Following Corey Graves’ attack by Brock Lesnar on last week’s WWE SmackDown, the commentary team may require a new member to fill Graves’ role temporarily or permanently. As the wrestling world anticipates Graves’ absence, the notion of Corey Graves SmackDown replacements has become a central topic among fans and insiders. Several experienced WWE personalities could step in to maintain the broadcast’s dynamic presence during his recovery or potential time away.
Vic Joseph: A Promising Voice from NXT
Vic Joseph has been the lead play-by-play commentator for WWE’s NXT brand since mid-2020, overseeing significant transitions such as the move to NXT 2.0 and its recent reversion to a more classic presentation style. His experience in narrating a wrestling product and adapting to changes makes him a natural candidate to potentially step onto the SmackDown commentary team. WWE is known for rotating announcers across brands, and Joseph’s prior fill-in appearances indicate he might be tested further for a permanent or partial role as a Corey Graves SmackDown replacement on the larger stage.
Wade Barrett: Veteran Announcer with SmackDown Experience
Wade Barrett, who has previously provided commentary on SmackDown, is another strong contender for Graves’ spot. Barrett recently took scheduled time off but returned for the Wrestlepalooza event, demonstrating his ability to work comfortably on multiple WWE shows. Recognized for his compelling delivery and effective representation of villainous characters, Barrett brings a balanced voice that both fans and wrestlers appreciate. If Graves’ absence extends, Barrett could potentially reclaim a regular position on SmackDown’s commentary team, ensuring a stable transition for viewers.
Booker T: Hall of Famer Offering Unique Commentary Style
Hall of Famer Booker T has made several appearances on NXT commentary alongside Joseph and Graves over the past year. His distinct approach, marked by vibrant reactions and candid remarks, offers fans an alternative to the more traditional commentators. Notably, Booker T’s enthusiastic response to Stephanie Vaquer’s signature move, the Devil’s Kiss, contributed to it becoming a fan-favorite moment. This unique flair could enhance SmackDown’s commentary, providing variety and insight if he steps in for Graves.
The Miz: A Reliable Fill-In with Sharp Insight
The Miz stepped up to fill the commentator role alongside Michael Cole after Graves was sidelined by Lesnar’s attack. Known for his quick wit and ability to analyze in-ring action with clarity, The Miz has filled this position multiple times in the past. With his recent storyline with Carmelo Hayes potentially concluding, The Miz might transition to commentary duties on a short-term basis, helping maintain the broadcast’s energy and insight.
Kevin Owens: The Prizefighter’s Potential Return to Commentary
Kevin Owens, absent from WWE programming due to neck surgery following WrestleMania season, remains a compelling candidate to join the SmackDown commentary team while recovering. Owens is celebrated for his sharp humor and deep understanding of wrestling storytelling, which have been hallmarks of his promos over the years. Integrating Owens as a part-time commentator could not only fill the gap left by Graves but also serve as a platform to build intrigue around Owens’ eventual return to in-ring competition.
What These Changes Could Mean for SmackDown
As Corey Graves undergoes treatment and recuperates, WWE faces the challenge of sustaining audience engagement through an effective commentary team. The five candidates—Vic Joseph, Wade Barrett, Booker T, The Miz, and Kevin Owens—each bring distinct qualities suited to different aspects of the show’s presentation. Their combined experience across WWE’s brands could help ensure that SmackDown continues to deliver high-quality commentary during this transitional period.
Moreover, some replacements, like Kevin Owens, might use this role as a stepping stone for future storylines, increasing fan anticipation for their possible in-ring returns. Meanwhile, WWE’s willingness to rotate announcers showcases the company’s adaptive approach to maintaining its broadcast standards amid unforeseen injuries and schedule shifts.
“Clickbait / Misleading”
“Factually Incorrect”
“Hateful or Abusive”
“Baseless Opinion”
“Too Many Ads”
“Other”
“Brock Lesnar hit Corey Graves with two F5s on last week’s episode of WWE SmackDown.”
– Matt Serocki
“Graves implored The Beast to leave Michael Cole alone as he was set to interview Lesnar ahead of Wrestlepalooza.”
– Matt Serocki
“Joseph could be getting a call-up to one of the main roster shows as a partial or permanent replacement for Graves.”
– Matt Serocki
“Wade Barrett… has proven that he can work on any show and is a good mouthpiece for the villainous stars of WWE.”
– Matt Serocki
“Booker T offers fans a different take and style as opposed to the straight-laced play-by-play announcers.”
– Matt Serocki
“After Graves was injured by Brock Lesnar, the Miz filled in on commentary with Michael Cole.”
– Matt Serocki
“Kevin Owens is one of the funniest and most insightful performers, as evidenced by his promos over the years.”
– Matt Serocki
