The long-time running sitcom Friends had featured a lot of celebrity appearances, but one particular actor may have been forgotten by fans: Jon Favreau. The Mandalorian director 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 of Friends’ fame, it received mainstream attention.
Season 3 Episode 24 entitled The One with the Ultimate Fighting Champion featured a trio of UFC legends: David ‘Tank’ Abbott, John McCarthy, and Bruce Buffer.
David ‘Tank’ Abbott
While Tank Abbott did 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 on Friends was unforgettable for the avid fans.
John McCarthy
John McCarthy is a retired veteran referee best known for officiating several bouts promoted by the Ultimate Fighting Championship. He appeared on Friends as the referee, and he was initially surprised that the show wanted to collaborate with UFC given, at the time, Sen. John McCain sought 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.
Bruce Buffer
Bruce Buffer is a professional mixed martial arts ring announcer and the official octagon announcer for the UFC. Before he appeared on Friends, he was struggling to have a stable job, and he would try to convince then-UFC owner Bob Meyrowitz to regularize him as the octagon announcer.
Joining Friends changed 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 in Friends, the rest is now history.
