion for presenting came first, ‘Big Mo’ cultivated an interest in combat sports after dabbling in martial arts during college. His ongoing interactions with fighters have deepened this connection, leading the 29-year-old to firmly believe his profession is unique.
“I regard combat sports – including boxing, MMA, and kickboxing – as the finest category of sports globally,” Mommaerts stated. “The mindset of a fighter is distinct from athletes in other sports, having participated in many myself.”
“In typical sports, you focus on winning or achieving speed records. This shifts when the sport is fundamentally about inflicting damage on an opponent. Certainly, there are rules like other sports, but the underlying goal remains causing injury to your adversary.”
“Upon delving into combat sports – understanding the psychology, preparation, and all contributing factors – I find nothing else comparable.”
Although his career is still relatively young, Mommaerts has already secured roles in several significant events. Last November, he announced Netflix`s inaugural live boxing event, headlined by Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson, and hopes to continue working with the streaming giant.
“I participated in the first all-women`s card featuring Claressa Shields vs. Savannah Marshall,” he noted. “I was subsequently involved in the second all-women`s event at the Royal Albert Hall, featuring Lauren Price and Natasha Jonas. I`m hopeful to be part of the third, with Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano on July 11.”
“Performing that particular event at Madison Square Garden would undeniably be a dream realised.”
