Kemo
02-18-2016, 12:55 AM
As we reported last night, Michael Cole filled in for Maruo Ranallo at this week’s SmackDown taping. Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer reported today that Ranallo was in fact backstage at the show, and was sick with the flu.
He appeared sick enough that WWE reportedly made the decision to send Ranallo home right away. Cole is usually backstage at SmackDown anyways, so WWE had him work as play-by-play announcer, with Jerry Lawler at Bryon Saxton on color commentary.
Ranallo started as the lead announcer for SmackDown in January, when the show moved to the USA Network. He’s expected to be back at next week’s taping.
I appreciate the concern. I was sent home from Smackdown taping suffering from the flu. Still in bed but getting better. THANKS!
— Mauro Ranallo (@mauroranallo) February 17, 2016
He appeared sick enough that WWE reportedly made the decision to send Ranallo home right away. Cole is usually backstage at SmackDown anyways, so WWE had him work as play-by-play announcer, with Jerry Lawler at Bryon Saxton on color commentary.
Ranallo started as the lead announcer for SmackDown in January, when the show moved to the USA Network. He’s expected to be back at next week’s taping.
I appreciate the concern. I was sent home from Smackdown taping suffering from the flu. Still in bed but getting better. THANKS!
— Mauro Ranallo (@mauroranallo) February 17, 2016