Partial Source: The Wrestling Observer Newsletter
As seen at the top of last night’s RAW broadcast, WWE debuted a modified montage video. Among the changes were “Classy” Freddie Blassie, Buddy Rogers, Gorgeous George and Harley Race being added, but the most striking change was the removal of the voice of Jim Ross in favor of RAW announcer Michael Cole. Ross was unaware of the change, which he noted last night on Twitter.
Ross was reportedly removed from the opening video montage as punishment for appearing on camera at UFC’s 116 pay-per-view event in Las Vegas two weeks ago. Ross was interviewed on camera by Ariel Helwani of AOL Fanhouse following Brock Lesnar’s victory over Shane Carwin.
While Steve Austin, Bill Goldberg and Paul Heyman were interviewed as well, Ross is the only one currently under contract to WWE and thus decision was made to make an example out of him.
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WWE: Santino Marella on Potential WWE Appearance at Clash In Italy Would Be “Full Circle Moment”, Stephanie Vaquer Shoulder Injury & Return Plans Update, Several WWE Talents Announced for UFC Freedom 250 Fan Fest Event
WWE RAW Notes: Jacob Fatu vs. Roman Reigns in Tribal Combat for WWE World Title Set for Clash In Italy, Sol Ruca vs. Becky Lynch and WWE Women’s Tag Titles Matches Set for 5/23 WWE SNME, LA Knight Appears, Brock Lesnar Surprise Return & Sets Challenge to Oba Femi for Clash In Italy
WWE NXT Notes: Tristan Angels, Mason Rook, & Kam Hendrix Makes NXT In-Ring Debuts, DarkState Turns Heel on Saquon Shugars & Kicks Him Out of Group, Izzi Dame vs. Lola Vice for NXT Women’s Title and More for 5/26 Show Card
