Here’s the Specific Reason Lawler Was Removed From WWE Pre-Shows

The removal of both Jerry Lawler and Lita from WWE’s pre-shows was sudden and unexpected. We could partly attribute it to the recent shortening of weekly pre-shows, but we couldn’t really speculate on the exact reason for the removal–especially from the lengthy PPV warm-up programs.

While we’re not clear on the reason for Lita’s removal, Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer says that Lawler’s disappearance is the final step in a long move to pull the King from WWE programming. The reason? Age.

Lawler, at the age of 67, is past the age Vince thinks people want to see on TV. The same reasoning was part of Jim Ross’ dismissal from the company. His transition from Raw to SmackDown, and then to the pre-show, was a long transition to remove him from regular TV appearances entirely.

Both Lawler and Lita have transitioned to Legends contracts. They might be called in for special events, but neither has a full-time position with the company. Lawler could continue to host the Hall of Fame ceremony around WrestleMania time.

It seems Lita’s WWE ties have been severed almost entirely, and it looks like we shouldn’t expect her to make another appearance anytime soon.

While Lawler had some revitalizing moments alongside Mauro Ranallo on SmackDown, it was clear that his best moments on commentary were behind him. Even if the age issue might be unfair, it was certainly time for fresh voices on WWE’s pre-shows and regular programming.