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In a surprising and unexpected move, Samantha Irvin took to social media and announced her decision to leave WWE. Irvin was not present on the latest episode of RAW, with legendary ring announcer Lilian Garcia replacing her on the red brand.
There was speculation about why Samantha Irvin left the Stamford-based company and whether WWE fired her. However, according to PWInsider, Irvin was not released, instead, she resigned and quit her job. Per the report, WWE was not aware of her intention to leave and found it out on Monday, so bringing Lilian Garcia in was a last-minute decision.
The 35-year-old hinted at her next move, with her fiance, Ricochet, denying the rumors that Samantha will join AEW. There is also no confirmation on what led to Irvin's decision to quit and whether it had anything to do with Ricochet's departure from WWE back in June 2024.
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WWE personnel 'shocked' by Samantha Irvin's departure
It appears that WWE personnel was not aware of Samantha Irvin's intention to leave and pursue another job, and was 'shocked' by her decision to quit the Stamford-based company.
"I’m told the news of Samantha Irvin leaving the company has genuinely shocked a lot of people backstage at RAW in Philly this afternoon," according to a report from WrestleVotes.
Irvin joined WWE in 2021 and stayed with the company for more than three years. She was the ring announcer on NXT before moving to the main roster, first on SmackDown and then on RAW. She became a fan-favorite and her highlight moment was her announcement when Cody Rhodes finished his story at WrestleMania XL and became the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion after defeating Roman Reigns.
As to who will replace Irvin on RAW, Lilian Garcia was the ring announcer on the latest episode of the red brand, making her first appearance in WWE since May 13, 2024. There are reports that Garcia will return to WWE as a full-time ring announcer on the main roster, but there is no official confirmation on whether she will be the one to replace Samantha.
It remains to be seen what plans Triple H has in store for the 58-year-old legend.
