Press Release – DALLAS, March 21, 2011 Today, HDNet announced a long-term agreement with “The Voice” Michael Schiavello. In times of great change in the mixed martial arts world, Schiavello’s long-term commitment signals a dedication to quality and consistency in HDNet’s unmatched MMA coverage.
In less than two years, Schiavello has established himself as the signature voice of the network’s MMA programming and is regarded as the best play-by-play announcer in the sport. In 2010 he was the only broadcaster nominated for ‘Leading Man’ in the prestigious World MMA Awards, and was named runner-up to color commentator Joe Rogan as the sport’s ‘Best Commentator’ in all major online fan polls.
“Michael is unique and distinctive – the first time I heard him scream at K-1 that ‘Jerome Le Banner has more muscles than a seafood platter,’ I knew he was the perfect fit for HDNet,” said HDNet Chairman Mark Cuban. “Michael’s energy and humor is so great that it doesn’t matter if you are watching the main event at Dynamite on New Year’s Eve or an undercard of a small regional show –he always makes the event something special.”
“I’m here to stay and am thrilled to continue to be a part of the HDNet family,” said Schiavello, a 15-year veteran of commentary who lists the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing and “The Contender Asia” on his extensive resume. “HDNet is the Home of MMA and to be a part of this remarkable team and to cover the very best array of MMA promotions is a constant thrill. I also want to thank the North American audience for their overwhelming response to me over the last 18 months. Keep watching HDNET and I will keep delivering enthusiastic and passionate commentary of each and every event.”
“Michael is an integral part of our commitment to expanding MMA programming on HDNet,” said Andrew Simon, CEO of HDNet Fights. “He is like a professional athlete that has the ability to make everyone around him rise to another level. I am honored to work with one of the best in the business.”
This month you can hear “The Voice” Michael Schiavello in an HDNet doubleheader this Friday, March 25 with “The Voice vs. Wanderlei Silva” at 8:00 p.m. ET and “HDNet Fights: Titan Fighting Championship 17″ at 10:00 p.m. ET.
Source: http://www.themmanews.com/?p=31676
