The Big, Bad Bruce Buffer Will Have To Sit Out His First Fight In Over Two Decades Due To COVID

The golden voice of mixed martial arts is breaking a long-time streak this weekend.

After covering UFC pay-per-view events for 24 years without missing a bout, legendary announcer Bruce Buffer will have to skip Saturday's UFC 267 due to a case of COVID.

Buffer, who has built a career off his legendary in-ring announcements, will be replaced by the mighty Joe Martinez on fight night.

UFC President Dana White made the announcement during press interviews on Thursday.

Bruce is the younger brother of famed boxing announcer Michael Buffer. He will make his return at UFC 268 in New York.

The 64-year-old UFC staple is said to not be experiencing serious side effects from the illness, but was excluded from travel plans to prevent any spread among fighters.

Saturday's main card will feature the light heavyweight title bout between Jan Blachowicz and Glover Teixeira. UFC 278 Prelims are scheduled to start on Saturday at 10:30 a.m. (ET), with the main card slated for 2:30 p.m. (ET).

Buffer's absence may not be Dana White's most pressing issue in Abu Dhabi. The UFC president is expected to meet with the notorious Hasbulla during his stay in the AE — settling a long-time plea by the petite pugilist to get a fighting contract out of White.

May God walk with Dana.

Follow along on Twitter: @AlejandroAveela