From the WWE Rumour Mill: Reason for Mauro Ranallo's initial departure revealed?
What's the story?
Former SmackDown Live announcer Mauro Ranallo, departed from the company in March this year to make a comeback recently as the play-by-play announcer for NXT, Dave Meltzer from Wrestling Observer stated that the original reason for his departure may not have been JBL, as it was initially believed. We bring you his thoughts, courtesy Ring Side News.
Instead it may have been the final straw that broke the camel's back. The actual reason could have been some unsavory remarks that had been fed to JBL on commentary.
In case you didn't know...
Mauro Ranallo, often heralded as one of the best announcers in the world of combat sports first missed the March 14 episode of SmackDown Live. Thereafter, he would miss many more weeks and go on a leave of absence for months, ultimately leading to a comeback announcement in June, to the NXT brand.
Ranallo has been very public about his mental health issues, and it was estimated that they had been triggered by JBL's comments, according to reports that had surfaced online, not very long ago.
The heart of the matter
While JBL's comments may have led to Mauro's eventual leave of absence, it is believed that he was fed lines by those backstage, while he was on commentary. While he may have been the instrument that delivered the lines, JBL did not come up with all the unsavory remarks.
It is believed that Ranallo returned to WWE once again, to work in close association with Michael Cole and Triple H, two men that he respects and is on good terms with, according to Mr. Meltzer.
What's next?
Mauro Ranallo works a reduced schedule and is only associated with the NXT brand. He seems happy and content in his role, for now.
Author's take
Much as been said about this matter, and as people who are not privy to private conversations, it would be unfair to take a side. As a fan of his work, it's great to see Mauro Ranallo back in the midst of things again. Let's hope this particular run of his is uninterrupted.