Jimmy Smith has confirmed his WWE exit as the corporate introduced a serious shakeup to its Uncooked, SmackDown and NXT commentary groups.
The previous Bellator and American Ninja Warrior broadcaster joined the Monday Night time Uncooked introduced desk in Might 2021 alongside Byron Saxton and Corey Graves, however now solely Graves stays as Kevin Patrick will get promoted.
Shortly after the groups have been revealed, Smith took to Twitter to tank WWE followers for ‘accepting’ him in a quick however stylish assertion.
He tweeted: ‘Simply needed to say, now that the story is formally out, that my time with the WWE is formally completed.
‘Had loads of enjoyable and met some nice individuals. Actually and actually blown away by the acceptance from the WWE followers! You of us make it work each week and your enthusiasm was superb!’
As a part of the adjustments, Graves – who had been filling in for Pat McAfee on SmackDown – will deal with the pink model, whereas he and veteran announcer Michael Cole will helm premium reside occasions.
Talking of Cole, he stays the lead voice on the blue model with former Intercontinental Champion Wade Barrett shifting over from NXT to land his first predominant roster commentary job.
As for NXT, WWE’s developmental model retains Vic Joseph because the play by play, and he’ll be calling the motion on Wednesday nights alongside Corridor of Famer Booker T.
There are additionally some on digicam adjustments with regards to the interview groups, with fan favorite Cathy Kelley again within the fold, whereas Byron Saxton takes up the identical position after a spell as Uncooked commentator.
Kayla Braxton and Megan Morant would be the SmackDown interview group, whereas McKenzie Mitchell continues her position on NXT.
In the meantime, the corporate additionally gave a agency Pat McAfee replace after his shock SmackDown exit final month, noting that he ‘will return to the WWE announce sales space following his commitments to ESPN’s School GameDay’.
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