What’s the story?
In what has developed into an unfortunate situation, it appears that Mauro Ranallo may have done his last announcing work for WWE. However, according to Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Mauro may not have called his last wrestling match.
In case you didn’t know...
Mauro Ranallo was initially conspicuous by his absence on March 14th, when he was absent from SmackDown LIVE and 205 LIVE. At the time, WWE said that his absence was because of inclement weather. However, as the weeks wore on, Ranallo continued to be absent from the blue brand.
Trending
Former WWE writer buries Judgment Day HERE
It would later be revealed that Mauro was dealing with a bout of depression in relation to his bipolar disorder. Ranallo was diagnosed with the disorder at a young age and has been an advocate for mental health throughout his life, even dubbing himself, “The Bipolar Rock and Roller.”
As more information continued to come to the surface, there was speculation that comments made to Ranallo by JBL may have triggered the episode.
In the last few days, more information about JBL’s propensity for bullying has come to light.
The heart of the matter
Dave Meltzer took some time recently to answer a fan’s question regarding Mauro Ranallo’s future. The fan asked if Meltzer could see Mauro Ranallo taking over English commentary duties for New Japan Pro Wrestling soon.
Exciting news for fans of NJPW.
What’s next?
It is believed that Mauro Ranallo will not return to WWE before his contract expires in August of 2017.
Author’s Take
Whether you love Mauro or not, you can not deny the enthusiasm and knowledge he brought to the SmackDown announce desk. His pop culture references may have worn thin for some, but I feel that they made the product feel more authentic and mainstream.
New Japan Pro Wrestling is holding shows in the United States this year, and more shows will certainly follow if they are successful. With Jim Ross returning to WWE, New Japan’s English-language broadcast needs a new play-by-play man, and I really don’t think that they could do any better than Mauro Ranallo.
Send us news tips at [email protected]
