This week’s episode of WWE After The Bell dropped and Corey Graves was quick to address the elephant in the room when it came to his controversial Tweets that made waves over wrestling media this weekend during NXT TakeOver War Games in Toronto. Graves did not address Mauro Ranallo directly or by name, but he apologized to whoever took it as a means to disrespect or disparage anyone, stating that that wasn’t his intent.
“It was an unpopular opinion as I often do with the intention of just stirring up a little controversy maybe have something fun to talk about on TV or here on the show. It was maybe not the most professional way to go about things and it was never meant to offend or disrespect or disparage anybody, that was never my intention. If it was taken as such, I apologize deeply, that was not my intention. I would never intentionally cause anybody any undue stress, especially a co-worker, so I apologize.”
Graves’ Tweet implied that NXT lead commentator Mauro Ranallo didn’t give opportunities to speak to his broadcast partners in Beth Phoenix and Nigel McGuinness during the show:
“Just for the record guys, I know you wouldn’t know it, but there’s actually a WWE Hall of Famer AND a former Ring of Honor Champion on commentary. I’d imagine they have a lot to offer.”
https://twitter.com/WWEGraves/status/1198414519556562944?s=20
The next day at Survivor Series, Mauro Ranallo pulled out of the event and the commentary team cited it was because Ranallo’s voice “blew out” as the reason he wouldn’t be on the show. Ranallo suffers from bipolar disorder which can severely affect mood and emotions, which in turn can affect day-to-day activity. Graves has received a lot of ire for his comments from wrestling media, fans and friends of Ranallo including former UFC Lightweight Champion, Frank Shamrock. Ranallo will also not be calling tonight’s episode of NXT as it airs live from Full Sail University.
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