WWE commentator Corey Graves has publicly voiced his frustration over being demoted back to NXT. The announcement came as part of WWE's recent commentary team reshuffling, coinciding with WWE RAW's move to Netflix.
Imagine chasing your dream.
— Corey Graves (@WWEGraves) January 14, 2025
Then being TOLD (not deciding) that you’re no longer physically able to pursue your dream.
Then you dedicate your life to something “dream adjacent” and being pretty fucking awesome at it.
And then, when it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor,…
Graves, who transitioned to commentary after a successful in-ring career as Sterling James Keenan, has become one of WWE's most recognizable voices. Despite his success, Graves has found himself back on the developmental show NXT, working alongside Vic Joseph and WWE Hall of Famer Booker T.
In a candid social media post, Graves expressed his disappointment, stating,
"Imagine chasing your dream. Then being TOLD (not deciding) that you’re no longer physically able to pursue your dream. Then you dedicate your life to something 'dream adjacent' and being pretty f**king awesome at it. And then, when it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor, being told you’re not famous enough for your own job. Just in case you’ve wondered where I’ve been."
Graves' frustration stems from WWE's decision to bring back Pat McAfee to the RAW commentary team, which led to Graves being moved from SmackDown to NXT. Graves has been a staple of WWE programming, known for his consistency and dedication. His recent comments suggest he feels underappreciated and overlooked despite his prominent role.
The move to NXT marks a significant shift for Graves, who has worked his way up from the developmental brand to the main roster. His journey has been marked by resilience and adaptability, but the recent demotion has clearly struck a chord with him.
As WWE continues to adjust its commentary teams, it remains to be seen how Graves' situation will unfold. His public venting has sparked discussions among fans and industry insiders alike, with many expressing support for the veteran commentator.
What are your thoughts on Corey Graves' situation? Do you think WWE should reconsider his position on the main roster?
