David Diamante is one of the most recognizable voices in professional boxing and combat sports. Known for his booming baritone and signature dreadlocks, he has become a global icon in sports announcing. His trademark phrase “The fight starts now!” has echoed through some of the biggest arenas in the world. As of 2025, Diamante continues to be the official ring announcer for Matchroom Boxing and a respected figure in the entertainment industry. This article delves into his early life, career journey, personal story, and estimated net worth in 2025.
Early Life and Background
David Diamante was born on November 8, 1971, in Baltimore, Maryland, USA. Growing up, he showed a passion for both music and sports. His deep voice and charismatic personality made him a natural entertainer from a young age. As a teenager, he was drawn to the energy of boxing and basketball, two sports that later played major roles in shaping his professional identity.
Diamante’s early influences came from both urban street culture and classical entertainment. He was heavily inspired by radio DJs, musicians, and sports announcers who had a commanding stage presence. This blend of musical rhythm and showmanship would later become the hallmark of his announcing style.
Age and Personal Traits
As of 2025, David Diamante is 54 years old. Despite his age, he maintains an energetic and youthful appearance, supported by a healthy lifestyle and his signature dreadlocks, which he has been growing for over three decades. His unique look and deep, resonant voice make him instantly recognizable among boxing fans worldwide.
Diamante is often described as charismatic, professional, and authentic qualities that have made him a favorite among promoters, athletes, and fans. Beyond his career, he’s known for his love of motorcycles, classic cigars, and jazz music, reflecting a well-rounded, artistic personality
Career Beginnings
David Diamante’s path to stardom was far from conventional. He began his career in New York City, working as a DJ and club host in the early 1990s. His ability to engage crowds and command attention with his voice quickly gained notice. During this time, he also became deeply immersed in the local boxing scene, attending fights and offering to volunteer as an announcer.
His early gigs included small boxing events, martial arts tournaments, and local promotions. What set Diamante apart was his flair for presentation and his respect for the sport’s traditions. He always made sure to pronounce fighters’ names correctly and to bring genuine excitement to every bout, no matter the level.
Rise to Prominence in Boxing
Diamante’s breakthrough came when he began working with Matchroom Boxing, one of the world’s leading boxing promotion companies, headed by Eddie Hearn. His professionalism, voice quality, and memorable catchphrases caught the attention of promoters and broadcasters alike.
He eventually became the official ring announcer for Matchroom Boxing USA, appearing on DAZN, Sky Sports, and other major sports networks. Over the years, he has introduced world champions and legendary fighters such as Anthony Joshua, Canelo Álvarez, Katie Taylor, Gennadiy Golovkin, and Dmitry Bivol.
Diamante’s announcing style is distinct for his dramatic name repetition technique he often repeats the fighter’s surname to build suspense and excitement among fans. This signature move, combined with his deep respect for fighters, has made him a beloved figure in the sport.
Other Ventures and Achievements
Beyond boxing, David Diamante’s voice has been featured in mixed martial arts (MMA), basketball, and corporate events. He’s hosted major fight nights across the United States, United Kingdom, Saudi Arabia, and the Middle East, establishing himself as a truly global figure.
Some highlights of his career include:
- Serving as the Brooklyn Nets’ official announcer during their early years in the NBA.
- Being named one of the “Best Voices in Sports” by multiple media outlets.
- Making appearances in films, documentaries, and TV specials related to boxing and sports culture.
David Diamante’s Signature Style
What makes David Diamante unique isn’t just his voice it’s the ritual and energy he brings to each event. He is known for:
- Repetition of fighter names to heighten anticipation.
- Perfect pronunciation of names across various languages.
- Professional stage presence, wearing stylish suits and maintaining a commanding posture.
- Passion for authenticity, always taking time to learn about each fighter’s story before the announcement.
His announcing is more than a job it’s a performance art, and fans often credit him with adding drama and prestige to every match.
Life-Changing Motorcycle Accident
In December 2021, Diamante faced one of the toughest challenges of his life when he was involved in a serious motorcycle accident in Brooklyn, New York. The crash left him with multiple spinal fractures and severe injuries to his ribs and legs. Many feared he might never walk again.
However, in true fighter spirit, David embarked on an intense rehabilitation journey. Through dedication, physiotherapy, and mental resilience, he made a remarkable recovery and returned to the ring within months. His comeback became an inspirational story in the sports community, symbolizing strength and perseverance.
Personal Life
Although David Diamante keeps his personal life relatively private, he’s known for his love of classic culture and simple pleasures. He owns a cigar lounge in Brooklyn, called “Diamante’s Brooklyn Cigar Lounge”, which serves as both a social hub and a reflection of his personality stylish, timeless, and welcoming.
Diamante is also passionate about travel, music, and motorcycles. He’s often seen sharing moments from his journeys around the world, from fight venues to cultural landmarks. Despite his fame, he remains grounded and appreciative of his fans, often expressing gratitude for their support on social media.
Awards and Recognition
David Diamante’s contributions to sports entertainment have earned him numerous accolades and recognition, including:
- Ring Announcer of the Year (multiple times) from boxing media outlets.
- Honorary awards from boxing organizations for his dedication to the sport.
- Features in documentaries and podcasts celebrating the voices behind boxing.
His legacy continues to grow, as he represents both the tradition and modern flair of sports announcing.
David Diamante’s Net Worth in 2025
As of 2025, David Diamante’s net worth is estimated to be between $3 million and $5 million USD. His income sources include:
- Professional Announcing Fees – As a world-renowned boxing announcer, Diamante earns significant fees per event, especially for high-profile international fights.
- Brand Partnerships and Sponsorships – He collaborates with brands in the luxury, lifestyle, and sports sectors.
- Television and Media Appearances – His presence on DAZN, Sky Sports, and documentaries contributes to his earnings.
- Business Ventures – His Brooklyn Cigar Lounge adds another revenue stream.
- Public Speaking and Hosting – Diamante is occasionally invited to corporate events and motivational talks.
Given his global reputation and consistent work with Matchroom Boxing, his net worth has grown steadily over the years. With his expanding global presence, it’s expected that his financial standing will continue to rise in the coming years.
Legacy and Impact
David Diamante’s journey from a local DJ to one of the most respected ring announcers in the world is a story of passion, dedication, and resilience. His recovery from near tragedy, his contribution to sports entertainment, and his ability to connect with audiences have cemented his legacy as more than just a voice he’s an embodiment of boxing culture.
For millions of fans, his announcements mark the beginning of something special the adrenaline, the tension, and the moment before history is made. His deep appreciation for fighters and fans alike reflects his authenticity and love for the sport.
Fun Facts About David Diamante
- He has not cut his dreadlocks since the 1990s they are part of his identity and personal philosophy.
- His favorite phrase is “The fight starts now!”, which has become his signature.
- He once said that announcing is like music, where rhythm, timing, and emotion create the perfect performance.
- Despite his global fame, he still considers Brooklyn, New York his home base.
- He is a strong advocate for mental and physical resilience, often sharing motivational thoughts about recovery and discipline.
Conclusion
David Diamante’s life is a powerful reminder that passion, persistence, and authenticity can turn a voice into a legacy. From humble beginnings to the world’s biggest arenas, his story continues to inspire fans across the globe. As of 2025, he remains a pillar of boxing culture, an ambassador of sportsmanship, and a symbol of resilience.
