Well this is weird, but at the end of the day, it's good news for WWE programming.
Lead play-by-play announcer Mauro Ranallo announced on Thursday that he will be returning to the WWE announce desk on the NXT program that airs on the WWE Network on Wednesday nights.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BVp4v6IgOoc/
Related: Former champion reportedly in talks to return to WWE for first time in seven years
"THE NXT CHAPTER BEGINS!" Ranallo said in his statement. "WWE and I mutually agreed to end my responsibilities on SmackDown having nothing to do with rumors about disputes. As I remained under contract with WWE, we discussed a variety of options. Despite originally agreeing to part ways, there was always a desire to continue working together. We have come to terms on a new agreement that benefits both WWE and me, and I am thrilled to announce I will now be part of the NXT broadcasting team."
Ranallo was the lead commentator of SmackDown Live on Tuesday nights, until he stopped appearing on the show in March. Ranallo and WWE had initially agreed to part ways, but instead he will be returning to the Wednesday's NXT show.
Ranallo said at the time that he was dealing with mental health issues, and there were rumors that clashes with fellow announcer John "Bradshaw" Layfield could have led to Ranallo's departure. However, Ranallo directly disputed that in his statement on his return.
In addition to WWE, Ranallo will continue his duties as the SHOwtime lead boxing commentator. Ranallo is expected to call the August 26 Conor McGregor and Floyd Mayweather fight. Ranallo is also taking on duties with Bellator MMA as a commentator with former UFC commentator Mike Goldberg.
