Mauro Ranallo Is Headed Back To The WWE To Commentate NXT

Mauro Ranallo- WWE and I mutually agreed to end my responsibilities on SmackDown having nothing to do with rumors about disputes. As I remained under contract with WWE, we discussed a variety of options. Despite originally agreeing to part ways, there was always a desire to continue working together. We have come to terms on a new agreement that benefits both WWE and me, and I am thrilled to announce I will now be part of the NXT broadcasting team.

There’s a ton of routes to go on this one. For starters, congrats to Mauro Ranallo. His departure from WWE was a super shitty scenario where he was seemingly bullied about his mental illness to the point where he had to leave his job. I wrote about it pretty extensively here. I’m happy with the two could come to a mutual agreement and work together, because I really do enjoy his commentary. I feel like NXT is a much better fit for him than SmackDown or RAW as well, and the Cruiserweight Classic was crucial in making me realize this. His indie and Japanese references play to the audience that is hardcore enough to be watching these shows, not the casual fan tuning in for John Cena and only John Cena.

I’d be a hypocrite to not point out his hypocrisy, however. Mauro Ranallo basically trashed the fuck out of WWE, JBL, and anyone related to them for months. He’d RT and quote tweet anyone who maliciously or kindly talked shit, and heavily hint that JBL was the direct and only reason he left. Then, he turns around and tells us “WWE and I mutually agreed to end my responsibilities on SmackDown having nothing to do with rumors about disputes” which is obviously bullshit. I do think there’s a chance the rehiring could have had to do with a potential lawsuit, but I wouldn’t bet on it. Regardless, I’ll look at the positive and be excited to hear some MAMMA MIA’s on Wednesday nights.