As we’ve previously reported, former WWE Champion John Bradshaw Layfield (JBL) has decided to step down from his regular position as commentator for SmackDown Live on Tuesday nights. JBL noted that his decision was due to his desire to focus more of his time on helping at-risk youth and communities in Bermuda.
Per a report from Justin Barrasso of Sports Illustrated, JBL had these plans even before the bullying allegations against former SmackDown Live commentator Mauro Ranallo came to light. The decision was reportedly made about 11 months ago after his contract with the promotion expired this past October. It was then that he put in his notice. Following allegations of bullying Ranallo, Vince McMahon was under a ton of pressure from WWE Board Of Directors to fire JBL, to which he refused.
Another key reason JBL decided to walk away was WWE’s exhausting travel schedule. WWE wanted to bring him in the Sunday prior to SmackDown Live, however, JBL would arrive the day of the show, making it just hours before showtime. He was able to get away with this for two months before being confronted about it by WWE officials. JBL was said to be burned out and his decision to leave was completely his.
