Corey Graves has been notably absent from WWE television following two brutal F5 finishers delivered by Brock Lesnar last month. During his absence, Booker T stepped in to fill the void on the SmackDown commentary panel. This week, the Hall of Famer ignited speculation when, just as Michael Cole was about to update viewers about Graves’ status, Booker T interrupted with a harsh declaration. The 60-year-old bluntly stated that Graves was done and finished, implying that he would never return to WWE.
Despite Booker T’s insistence, these comments do not reflect Graves’ actual situation, sparking curiosity among fans regarding possible real-life tension between the two commentators. However, this controversy is not fueled by genuine animosity.
The Reality Behind the On-Air Tension
Corey Graves and Booker T maintain a friendly relationship off-screen, with no hostile feelings between them. Their recent verbal exchange on SmackDown was a deliberate storyline device, likely laced with sarcasm directed at Graves’ recent physical fallout against Brock Lesnar. Their dynamic echoes a similar situation from 2018 when they engaged in a pointed blame game on air. During that time, both veterans exchanged harsh remarks blending fiction with reality, which captured audience attention for blurring the lines between performance and truth.
Eventually, both commentators clarified that their on-screen disputes were part of the scripted storytelling, not real-life disagreements. This current incident appears to follow the same pattern, with Booker T injecting exaggerated humor and drama into the commentary to add entertainment value rather than signaling any actual conflict.
Will Corey Graves’ SmackDown Role Continue Upon His Return?
Corey Graves’ hiatus from WWE television has been portrayed as a consequence of Brock Lesnar’s recent attack. Meanwhile, Booker T has temporarily joined Michael Cole on the SmackDown commentary desk, prompting rumors about Graves potentially losing his position. These rumors are unfounded, as Graves remains the designated commentator for the blue brand and is expected to reclaim his role once he is ready to return.
In addition to his work on SmackDown, Booker T currently serves as a color commentator for WWE’s NXT brand alongside Vic Joseph. There is no indication that he will hold dual commentary responsibilities long-term, suggesting his presence on SmackDown is only a temporary arrangement. WWE values Graves’ distinctive commentary style, which has earned him considerable acclaim, making it unlikely that the company will replace him permanently.
The situation remains fluid, and it will be intriguing to observe how WWE handles these roles in the coming weeks as Graves’ recovery progresses.
The Implications of the SmackDown Commentary Drama
This episodic tension between Corey Graves and Booker T illustrates WWE’s ongoing strategy of mixing reality and scripted elements to engage viewers. By injecting moments of apparent conflict into commentary, they create a layer of unpredictability that fuels fan interest and discussion. While fans often speculate about off-screen rivalries, these moments are carefully constructed performances rather than genuine disputes.
For Corey Graves, returning to the commentary desk on SmackDown will not only reaffirm his position but could also provide further storyline opportunities. Booker T’s dramatic interruption serves as a reminder of his skill in enhancing storylines through commentary, heightening anticipation for what might come next on WWE programming.
“Corey Graves has been away from WWE TV since suffering two devastating F5s at the hands of Brock Lesnar last month. Amid his absence, Booker T replaced him on the SmackDown commentary team. However, the Hall of Famer raised eyebrows with his actions this week. Just when Michael Cole was about to provide an update about his absent colleague, Booker T brutally interrupted Cole.” – Subhasish Deb, Sports Correspondent
“Booker T and Corey Graves do not have any animosity, and they happen to be good friends. The SmackDown angle was just an intended pun, with the Hall of Famer potentially taking sarcastic shots at Graves.” – Subhasish Deb, Sports Correspondent
“Corey Graves appears to be on a break from WWE, with the company showcasing the reason to be Brock Lesnar’s attack. Since then, Booker T has been tagging along with Michael Cole in the blue brand’s commentary desk. This has raised several speculations among fans in recent times.” – Subhasish Deb, Sports Correspondent
"He's finished, he's finished, he's done."
Booker T on Corey Graves 😂#SmackDown pic.twitter.com/zIsTGZ1Aww
— â• SlamX â• (@SubToSlamX) October 4, 2025
