Top Rank makes it official for Crystina Poncher, one of boxing's best behind the mic

Top Rank Boxing’s Crystina Poncher has long been behind the microphone, in support, commentary and lead roles for some of Top Rank’s biggest and best shows.

But her new role sees the company giving their official stamp of approval for her as one of the very best in broadcasting, something fight fans have seen (and heard) for a long time.

Las Vegas-based Top Rank Boxing, the leader in boxing promotion in the industry, buttoned down a new deal with their long-time color commentator and ringside analyst Poncher that will see her officially take the lead role as the play by-play voice for all their ESPN+ undercard bouts along with their international broadcasts.

Poncher came into the (predominantly male dominated) boxing business 10+ years ago and while new to goings on in the squared circle, she was long respected in the sports world. She had worked hard to earn a reputation for hard work and professionalism while working as a correspondent on the NFL Network, as a host for Fox Sports West and Prime Ticket and while also doing news spots for Fox Sports Flash.

When Poncher stepped into boxing she brought the same enthusiasm and desire to be the best that has long been the trademark of her work.

Recently, Poncher had hinted in social media that something exciting was coming down the pipe for her as she tweeted out last week that - “It’s been great reporting for ESPN for these last few shows and now I’m ready to put the headset on again and start calling fights again. More news to come so stay tuned.”

In an official release, Top Rank Boxing said:

“Top Rank is excited to announce that our long time broadcaster Crystina Poncher will now be the official play-by-play voice for all ESPN + undercard and international broadcasts”.

Shortly after, Poncher responded on Twitter saying, “I’m ready to take the next step in my career. It’s been almost a decade in the making. Thank you to all those who have supported and believed. The grind continues”.

Los Angeles-born Poncher, who still lives there with her husband and young son (who steals the show at most pressers and weigh-ins she brings him to) has worked extensively with ESPN broadcasters Joe Tessatore, Andre Ward, Timothy Bradley Jr. and Mark Kriegel (among others).

She also frequently works alongside part-time, guest analyst Brian MacIntyre who steps behind the mic for support commentary when he isn’t busy training Terence “Bud” Crawford, considered perhaps the best fighter in the game.

Reached by Maxboxing shortly after the announcement, the always-enthusiastic Poncher was excited to get to work.

“I still have a lot to learn, but I am ready for the challenge”, she said.

Something tells me that she will meet and greet the challenge with the same drive and determination for excellence that has defined her ever-burgeoning career - great news for fight fans!