Wrestling injuries can bring an abrupt halt to a competitor’s career, a reality all too familiar within WWE circles. Corey Graves is one such talent who had to step away from active competition due to injury concerns. Currently, he is honing his skills as a commentator, embracing this role with a forward-looking mindset.
Graves, who had previously gained momentum as a wrestler in NXT, faced an unforeseen shift in his career after retiring in 2014 because of concussions. Fans were left questioning if a return to in-ring action for Graves would be a possibility.
While wrestling in NXT, Graves made a name for himself by clinching the NXT Tag Team Championships with Adrian Neville (now PAC), with his final bout occurring at WrestleMania Axxess nine years ago against Troy McClain.
Post-retirement, Graves seamlessly transitioned into the commentary world within WWE. His distinctive voice has become a hallmark on WWE broadcasts.
After his elevation to the lead play-by-play commentator position on WWE SmackDown last year in February, Graves spoke about his enthusiasm for the “evolution” in his role during an interview on The Gunz Show. He recognized the rarity of individuals excelling long-term in this domain.
“Sitting in the colored chair is a blast but trying to steer the ship and avoid the iceberg for a full two-hour show, or however long it may be, it’s a pretty daunting task and I’m still getting my feet underneath me. I feel like I came out of the gate pretty strong. I’m feeling confident and comfortable. I’m looking forward to my own evolution and really try to carve my own niche because there haven’t been a lot of long-term, play-by-play guys in WWE history.”
With a promising future ahead, it’s clear that commentary will remain Corey Graves’s primary focus rather than a return to the ring.
What are your thoughts on Corey Graves’s sentiments? Should he stick to his role as a commentator? Share your views in the comments section below!
FAQ about Corey Graves’s Career and Commentary Role
- Why did Corey Graves retire from in-ring competition?
Corey Graves retired from in-ring competition due to a series of concussions that made it unsafe for him to continue wrestling. - Has Corey Graves expressed any interest in returning to wrestling?
While Graves has not ruled out the possibility entirely, his current focus and interest lie in developing his commentary career within WWE. - What accomplishment did Corey Graves achieve during his time in NXT?
Graves was successful in winning the NXT Tag Team Championships with Adrian Neville while competing in NXT. - What is the significance of Corey Graves’s role as a play-by-play commentator?
Being a play-by-play commentator is a prominent and challenging position within the WWE commentary team. Graves’s role is critical in narrating the unfolding in-ring action and storytelling to the viewers.
Conclusion
Corey Graves has proven to be adaptable and resilient in the face of career-changing injuries. His pivot from the physicality of wrestling to the verbal art of commentary demonstrates a dynamic shift that few have successfully managed. Fully embracing his position behind the mic, Graves is less focused on an in-ring comeback and more intent on crafting a lasting legacy as one of WWE’s signature voices. Fans and colleagues alike may continue to be awed by his articulation and insight into the world of professional wrestling, a realm where he remains a vital and influential figure.