It is with a heavy heart we have to report that WWE Hall of Famer Howard Finkel has passed at the age of 69. WWE officially announced his passing this morning.
“The Fink” made his debut as a ring announcer for WWWF back in 1977, eventually becoming a full-time announcer in 1979. His iconic voice became a staple for many WWE events throughout the years. He has been involved in storylines featuring Ted DiBiase, Kerry Von Erich, X-Pac, Jeff Jarrett, Chris Jericho and more.
The legendary announcer continued his role well into the 2000s until he changed into a part-time announcing position, working mostly behind-the-scenes.
We would like to offer our condolences to Howard Finkel’s friends and family during this sad time.
Here is WWE’s official statement:
WWE is saddened to learn that Howard Finkel has passed away at age 69.
When considering the greatest ring announcers in the history of sports and sports-entertainment, you’d be hard-pressed to name one better than Howard Finkel. A native of Newark, NJ, “The Fink” — a label that had been attached affectionately to Howard over the years — made his ring announcing debut at Madison Square Garden in 1977 for WWE’s predecessor, WWWF.
By 1979, Finkel was the full-time ring announcer for WWWF, and when WWE was established in 1980, The Fink became the first — and eventually longest-serving — employee. Finkel’s distinctive voice was instantly recognizable, and for more than two decades Superstars such as The Ultimate Warrior, “Stone Cold” Steve Austin and more would have a title victory marked by The Fink’s signature call, “and NNNEEEWWW World Champion!”
Despite being a ring announcer, Finkel didn’t shy away from in-ring competition in certain circumstances. In 1995, he battled his longtime rival Harvey Wippleman in a Tuxedo Match on Raw, and later helped X-Pac shave Jeff Jarrett’s head in a Hair vs. Hair Match at SummerSlam 1998.
In addition to his legendary tenure as a ring announcer, The Fink was an indispensable resource inside the WWE offices for his vast knowledge of sports-entertainment history. Well respected by current Superstars, WWE Legends and Hall of Famers, Finkel’s encyclopedic memory and kindness made him beloved among his colleagues. The Fink was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame on April 4, 2009.
WWE extends its condolences to Finkel’s family, friends and fans.
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