Jimmy Smith will be the new lead commentator for WWE RAW. Smith will be taking over lead announcing duties from previous commentator Adnan Virk. WWE and Virk parted ways mutually earlier in the week. The news was confirmed on WWE’s social media along with Smith’s start date. The new broadcasters debut show will be on Monday May 31st.
WWE today announced that @jimmysmithmma will debut as the play-by-play voice for #WWERaw starting this Monday, May 31 at 8/7c on @USA_Network.https://t.co/8mUWqEkv4X
— WWE (@WWE) May 26, 2021
WWE announced the following on their website on May 26th:
WWE today announced that Jimmy Smith will debut as the play-by-play voice for Monday Night Raw starting this Monday, May 31 at 8/7c on USA Network.
Recently, Smith served as an analyst for NXT, where he hosted NXT TakeOver pre-show panels and worked on special projects for the black-and-gold brand. He is also the daily host of SiriusXM’s “Unlocking the Cage” and was the host of “American Ninja Warrior” on G4.
WWE
Jimmy Smith Confirms WWE Raw Appointment
The announcement also confirms that the rest of the Monday Night RAW announce team remains unchanged. Jimmy Smith will join Byron Saxton and Corey Graves in announcing duties on WWE’s flagship show. Jimmy has also expressed his nerves and commitment in a post on his Twitter account:
Hey guys, well it’s been a busy day😳. Apparently @WWE liked my work so far. I know I’m stepping into a new world (I WAS a Mr. Perfect and Bruiser Brody fanatic however) but know I’ll do everything I can to honor the athletes and fans. Watch Monday and judge my work for yourself
— Jimmy Smith (@jimmysmithmma) May 26, 2021
Jimmy Smith is no stranger to both grappling and to commentary. He has past experience as a MMA fighter, with a 5 and 1 win/loss record. Jimmy also has provided commentary for MMA promotion Bellator.
In a follow up post on social media, Jimmy Smith has also confirmed that WWE are allowing him to continue with his existing projects:
Oh, and since so many people are asking: I WILL be continuing my show for @MMAonSiriusXM!! @KMurphy25 and @MRussoKOB literally begged me to stay
— Jimmy Smith (@jimmysmithmma) May 27, 2021
Featured image: WWE
