The new lead voice of WWE SmackDown, Mauro Ranallo, spoke with The Sporting News shortly after the announcement was made that he had signed with WWE. Below are some of the highlights from the interview.
On how he got the WWE announcing job:
“Yeah, this has been an expedited process to say the least. About a month and a half ago, maybe even less, it’s been a whirlwind, I was contacted by Michael Cole. In addition to being the voice of the WWE, he also oversees all of the on-air talent. He emailed me to gauge my interest in working for the company which I found to be flattering and very surprising that at this stage of my career. Needless to say, I said I was very interested because anyone who knows me and has followed my career knows how much sports entertainment — WWE — has been a big part of my life as a fan. Even in my combat sports commentary, the myriad of references I’ve made to my first love are very evident. After I contacted Michael Cole and talked to him in person and understood exactly what they were offering and what they wanted me to do with the company, it really took off from there.”
On if we will see his same persona in WWE:
“Fair question and I think it begins with the fact that I will be known as Mauro Ranallo on SmackDown. I understand why they want to change people’s names and want to give them their own identity but the fact that they respect my breath of work and respect what I’ve done over the last 30 years as a broadcaster already puts me in a proper mindset. I’m going to call WWE like I call everything. Yes, I’m going to be passionate. Yes, I’m going to be excited but at the same time I’m hoping to get better as a storyteller and I’m hoping to complement the people I work with who have been doing this a lot longer than I have. “
