Samantha Irvin’s journey has taken her from the high-energy world of wrestling to the creative freedom of music, but her connection to wrestling remains profoundly emotional and genuine.
In recent appearances on Busted Open, she opened up about both her love for the business and a particularly moving moment at WrestleMania 41. Reflecting on her time as a WWE ring announcer, she shared:
“You would have to be dead inside to hear [The Rock’s music] sitting in my chair with my background and my past and not be excited.”
During another recent appearance on Busted Open, Irvin revealed a deeply personal moment from WrestleMania 41, where she announced Cody Rhodes’ capture the Undisputed WWE Championship. “I was not there for work. I was literally there, like, just as me, just Sammie,” she explained.
“I started crying before the finish. I started crying when The Undertaker came out. And then Cody winning… it all just came crashing down. Every sad thing, every crazy thing, all the stuff in wrestling that you can’t talk about. It just all came out in that moment.”
As someone who has lived and breathed wrestling, Samantha continues to maintain her connection to the industry while pursuing her other passions. Her genuine emotional investment in the business shows through in every appearance, demonstrating that her bond with wrestling extends far beyond her professional role.
Samantha is looking beyond her announcing career and setting her sights on a potential future in wrestling’s creative side, where she hopes to contribute as a writer or booker. During a recent appearance on Busted Open, she reflected on her journey in professional wrestling and hinted at what could come next.
“I would have loved to try every single thing… but really, I would like to write… Paul Heyman is absolutely a big inspiration to me.”
Heyman, a legendary figure in wrestling known for his innovative storytelling, has played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of countless superstars. Samantha, inspired by his creativity, hopes to one day contribute to the industry in a similar way.
A New Era for Women in Wrestling
Samantha’s ambitions come at a time when women are increasingly taking on leadership and creative positions in wrestling. As more female voices emerge in the world of booking and storytelling, the industry is evolving beyond traditional gender roles.
Her ability to bring a fresh perspective and deep understanding of wrestling could make her a valuable asset behind the scenes. While music is her primary focus now, her love for the business suggests that a return to wrestling—this time as a creative force—may not be far off.
Samantha Irvin would have not remained as a ring announcer in WWE if Vince McMahon was still running things, according to the announcer/musician. Speaking on Busted Open Radio, Irvin speculated as to how her WWE career could have been different had McMahon not been absent for much of her tenure.
“Vince would have taken her off of ring announcing. He would have been like, ‘Put her somewhere else and have her do something else.’ In my head, I always thought that’s what would happen.”
Irvin’s belief is that McMahon would have forseen a role for her bigger than ring announcing. Instead, WWE’s current administration only saw her as an announcer, which played a large role in her decision to leave in October 2024. Irvin herself has said that she hoped that announcing would lead into a role as a manager or General Manager, but that didn’t pan out.
While her time with WWE is over, Irvin shared on the show that “I’m not done with wrestling at all” but is focusing on projects outside the squared circle for the time being. This week, Irvin will release ‘Make Me,’ her first piece of music to be released since 2020.
Though many have suspected that Irvin will find her way to AEW alongside her fiancee Ricochet, that has yet to happen. Nevertheless, Irvin remains optimistic for a future in wrestling beyond ring announcing, and believes that would’ve happpened already under WWE’s previous adminstration.
Samantha Irvin became one of WWE’s most recognizable voices, but she recently admitted that ring announcing was never her passion. Speaking on Busted Open, Irvin revealed that announcing was just a way to break into the company, and she had ambitions to take on other roles—including refereeing and writing.
“When I said, ‘I don’t like announcing. That’s not really what I want to do,’ it’s hard… it’s a real job that I’m honestly not good at,” Irvin admitted.
“Because I’m gonna cry if Shawn Michaels comes out, so I’m not good at this.”
She expressed appreciation for WWE allowing her creative freedom but always wanted to explore different opportunities.
“I just wanted the opportunity to challenge if maybe it wasn’t just the ring announcing people loved. Give me a chance to see if maybe it’s just Samantha. Put me in some other positions.”
Irvin even pitched the idea of becoming a WWE referee but was turned down.
“At one point, I asked if I could referee, and they were like, ‘No!’” she recalled with a laugh.
She was also interested in writing for the company, revealing that before she officially took the ring announcer job, she had been interviewing for a different department within WWE.
“I wanna be an old lady, an old, smart lady who knows everything and makes sht happen.”*
One of the few people who recognized her ambitions was Michael Hayes, who saw her drive to learn.
“He was like, ‘You wanna learn everything don’t ya?’ And I was like, ‘Yeah.’”
While Irvin didn’t get the chance to transition beyond announcing in WWE, she’s now returning to her first love—music. She will release her debut single “Make Me” on February 14, marking the start of a new chapter in her career.
Samantha Irvin had one of the most memorable calls in WWE history when she announced Cody Rhodes as the new Undisputed WWE Champion at WrestleMania XL. However, she now looks back on that moment with regret, saying she let her emotions take over and felt she failed as an announcer.
“I was not there for work. I was literally there, like, just as me, just Sammie,” Irvin admitted on Busted Open.
“I started crying before the finish. I started crying when The Undertaker came out. And then Cody winning… it all just came crashing down. Every sad thing, every crazy thing, all the stuff in wrestling that you can’t talk about. It just all came out in that moment.”
Irvin felt so overwhelmed that she immediately questioned whether she belonged in the role.
“I felt absolutely terrible. I said—okay, I have to leave now, obviously. I’m done. Because I’m a terrible announcer. Because I prioritized being a fan in that moment.”
Her emotional delivery resonated with fans, making her one of WWE’s most beloved voices, but for Irvin, it was a sign that her future lay elsewhere.
Having moved on from WWE, she’s returning to her roots in music, with her debut single “Make Me” dropping on February 14.
Samantha Irvin’s days entertaining others aren’t over despite her exit from WWE, as new music by the former ring announcer will drop this week. Irvin will mark Valentine’s Day with the release of “Make Me.” This marks her first musical release since 2020, signaling a renewed focus on her passion for music. A description for Make Me reads:
“Make Me” is Samantha’s first solo single release since 2020. A soulful r&b/pop song that is true to her as an artist; this is the perfect re-introduction for supporters of her sound.
Irvin studied classical music from the age of four and competed nationally as a flautist. In addition to her skills on the flute, her talents led her to perform as the lead female vocalist in the “Thriller – Live” Michael Jackson tribute show from 2011 to 2015. In 2015, she gained national attention as a semi-finalist on “America’s Got Talent” and released her EP, “27Underground,” featuring the debut single “Jump High” the following year.
“Make Me” marks Irvin’s biggest move in the entertainment world since her abrupt exit from WWE in October 2024. At the time, it was reported that Irvin’s decision stemmed from an inability to pursue external projects, including her music, while part of WWE. Though some expected Irvin to join her fiance Ricochet in AEW, that has yet to happen.
Fans eagerly anticipate “Make Me,” viewing it as the beginning of an exciting new chapter in Irvin’s multifaceted career. Though Irvin recently called a return to the wrestling industry a “guarantee,” her focus remains on advancing her music career at this time.
Click here to check out more of Irvin’s music ahead of the release of Make Me on February 14.
Samantha Irvin is getting back into the music business, and it all really kicks off for her on Valentine’s Day.
Irvin officially left her ring announcing duties from WWE four months ago. She revealed to USA Today that while there was nothing specific for her exit, a major motivator was that she wanted to return to singing.
“It just became more and more sad as time went on, because it’s like, ‘Wow, am I just not a singer anymore? Like, what am I doing?’” she said. “I know that I am a performer and being a ring announcer on WWE, it was the performance of a lifetime.
But then when people stopped calling me for singing gigs, and now they’re asking me to announce everything, I said, ‘Oh no, I took it too far.’
Now Irvin has a new single lined up, titled “Make Me,” which she describes as a “personal little love letter to everyone.” She and WWE left matters amicably. The speculation was that Irvin could head to AEW, considering she is in a relationship with Ricochet, but that wasn’t in the cards for her. She does hope the wrestling fan base will continue with her as she gets back to an original passion.
“Hopefully the fans that were touched by my vocal performance in WWE will give the music and everything else I do a chance, because it’s the same thing that I’ve always done, and everything that I do, I try to pour as much emotion into it and make people feel something.”
However, if fans were worried she is leaving wrestling for good, fear not.
“My wrestling career has barely even begun. I think it would be an absolute waste of everything that I’ve done so far to not continue the story. I gotta finish my story.”
Former WWE ring announcer Samantha Irvin is embracing her future outside of wrestling with new music coming next month. To celebrate her birthday, Irvin took to Instagram to share that her newest musical project will be released on Valentine’s Day (February 14). Irvin’s announcement also saw birthday wishes in the comments from the likes of Nia Jax, Saraya, and more.
Irvin parted ways with WWE in October 2024, and shared shortly after that she planned on pursuing her career as a musician. Though she has no interest in returning to wrestling as an announcer, Irvin has teased being a manager. The role is one WWE wished to hold in WWE, and realizing that the company never saw her as anything more than a ring announcer played a role in her decision to leave.
Irvin is no stranger to music, with notable highlights of hers including.
2011–2015: Performed as the lead female vocalist in the Michael Jackson tribute show Thriller – Live.
2015: Competed in season 10 of America’s Got Talent, auditioning with Aretha Franklin’s “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman”; advanced to the semi-finals.
2015: Headlined the show Home at the Zeiterion Performing Arts Center in New Bedford, showcasing her talents in singing, whistling, dancing, storytelling, and flute playing.
2016: Released an EP titled 27Underground, featuring the debut single “Jump High,” with backing vocals from her siblings.
2016: Played the role of Betty Rizzo in a production of Grease at the New Bedford Festival Theatre.
2020: Appeared on FOX’s I Can See Your Voice, performing Lizzo’s “Good as Hell” while playing the flute.
Irvin continues to make waves in entertainment, even with questions remaining about her future in the wrestling industry. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on Samantha Irvin and her projects in and out of the ring.
The frosty reception Hulk Hogan received at WWE Raw’s debut on Netflix is hardly the first time those at a WWE event have booed the Hall of Famer. Taking to X, former WWE ring announcer Samantha Irvin shared that whenever Hulk Hogan impressions sprouted during commercial breaks, those at WWE shows made their views clear on the Hulkster.
In the commercial breaks we would sometimes do a “Hulk Up Cam”…. and let me tell you something brother- they would be booing lol
Hogan appeared to promote his Real American Beer, the official beer sponsor of Raw and WWE programming moving forward. Despite speaking about his passion for WWE and the fans, those inside Los Angeles’ Intuit Dome had no love for the controversial two-time WWE Hall of Famer.
Hogan’s name has been linked to controversy for years, with several wrestlers accusing him of politicking and hurting the careers of others for his own gain. In 2015, Hogan was fired from WWE after racist comments surfaced in a leaked video. In the footage, Hogan expressed opposition to his daughter dating Black men, repeatedly used a racial slur, and admitted to being “a racist, to a point.”
More recently, Hogan faced backlash for his ties to Donald Trump. In 2024, the wrestler sparked controversy by making ‘jokes’ about using wrestling moves on Kamala Harris. Hogan later attributed the comments to being under the influence of his Real American Beer, stating it was “the beer talking.”
Hogan has been promoting this month’s Saturday Night’s Main Event, after being completely committed from last month’s event. With the January 25, event coming to Texas, a state that endorsed the President-Elect, it remains to be seen what kind of response the Hulkster will receive.
Samantha Irvin, known for her electrifying voice and vibrant personality, shocked WWE fans a few months ago when she announced her departure from the company. Her impassioned ring announcements had made her a fan favorite, but her exit also highlighted the toxicity that can exist within passionate wrestling fandoms.
In discussing her decision to leave WWE, Irvin revealed that she had never intended to remain a full-time ring announcer. While she appreciated the role, her ultimate aspiration was to take on different responsibilities within the wrestling world, particularly as a manager.
Champions and Main Eventers
On Sunday, Irvin doubled down on her dream of managing. When a fan asked on social media which wrestler she should manage and for what promotion, Irvin responded confidently, stating,
“For champions and main eventers for the best promotion on Earth.”
The statement not only fueled speculation about her next move but also underscored her ambition to work alongside the top talent in the business.
Samantha Irvin’s determination to redefine her role in wrestling showcases her passion and ambition to leave an even greater mark on the industry.
Samantha Irvin has shared more on her decision to leave WWE, which won’t be the last time fans see the former ring announcer in wrestling. On X, Irvin reacted to JoJo Offerman announcing a match ahead of the latest AEW Collision. When a fan said that Irvin should become a manager in wrestling, the 35-year-old shared that this was the plan.
Whether Irvin becomes a wrestling manager or not, fans shouldn’t expect her to be a ring announcer again. When a commenter made clear, with some choice verbiage, their opposition to Irvin’s announcing, she explained why she is finished with that role.
Don’t worry I won’t ring announce again. I agree with you fully. Except the attention seeking part, I wasn’t comfortable with the attention hence why I am no longer there. Thank you for your tweet ??
Irvin surprised fans with her exit from WWE in October 2024 and there were several developments that became apparent in the following days.
Departure Announcement: On October 21, 2024, Irvin announced her departure from WWE via a heartfelt message on social media, expressing gratitude to fans, colleagues, and the WWE community.
Reason for Leaving: Reports indicate that Irvin and WWE could not reach an agreement regarding her involvement in external projects, leading to her decision to leave the company.
Notice Period: Contrary to some reports suggesting a sudden exit, Irvin clarified that she had informed WWE of her decision months in advance.
Immediate Replacement: Following her departure, WWE brought back veteran ring announcer Lilian Garcia to fill Irvin’s role on Monday Night Raw.
Personal Life: Irvin’s departure came after her fiancé Ricochet joined AEW. Despite speculation, both Irvin and Ricochet have said that she does not intend to join AEW.
Samantha Irvin’s unexpected departure from WWE took many by surprise, as have her comments about her views on ring announcing since her exit. This week, Irvin once again responded to a fan critical of what she’s had to say post-WWE and doesn’t believe she has ‘burned a bridge’ with the Sports Entertainment juggernaut.
Responding to an online commenter who said that Irvin and Ricochet have both burned bridges with WWE, Irvin said that she took to AI service Grok to find any proof of this.
So funny I asked Grok today what bad thing I said about WWE since I have no idea what everyone is talking about :)
Irvin later added that she tried to inject some personality into her role as a ring announcer with a comparison to the late comedy actor Robin Williams. Irvin believes those criticizing her now were hardly fans of her during her time with WWE which ended last month.
if people can’t see how I tried to sprinkle some Robin Williams on the announcing to make it something I could enjoy, they weren’t really seeing ME. They were just seeing an announcer- and so I can understand why me not liking memorizing stats and reciting match rules with no…
Some online commentators have taken issue with Irvin’s post-WWE comments, but here is what she has actually said:
In her initial farewell statement, Irvin shared love for the WWE fans and those working in the company. She said that she was grateful to Triple H for trusting her in the ring announcer role and that she was “proud to have used my voice” as part of WWE.
Irvin later clarified a false report about when she notified WWE of her exit. While the report said she only told WWE mere hours before an episode of Raw, Irvin actually informed higher-ups months earlier.
Irvin later said she didn’t like announcing, and had initially seen the role as a way into other WWE performances like a manager or GM. Irin made clear that she loves watching WWE action.
Irvin’s candidness sparked a backlash among some fans who believed Irvin was ungrateful to WWE for the opportunity to be an announcer. On the Insight podcast, Ricochet gave another reason behind the vitriol of some commenters online.
“I feel like she broke tradition. That’s why people are kind of upset. Because, again, how long was Fink doing it? How long did Lillian do it? Justin Roberts still doing it. The fact that she only did for four years and then she found out this isn’t what I was born to do.”
Ricochet added that Irvin’s decision to walk away from wrestling doesn’t just contrast with previous announcers, but also wrestlers.
“Look at Rey Mysterio and AJ Styles, because they’ve been doing it for so long, and they’re still in it, they’re still doing that. So I think especially when wrestling fans find something that makes them feel good and makes what they like watching better, they just want it forever.”
Irvin does not plan on joining AEW, as Ricochet himself has made clear to fans, and she reportedly intends to pursue other ventures in entertainment as well as music. Lilian Garcia has since returned to WWE as Raw’s ring announcer and has wished Irvin the best with her post-WWE ventures.
Ultimately, Irvin is pleased to have been a part of WWE, even if her career with WWE did not play out how she hoped. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on Samantha Irvin and her future outside of professional wrestling.
Samantha Irvin has parted ways with WWE after three years, during which she was praised by many, including Michael Buffer, for her work as a ring announcer. Currently, Lilian Garcia is announcing on Monday Night Raw, and whatever the future holds, Kayla Becker has no plans to return to the role.
Becker, known to wrestling fans as Kayla Braxton, was a ring announcer for WWE NXT in late 2016 but transitioned into being an interviewer the next year. Speaking to Triggered Wrestling, Becker made clear she’d turn down the offer to replace Irvin if asked.
“Do you know how much I hate ring announcing? Absolutely not. You know how that job is? Ring announcing is the most underrated job ever in the history of wrestling. It’s so difficult. It’s very stressful, and it makes your voice hoarse. So, no. I am not interested.”
Irvin similarly is looking to make her name outside of wrestling and is focusing on a wider career in entertainment. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on both Irvin and Becker both in and out of the world of professional wrestling.
Former WWE ring announcer Samantha Irvin says she didn’t like being a ring announcer and hoped to transition to a manager.
WWE ring announcer responded to questions about her departure on Instagram, and revealed that her plan was to use ring announcing as a stepping stone to being a manager and even an authority figure, if that opportunity had presented itself. She wanted more – from her outside entertainment projects, do her role in pro wrestling.
“I don’t like announcing,” she revealed on Instagram. “I’m serious! Announcing was only supposed to be my way in. I wanted to manage, maybe even become general manager one day. But WWE saw no other future for me besides announcer. I love watching the action but I don’t love being an announcer.”
Another user asked, “ur untalented husband did this huh,” Irvin replied that Ricochet’s success allows her the flexibility to quit a job she didn’t like.
“My husband is a millionaire so yes, I don’t have to do a job I don’t like anymore.”
When Samantha Irvin announced her exit from WWE earlier this week, fans quickly speculated on a move to AEW, where her fiancé Ricochet is currently competing. Given that part of Irvin’s decision to leave stemmed from her family life, it makes sense for her to at least consider an AEW role, but Tony Schiavone doesn’t see it happening.
On his What Happened When podcast, Schiavone gave his thoughts on Irvin possibly being All Elite and argued that the popular announcer isn’t needed in the company.
“We already got the best ring announcer in the world with Justin Roberts. And Arkady Aura is a great ring announcer, who’s a great person and is doing a great job. [Samantha Irvin] ain’t coming here. I wouldn’t think. And of course, I’ve been wrong so many times, but why would we?”
Later on, though, Schiavone did acknowledge that wrestling is unpredictable and seemingly didn’t count out Irvin making a surprise debut for the promotion.
“I could show up tonight in Salt Lake City and there she could be.”
For what it’s worth, Ricochet has said that his fiancée doesn’t intend to join, and it’s been reported that Samantha wants to explore her opportunities outside of pro wrestling. While AEW could make a move to sign Irvin, it appears that an All-Elite arrival isn’t on the cards, though we know to never say never in the world of pro wrestling. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on Samantha Irvin, and her moves both in and outside of wrestling.
Samantha Irvin shared this week that she has left WWE in a lengthy statement by the former Raw ring announcer posted on social media. Since then, a lot has been said about Irvin’s exit from WWE and the 35-year-old has clarified one false statement about her exit.
One report that has come out is that Irvin informed WWE mere hours before this week’s Monday Night Raw that she was leaving the promotion. On X, Irvin clarified that she informed WWE months ago, rather than hours before this week’s edition of the red brand.
Irvin joined WWE in 2021 on the recommendation of WWE Hall of Famer Mark Henry and was praised for her passionate, enthusiastic calls on TV and at PLEs. Following this year’s WrestleMania, where she announced every match, Irvin was praised by Michael Buffer, arguably the most recognized ring announcer in the history of combat sports.
Before arriving in WWE, Irvin was an accomplished flutist and singer and made a name for herself with an appearance on America’s Got Talent. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on Samantha Irvin both in the world of wrestling and beyond the squared circle.
On Instagram, Garcia shared her excitement to be back in WWE after years away and spoke of her nerves surrounding her first night back on the job.
”Well, now you know. Oh my gosh, guys did just happen? Did I just really go back to the WWE, after being gone for like 8 years? I mean, I’ve popped in every now and then but it’s been 8 years since I’ve been a full-time announcer there. My goodness, when my music hit and I got introduced, the cheers and applause that you gave me tonight, thank you for that.
“Because I was nervous, I could even tell I was nervous when I was announcing. But it is all worth, all worth taking a risk and a gamble and just coming back. Just seeing everyone, like the WWE Superstars, my friends, the crew and I’m excited and I’m strapping on my seatbelt for that.
Lilian also had a message for Samantha Irvin, and sees huge things in the future for the announcer she has replaced.
“Sam, I do wanna tell you, I think you’re an extraordinary talent and you’re unbelievable and I know it wasn’t easy to walk away from here and I wish you all the success in your music career, I know you’re gonna kill it. Okay WWE Universe I look forward to seeing you, signing your autographs, giving you high fives and all of that, I love you. I’m back home!”
Irvin and Garcia have often been compared, much to the delight of the former WWE Raw ring announcer who is now ready to spread her wings outside the company. Stay tuned to SEScoops for all the latest on Lilian Garcia now that she’s home in WWE once more.
Irvin was not released from WWE but chose to resign, PW Insider reports. WWE was reportedly made aware of her decision earlier in the day before she shared her statement to social media.
Fightful Select reports that those in WWE had high praise for Irvin, both before and after her announcement. One source described the 35-year-old as a “presence that made the work day better.” Those in WWE shared their surprise at the news, adding that she couldn’t have possibly informed everyone before leaving.
An AEW Future?
With her fiancé Ricochet debuting for AEW at All In: London in August, fans have naturally speculated as to whether Irvin could make the jump to reunite with her One and Only. Those in WWE and AEW said that they would be shocked if an attempt wasn’t made by AEW to bring her on board, considering Ricochet’s arrival in recent months. Many people in WWE expected her to leave the company after Ricochet did, pointing out the easier schedule for their family. Responding to a fan on X, Ricochet said Irvin is not joining AEW, and Irvin herself rejected the idea days before sharing that she was leaving WWE.
I will miss seeing your smiling face at work! I am so lucky to have shared the ring with you & even more lucky to have been a part of your iconic ring announcements ?? https://t.co/cCOxw2va0q
We all know Sam is a STAR, But she is also a wonderful person. One of the first to welcome me backstage and was always checking in to make sure the shy new girl was good.
It isn’t just those from the world of wrestling who are sad to see the back of Samantha Irvin as Michael Buffer also shared his reaction. The legendary boxing announcer praised Irvin after her work at this year’s WrestleMania 40 PLE.
NO!? My wife and I are so sorry to hear this as I’m sure millions of other @WWE fans are. Samantha is brilliant & super professional as announcer+her musical talent as a singer & flautist are amazing! All the best to her moving forward w/her career & perhaps we’ll see her in… https://t.co/ZzUD9XfjIj
Irvin joined WWE in 2021, at the recommendation of WWE Hall of Famer Mark Henry. Initially part of WWE 205 Live, Irvin rose quickly to the main roster and has announced on both Raw and SmackDown. Her enthusiastic calls for the likes of GUNTHER, Chelsea Green, and others quickly endeared her with fans who will miss her work each week.
We at SEScoops would like to wish Samantha the very best in whatever comes next for her in her career.
Before the October 21, edition of WWE Monday Night Raw went on the air, commentator Joe Tessitore shared that Lilian Garica is back in WWE and will be announcing for the red brand moving forward.
Unfortunately, Garcia showed a bit of rust on the show, as her first announcement of the evening saw an error. Ahead of a tag-team match, Garcia said the match was part of a tournament to determine the “Number one containers” for the World Tag Team Championships.
Garcia had been seen in Philadelphia before this week’s Raw, which led many to speculate that she would be replacing Samantha Irvin as the show’s ring announcer. Garcia was a part of WWE from 1999 to 2009 and had a second run from 2011 to 2019. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on Lillian Garcia now that she has once again returned to WWE.
Samantha Irvin has announced she’s no longer the ring announcer for WWE Raw, but teases that people should “stay tuned” for the next chapter of her professional career.
In a statement released Monday afternoon, she thanked WWE’s fans, Superstars, crew and the mentors who guided her on her journey. The word going around backstage at the Wells Fargo Center, site of tonight’s WWE Raw, is genuine shock over this high-profile departure.
Irvin was with WWE for four years before announcing her departure on October 21, 2024. After initially pursuing a career as a pro wrestler and participating in tryouts at the Performance Center, she was signed in April 2021 as a ring announcer for WWE 205 Live. She quickly climbed the ranks, first to NXT and then to WWE SmackDown in January 2022. The following year, she was moved to the Raw brand, where she’s worked ever since.
Her impassioned delivery on the microphone, her engaging personality and musical talents made her a fan favorite over the past several years.
“WWE Universe, my time has come to an end as your Monday Night Raw Ring Announcer. I love you all tremendously, and this does not mark the end of my art; I have a lifetime more to share. Thank you to every WWE fan who accepted me.
To the Women’s Locker Room: you are the most incredible group of people on the face of this Earth. I am beyond proud to be your colleague and friend.
To the Crew & Cameramen: I can’t thank you enough for the encouragement, the laughs. You created such a wonderful, positive atmosphere for me. Love you all.
To the WWE Superstars, past and present: I have thanked you since 1989 and will continue to thank you for the rest of my days for entertaining us. For raising the bar over and over again. For risking your bodies and finding new ways to keep us shocked and wanting more.
There is no form of entertainment like this, and not just any entertainer can be a WWE Superstar. The respect I have for you is more than I can express. Thank you for making it so easy to pour emotion and excitement into your introductions.
You are the stars that the stars idolize. It doesn’t get any bigger, and I’m proud to have used my voice to let the world know it.
Thank you Paul Heyman, Michael PS Hayes, and Michael Cole. I will continue to apply what I learned from you to every aspect of my career. Thank you for invigorating my creativity.
Thank you Brian “Road Dogg” James, Scott Armstrong, Gabe Sapolsky, and George Carroll Jr. for giving me my first opportunities to rise to the occasion. Thank you to HHH for trusting me and showcasing me on this platform. Thank you Mark Henry for giving me my big break. I hope I made you proud.
Thank you to all the Coaches, Producers, Medical, Writers, Talent Relations, Makeup, Photography, Social Media, Digital, Travel Department, Catering, Merch, 2K Team, Referees, Security, and Announce Team for everything you did to help me along the way.
To my fans: My entire career I’ve been waiting for you! We are meant to be, and I can prove it. Stay tuned.
All my love! And still…
Samantha”
Samantha Irvin moving on to the next chapter of her career
Samantha Irvin’s time as a WWE Raw ring announcer has come to end, via a lengthy statement shared on social media. On Instagram, Irvin shared her news and had plenty of thanks to those who have helped her along the way.
WWE Universe, my time has come to an end as your Monday Night Raw Ring Announcer. I love you all tremendously and this does not mark the end of my art, I have a lifetime more to share. Thank you to every WWE fan who accepted me.
To the Women’s Locker Room: you are the most incredible group of people on the face of this Earth. I am beyond proud to be your colleague and friend.
To the Crew & Cameramen: I can’t thank you enough for the encouragement, the laughs. You created such a wonderful positive atmosphere for me. Love you all.
To the WWE Superstars, past and present: I have thank you since 1989 and will continue to thank you for the rest of my days for entertaining us. For raising the bar over and over again. For risking your bodies and finding new ways to keep us shocked and wanting more. There is no form of entertainment like this and not just any entertainer can be a wwe Superstar. The respect I have for you is more than I can express. Thank you for making it so easy to pour emotion and excitement into your introductions. You are the stars that the stars idolize. It doesn’t get any bigger and I’m proud to have used my voice to let the world know it.
Thank you Paul Heyman, Michael PS Hayes & Michael Cole. I will continue to apply what I learned from you to every aspect of my career. Thank you for invigorating my creativity.
Thank you Brian ‘Road Dogg’ James, Scott Armstrong, Gabe Sapolsky, and George Carroll Jr. for giving me my first opportunities to rise to the occasion.
Thank you to HHH for trusting me and showcasing me on this platform.
Thank you Mark Henry for giving me my big break. I hope I made you proud.
Thank you to all the Coaches, Producers, Medical, Writers, Talent Relations, Makeup, Photography, Social Media, Digital, Travel, Department, Catering, Merch, 2K Team, Referees, Security and Announce Team for everything you did to help me along the way.
To my fans, my entire career I’ve been waiting for you! We are meant to be and I can prove it. Stay tuned.
All my love! And still…
Samantha.
Many of those in the comments took Irvin’s statement as a sign of her exit, not just from the role of Raw’s announcer, but from the entire WWE. At this time, Irvin has not confirmed that she is leaving WWE, nor did she specify any role in the company outside of her recent announcing duties. Irvin has removed all references to WWE in the bio of her Instagram and X accounts.
Irvin joined WWE in 2021, initially as the ring announcer of 205 Live, but her skills behind the mic would see her moved to the main roster the following year. At this year’s WrestleMania, Irvin announced 14 matches and was praised by announcing icon Michael Buffer after the Showcase of the Immortals. Stay tuned to SEScoops for all the latest on Samantha Irvin and the next chapter of her career.
Week 6 of the NFL had one WWE Hall of Famer stopping by the forthcoming WrestleMania 41 grounds in Las Vegas and an AEW star becoming the “Twelfth Man” for his homestate Seattle Seahawks. Plus there’s some “mojo” going down with Rob Gronkowski and the actor playing him. Let’s kick it off.
Rey Mysterio Rocks Raiders Silver & Black
While last week’s write-up showcased the Steelers heavily, this week we have Rey Mysterio to thank for the spotlight being shown on their opponent in the Las Vegas Raiders. WWE is revving up to crash the Las Vegas strip next year at WrestleMania 41, but before they do they teased the fans a little with a special appearance by Mysterio, Titus O’Neil and Samatha Irvin (who actually sang the national anthem before the game).
Mysterio took photos before kickoff with some of the players and later with the fans, but it wasn’t enough for them to thwart Pittsburgh, who made Aidan O’Connell and the Raider offense walk the plank 32-13.
Pro wrestling became a factor in the very first game of week six when the Seattle Seahawks battled NFC East rival San Francisco in a Thursday night game. Considering AEW was in the area for their upcoming WrestleDream PPV on Saturday, AEW pillar Darby Allin popped by complete with his signature pink jacket. However, it was the 49ers who put the Coffin Drop on Seattle by winning 36-24.
Mojo Rawley ‘Gets Hyped’ For Gronk Actor In ‘Aaron Hernandez: American Sports Story’
Mojo Rawley (Dean Muhtadi) may not be grappling it up in the ring at the moment, but the former WWE star keeps busy being a notable TMZ personality. Rawley had some fun news to talk about this week as family and friendship collided this week in a viral moment involving FX’s dark story behind deceased NFL tight end, Aaron Hernandez. The show has created a lot of buzz with the portrayals of notable NFL names like Bill Belicheck and Robert Kraft, but a shining star is the one actor playing Rob Gronkowski.
Gronk notoriously has a history with WWE and is a former teammate of the aformentioned Rawley at the University of Maryland. However, both have ties to the actor playing Gronk, Laith Wallschleger. Laith is a former D1 from the University of Delaware (alma mater of Joe Flacco – Blue Hens!) before spending some time in the NFL until making the trip to Hollywood. He now finds steady work as a stuntman, voice actor and now got eyes as Gronkowski. During an interview with Kay Adams, Gronkowski actually revealed that Wallschleger is his acting double for everything he does and the two are good friends. Rawley noted that Laith is actually his cousin!
The good vibes from Laith didn’t translate for the actual Patriots on the field this week as they got stampeded by the Houston Texans 41-21.
Trevor Lee Celebrates A Ravens Win
Trevor Lee is currently a free agent in the world of pro wrestling, but he was flying to the moon during the Baltimore Ravens game against in-state adversary the Washington Commanders. For many, the game may have been tighter than expected, but the Ravens rode the legs Derrick Henry who trounced the Commanders in an effort to win by just a touchdown. Lee had a video of himself celebrating at the game following the team’s fourth straight win.
Lilian Garcia made a return to WWE television during the May 13 episode of RAW. She received an amazing homecoming from fans as she filled in for guest announcing duties.
During Garcia’s appearance, she expressed her pride in Samantha Irvin, who had introduced her. Garcia then introduced Kofi Kingston for his match against GUNTHER in the quarterfinals of the 2024 King of the Ring tournament.
Prior to her appearance, Lilian released a backstage video of herself and Samantha. They were very happy to see each other as they prepared for the night’s show.
This was a fitting appearance for Garcia, as it took place on the day after Mother’s Day. Samantha Irvin posted a photo posing with the legendary WWE ring announcer, proclaiming that this counts as her photo to celebrate the Mother’s Day.
— Samantha (The Bomb) (@SamanthaTheBomb) May 13, 2024
Lilian Garcia’s WWE Departure
In 2016, during her second tenure with WWE, Garcia’s father was battling cancer. This situation led her to leave her full-time role as a WWE ring announcer to spend more time with her ailing father.
After leaving WWE, Lilian Garcia started hosting two podcasts, “Making Their Way to the Ring” and the Spanish-language “Luchando Con Lilian Garcia,” both distributed by Maria Menounos’ AfterBuzz TV network. On July 31, 2017, Garcia launched her new podcast, “Chasing Glory with Lilian Garcia.”
Despite her nearly ten-year absence from WWE, Garcia remains beloved within the company.
