10 Wrestling Facts We Didn't Know Last Week (Jan 16)

5. Renee Young Got Mauro Ranallo Hired For Smackdown Gig

Before joining WWE, Mauro Ranallo was best known as the voice of the Pride mixed martial arts organisation for many years. Even before then, he had announced pro wrestling, working for companies like Stampede Wrestling and All-Star Wrestling in Canada. A Canadian native, he is now the lead announcer on Thursday Night Smackdown. The chance to work in WWE took Ranallo by surprise, because he didn't think he was a good fit for the promotion. Revealing that fact via Twitter, the commentator also stated that he had Renee Young to thank for landing a contract with Vince McMahon's grappling powerhouse. She was the one who recommended him in the first place. For years, WWE have been interested in signing up new announcers. It seems they also enjoy the idea of 'stealing' talent from the grasp of MMA, because they were once linked with UFC broadcaster Mike Goldberg. In Ranallo, they finally have their man, and it's expected he will be the 'voice of Smackdown' for years to come. He has Renee Young to thank for that one.