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The long-time running sitcomFriendshad featured a lot of celebrity appearances, but one particular actor may have been forgotten by fans: Jon Favreau.The Mandaloriandirector starred as Pete Becker in Season 3, a genius millionaire and the love interest of Courteney Cox’s Monica Geller.
Even with his fortune, Becker decided to explore the world of mixed martial arts. He trained a lot and dreamed of joining the Ultimate Fighting Championship. Interestingly, the sport was not so popular back in the ‘90s, but because ofFriends’ fame, it received mainstream attention.
Season 3 Episode 24 entitledThe One with the Ultimate Fighting Championfeatured a trio of UFC legends: David ‘Tank’ Abbott, John McCarthy, and Bruce Buffer.
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David ‘Tank’ Abbott
WhileTank Abbottdid not essentially win a world title and left the fighting world with a not-so-impressive MMA record, he captured fans’ attention with his combat style and signature look. He would be that one guy you don’t want to get a match inside the ring.
His appeal to the crowd was what attracted another promotion, the World Championship Wrestling. They banked on that promise and used the fighter’s experience and reputation to their advantage. Unfortunately, the plan did not really get off the ground. Still, Abbot’s cameo onFriendswas unforgettable for the avid fans.
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John McCarthy
John McCarthyis a retired veteran referee best known for officiating several bouts promoted by the Ultimate Fighting Championship. He appeared onFriendsas the referee, and he was initially surprised that the show wanted to collaborate with UFC given, at the time,Sen. John McCainsought to have the sport banned in all 50 states.
McCarthy could not believe the opportunity presented to him, but after he was approached to appear on the show, things just fell into place.
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Bruce Buffer
Bruce Bufferis a professional mixed martial arts ring announcer and the official octagon announcer for the UFC. Before he appeared onFriends, he was struggling to have a stable job, and he would attempt to convince then-UFC owner Bob Meyrowitz to regularize him as the octagon announcer.
JoiningFriendschanged Buffer’s life and career. He put all his best chips in and represented the UFC in one of the biggest shows in America at the time. He made a deal with the executive to help build his brand and make the sport legitimate in the country. After his stint inFriends, the rest is now history.
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Ariane Cruz
Senior Writer
Articles Published :3532
Ariane Cruz is a Senior Writer at FandomWire, majorly focusing on TV shows with over 3,000 articles published. Her love for pop culture and the creative arts fuels her passion to deliver engaging and informative stories. Her daily consumption of films, shows, and books keeps her energized for the day, along with her mission to serve as the bridge between fans and their favorite franchises.
