WWE made some huge changes to commentary, and they've been in the works for a while.
Fightful was told heading into October that possible changes to the commentary team were looming. With the loss of Pat McAfee, WWE was already looking for a permanent replacement, and we're told they had decided to make some other moves. Now-former Raw commentator Jimmy Smith even noted that he realized on Monday he would be fired.
To reiterate, Jimmy Smith is completely done with the company, and was relieved of his duties as opposed to his deal running out. Most in the company felt he acclimated well considering he wasn't a big wrestling guy heading into his deal.
There were some other considerations for the commentary roles, and WWE even looked at some reels for outside options. We're told that the decision to move away from three-person booths was made, and that any of these choices could adjust based on the success of the teams, and they're not expecting to "force chemistry" if it doesn't work out. Everyone that WWE adjusted was under contract already, with the exception of Cathy Kelley, who was highly regarded among the new regime and sought out.
We're told by WWE sources that they'll still work with Pat McAfee "whenever he is available and wants to," and that he's incredibly well liked within the company.
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