Breaking: Justin Roberts Released by WWE

Not too long after the Oct. 13 showing of “Monday Night Raw,” WWE made an announcement which shocked all wrestling fans alike. WWE announced on its website that it would not be renewing the contract of long-time ring announcer Justin Roberts. With WWE not picking up his option, Roberts was released, effective immediately.

Roberts had been with WWE since 2002. He began by flipping around some of WWE’s prominent programs in “ECW,” “Smackdown,” and “Monday Night Raw.” Roberts reached the highest of highs in 2008, when he served as the ring announcer for the main event match of WrestleMania XXIV, The Undertaker vs. Edge.

Later that year, Roberts would become the ring announcer of “Monday Night Raw,” and began to serve the same role for WWE’s pay-per-view events. Roberts, 34-years-old, has been a wrestling fan throughout his entire life. He first tried his hand at ring announcing as early as age 16.

For now, not much is known as to why WWE did not decide to renew Roberts’ contract. The company’s continued budget cuts and talent releases come to mind as possible reasons, but nothing is definitive. Similarly, long-time commentator Josh Mathews was released in June of this year. Mathews’ release was reportedly for financial purposes, in addition to his low-ranking in regards to the announce team, who had recently welcomed new members like Renee Young.

Editor’s Note

Wow. Roberts will not be out of work long. Completely stunning move by WWE.