The American boxing and wrestling icon will appear in a TV spot for the British bookmaker as part of its ‘Let’s Get Ready to Rumble’ ad campaign, which will be supported by activity across its digital channels.
Betfred says the ad is intended to celebrate the return of fans to stadiums, and to showcase its sponsorship portfolio. Betfred Founder and Chairman Fred Done commented: “It’s superb to have a legend on board in Michael Buffer and I’m delighted we feature our sponsorships. I’m proud my company supports so many sports.”
Produced by Liverpool-based Zut Media, the advert opens on a tuxedo-clad Buffer in a dimly lit, packed stadium who speaks his catchphrase ‘Let’s Get Ready to Rumble’ before the infamous 90s dance track ‘Get Ready for This’ by 2 Unlimited begins to play and a montage of sporting events and cheering fans unfolds.
Zut’s Creative Director Matt Thompson said: “Michael is the world’s biggest and best-known sporting announcer, who better to choose to star in a campaign that celebrates sport and those special spine-tingling moments it creates.”
The campaign will launch this weekend on Sky and BT Sport, with a minute-long version available to watch now on Betfred’s YouTube channel.
Alongside its main TV spot, Betfred has produced a safer gambling advert, which also features Buffer. It has dedicated 20% of all airtime to safer gambling messages.
“What I love about Betfred is that Fred is a sports fan and so passionate. He loves the action just like me,” added Buffer.
“I love sports, the thrill of victory and the agony of defeat is what keeps you going and Betfred are involved in so many sports. That’s why it’s a great relationship.”