Good morning, and this is the Grapevine! This section of Smark Henry is where we round up all the founded and unfounded rumors abound the pro wrestling scene that you may have missed over the evening.
There's some new info surrounding JBL's departure from SmackDown:
- JBL leaving his commentary post on SmackDown Live had been planned long before this, even before the Mauro Ranallo controversy. He mentioned that he would spend more time with his nonprofit organization for at-risk youth in Bermuda, and he actually put in his notice last October when his contract expired. It seems that JBL had been burned out by the company's road schedule, coming in for SmackDown on Tuesday instead of the required Sunday. As announced by WWE, Corey Graves will be replacing JBL on SmackDown, effectively having him call both shows, and Nigel McGuinness will be replacing Graves on 205 Live and Main Event.
Regarding the Mauro controversy, there was some pressure from the WWE Board of Directors to fire JBL because of it, but Vince McMahon refused to do so knowing the story would die down. JBL was not punished for it, and Mauro was able to return to the company. (Source: Sports Illustrated)
We say: It's long past time for the most controversial commentator to leave. The issue with Mauro is moot, and things won't change until Vince leaves the company. We're just excited for how much better SmackDown Live will sound tomorrow with Graves on color commentary.
- Baron Corbin got into an argument with controversial WWE-associated neurosurgeon Dr. Joseph Maroon backstage, which might have been what dampened his push. Maroon was downplaying the results of a recent study that claimed 99% of deceased NFL players suffered from CTE, based on the state of their brains. Corbin openly disputed Maroon, claiming that based on his NFL experience, the study makes sense considering there is head contact in pretty much every play. Apparently, the exchange was more disruptive than enlightening, despite Corbin not raising his voice in any way. Some were impressed by Corbin speaking up, while some feel that this might have been a factor in the reduction of his push. (Source: PWInsider)
We say: Judging from the story, it doesn't seem to be the biggest factor for the company pulling back on him, especially considering his onscreen interactions with John Cena. Either way, if this is actually a reason, it seems to be another petty move by the company.
Let us know what you think of this news in the comments!
Photo from WWE
