The combat sports landscape is perpetually in flux, a dynamic arena where strategic maneuvers unfold not only in the ring or octagon but also in the executive suites and, crucially, behind the broadcast desk. A significant development has emerged from the newly formed TKO Group Holdings, signalling an ambitious push into professional boxing that promises to reshape the industry. The cornerstone of this venture, Zuffa Boxing, has unveiled its formidable broadcast team, with a familiar and highly respected voice from the world of professional wrestling set to lead the charge: Joe Tessitore. Best known to the WWE Universe for his energetic play-by-play commentary on Monday Night Raw, Tessitore’s appointment as the lead announcer for Zuffa Boxing’s inaugural numbered event on January 23rd, 2026, marks a compelling crossover, underscoring the interconnectedness of modern combat sports entertainment and the strategic leveraging of top-tier talent across the TKO empire.
Tessitore’s journey to this pivotal role is a testament to his versatility and enduring presence in sports broadcasting. While many wrestling fans remember his stint as a central figure on the WWE commentary team, particularly during a transformative period for the company, his career roots stretch far deeper and wider, establishing him as a broadcasting titan long before he ever called a suplex or a submission. His tenure in WWE, which began in late 2019, saw him partner with Byron Saxton and Jerry "The King" Lawler, then later with Samoa Joe and Saxton, bringing his distinctive, high-octane style to the flagship show, Monday Night Raw. In the fast-paced, often chaotic world of professional wrestling, a commentator must possess a unique blend of analytical acumen, storytelling prowess, and the ability to react instantaneously to the unfolding drama. Tessitore, with his extensive background in calling live, unpredictable sports, proved adept at navigating the nuanced narratives of WWE, providing the soundtrack to countless memorable moments and championship clashes. He understood the art of elevating a match, not just by describing the physical action, but by imbuing it with emotional weight and character significance, a skill set highly prized in both wrestling and boxing.
Before stepping into the squared circle’s commentary booth, Tessitore had already carved out an illustrious career primarily with ESPN. For decades, he was synonymous with college football, his voice a staple of Saturday afternoons, delivering play-by-play for some of the sport’s most iconic matchups. His passion and ability to convey the gravity of crucial plays made him a fan favorite, capable of translating the raw emotion of athletic competition into compelling television. Beyond the gridiron, Tessitore’s talent for dynamic narration found expression in various other roles, including hosting ABC’s quirky mini-golf competition series, "Holey Moley," and lending his vocal talents to an array of film and television projects. This diverse portfolio highlights a broadcaster who is not merely confined to one genre or sport but possesses a fundamental understanding of how to captivate an audience, whether it’s through the theatricality of wrestling, the tactical brilliance of football, or the brutal honesty of a boxing match. His reputation as a respected and ubiquitous voice in the broadcast industry makes him an ideal choice to anchor a new combat sports venture seeking to establish immediate credibility and a high production standard.
The entry of Zuffa Boxing into the crowded boxing landscape is itself a monumental development, stemming from the formidable TKO Group Holdings. TKO, formed from the merger of WWE and UFC, represents a colossal force in global sports and entertainment, uniting two of the most potent brands in live event programming. Zuffa, of course, is the legendary entity that transformed the Ultimate Fighting Championship from a niche attraction into a global phenomenon. Their track record with the UFC is one of unparalleled success, built on a foundation of aggressive marketing, high-quality production, and a keen eye for talent, both inside the cage and behind the scenes. The decision for TKO, through its Zuffa subsidiary, to venture into boxing signals a profound belief in the sport’s untapped potential and a desire to bring their proven business model and high standards to the "sweet science." This isn’t just another boxing promoter; it’s a statement from a combat sports juggernaut, promising to inject new life, innovative approaches, and substantial financial backing into an industry that often grapples with fragmentation and complex promotional politics.
The inaugural event, Zuffa Boxing 1, slated for January 23rd, 2026, and available exclusively on Paramount+, is more than just a fight card; it’s a declaration of intent. The choice of a "numbered event" immediately aligns it with the prestige and gravitas associated with major UFC pay-per-views, suggesting a commitment to delivering top-tier matchups and a premium viewing experience from the outset. For a new promotion, the broadcast team is arguably as crucial as the fighters themselves. It’s the voice and face of the brand, shaping the narrative, educating the audience, and building excitement. Zuffa Boxing has clearly recognized this, assembling an ensemble that reads like an all-star roster of combat sports and mainstream broadcasting talent, with Tessitore at the very heart of the operation.
Surrounding Tessitore at the commentary desk for Zuffa Boxing 1 will be a trio of highly respected fight analysts, each bringing a distinct perspective and unparalleled expertise. Max Kellerman, a name synonymous with boxing analysis for decades, makes a highly anticipated return to a prominent boxing broadcast role. Kellerman’s sharp wit, encyclopedic knowledge of boxing history, and ability to dissect the tactical nuances of a fight in real-time have made him one of the most revered figures in the sport’s media landscape. His stints with HBO Boxing, ESPN, and various other platforms have solidified his reputation as an incisive, articulate, and often provocative analyst. His presence lends instant credibility and a gravitas that few others can match, ensuring that Zuffa Boxing’s analysis will be both intelligent and engaging.
Joining Kellerman will be two former world champions, providing invaluable insight from the perspective of those who have stood in the crucible of championship competition. Antonio Tarver, a multiple-time light heavyweight world champion and Olympic medalist, brings the voice of a seasoned veteran. Tarver’s storied career, highlighted by his iconic rivalry with Roy Jones Jr., grants him an intimate understanding of the mental and physical demands of elite-level boxing. His analysis is often characterized by a raw honesty and a fighter’s intuition, allowing him to explain complex strategies and predict outcomes based on subtle cues that only a true pugilist would recognize. Similarly, Andre "S.O.G." Ward, an undefeated two-division world champion and Olympic gold medalist, is widely regarded as one of the most cerebral fighters of his generation. Ward’s analytical approach, both inside and outside the ring, is meticulous and profound. He possesses an uncanny ability to break down a fight with clarity and precision, offering viewers insights into the subtle techniques, strategic adjustments, and psychological warfare that define high-stakes boxing. Having two such accomplished champions at the desk elevates the technical discussion to an unparalleled level, providing a masterclass in fight interpretation.
Adding a crucial layer of journalistic depth to the commentary team is Mike Coppinger. As one of the most respected and well-connected boxing journalists in the industry, Coppinger brings an insider’s perspective, often privy to breaking news and behind-the-scenes developments. His role as a fight analyst suggests he’ll offer more than just statistical breakdowns; he’ll provide context, explore potential matchups, and delve into the broader implications of the fights, drawing upon his extensive network and understanding of the sport’s business side. This blend of journalistic insight, tactical analysis from former champions, and Kellerman’s seasoned commentary promises a multifaceted and comprehensive viewing experience.
Beyond the core commentary trio, Zuffa Boxing 1 will feature a full complement of broadcast professionals, each critical to the overall presentation. The iconic voice of Joe Martinez, familiar to millions of UFC fans, will serve as the ring announcer. Martinez’s distinctive delivery, capable of building immense anticipation with every fighter introduction and championship announcement, is a hallmark of major combat sports events. His transition from the Octagon to the boxing ring provides a familiar and exciting link for fans of TKO’s other properties, ensuring that the energy and professionalism associated with UFC events will carry over to Zuffa Boxing.
Molly Querim, a respected figure in sports broadcasting, will host the event. Her experience in moderating discussions, conducting interviews, and guiding the overall narrative of a live broadcast makes her an ideal choice to anchor the show, providing structure and flow to the evening’s proceedings. Complementing Querim’s hosting duties, Heidi Androl will serve as the reporter. Androl, also well-known to UFC audiences for her work as a backstage interviewer and reporter, is adept at capturing the immediate reactions from fighters, trainers, and key figures, bringing a crucial human element to the broadcast. Her ability to navigate the often-intense post-fight environment and deliver compelling interviews will be vital in adding depth and immediacy to the coverage.
The strategic assembly of this broadcast team speaks volumes about Zuffa Boxing’s ambitions. It’s a deliberate effort to blend the best of traditional boxing commentary with the dynamic, modern approach that has characterized Zuffa’s success with the UFC. By bringing together veterans like Kellerman and Tessitore, alongside legendary fighters like Tarver and Ward, and insightful journalists like Coppinger, the promotion is signaling a commitment to a premium product. The inclusion of familiar UFC voices like Martinez and Androl further reinforces the TKO Group Holdings synergy, potentially drawing in existing fans of mixed martial arts who might be curious about Zuffa’s foray into boxing.
For Joe Tessitore, this role represents a significant career milestone, a return to the forefront of a major combat sport after his impactful, though relatively brief, tenure in WWE. While wrestling commentary requires a certain theatricality and adherence to storyline, boxing demands a different kind of intensity – a precise description of punches, defense, footwork, and the unfolding drama of a one-on-one battle with real consequences. Tessitore’s ability to seamlessly transition between these distinct styles, maintaining his signature enthusiasm and professionalism, is a testament to his adaptability and skill. His experience calling high-stakes college football games, where every down can alter the course of a season, has undoubtedly prepared him for the pressure and excitement of calling championship-level boxing.
The stakes for Zuffa Boxing 1 are incredibly high. As the first numbered event, it will set the tone for the entire promotion. The quality of the fights, the production value, and, critically, the performance of the broadcast team, will all contribute to its reception. By entrusting the play-by-play to a talent of Tessitore’s caliber, Zuffa Boxing is making a clear statement: they are serious about delivering an unparalleled viewing experience. The collective expertise and chemistry of this diverse group of broadcasters promise to elevate the sport, providing comprehensive, intelligent, and engaging commentary that caters to both hardcore boxing aficionados and casual viewers.
In an era where sports media is constantly evolving, and the lines between different combat sports often blur, Zuffa Boxing’s launch, spearheaded by a broadcast team of this magnitude, marks a pivotal moment. It’s a bold declaration from TKO Group Holdings that they intend to bring their winning formula to the "sweet science," promising a new chapter for boxing that is as professionally presented and passionately narrated as any other major sport under their expansive umbrella. The wrestling world, having witnessed Tessitore’s impactful contributions to its narrative, will undoubtedly be watching with keen interest as one of its own takes center stage in this exciting new venture, further cementing the notion that true talent transcends the boundaries of any single sport.
