Corey Graves Told He Isn't "Famous Enough" To Keep Raw Position (WWE News)
Corey Graves is seemingly unhappy at his recent move back to NXT.
As part of recent changes to the main roster commentary teams, Corey Graves last week saw himself moved to NXT for the foreseeable future. And for those wondering what the Saviour of Misbehaviour thought of this move, it appears he's not too happy with how things have played out.
Taking to X, Graves referenced how he had his in-ring dream taken away from him - that would be down to concussion issues - and so he instead became "pretty f**king awesome" at commentary. Now, Corey's been "told [he's] not famous enough for [his] own job" - indicating some unhappiness from the 40-year-old Pittsburgh native.
Imagine chasing your dream.
Then being TOLD (not deciding) that you’re no longer physically able to pursue your dream.
Then you dedicate your life to something “dream adjacent” and being pretty fucking awesome at it.
And then, when it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor,…Advertisement— Corey Graves (@WWEGraves) January 14, 2025
For those who may have missed it, WWE Raw's switch to Netflix last week saw Michael Cole and Pat McAfee become the red brand's new commentary team, while Joe Tessitore and Wade Barrett have switched over to SmackDown.
Previously, Cole and Corey Graves had been calling the SmackDown action for the past several months, but with the return of McAfee, the decision has been made to pair Pat and Cole together as a double act once again. As a result, Corey Graves has joined Vic Joseph and Booker T on the call for NXT.
In addition to Corey's X post, Mike Johnson over at PWInsider reports that there have been rumblings for the past several weeks that Corey Graves wasn't happy with his on-screen "positioning" with WWE. This latest social media post would certainly seem to back that up.
From Wrestler To Commentator
Under his Sterling James Keenan moniker, Corey Graves made quite the name for himself on the independent scene in the 2000s, even going 3-0 over CM Punk during those days. A few enhancement match appearances for WWE would eventually be followed by the talent formally signing with the market leader in 2011, taking on the Corey Graves name and being assigned to FCW.
Of course, FCW would become NXT, and Graves would be positioned as one of the developmental brand's can't-miss breakout stars, being in the mix with the likes of Seth Rollins, Bray Wyatt, and Sami Zayn. That time would also see Corey have a three-month NXT Tag Team Title run with Adrian Neville. The point being, it seemed like it was only a matter of time before Corey Graves would be one of those NXT success stories who make it to the main roster and make their mark.
Unfortunately, an appearance on the NXT TakeOver: R Evolution pre-show in December 2014 had Corey reveal he'd had to retire from in-ring competition due to concussion issues, and that he would instead now transition to a role at the NXT commentary desk. After proving to be a natural in his new role, Graves would be moved to the Raw announce team by the middle of 2016, and he's since bounced between Raw and SmackDown, in addition to being a part of various PLE pre-shows and talking heads broadcasts.
While he's excelled as a snarky colour commentator, offering expert analysis and bringing plenty of quick wit to the table, Corey Graves actually confirmed back in 2022 that he'd been medically cleared to return to the ring should he so choose. As Graves has noted on several occasions, he's open to lacing up his boots again, but it would need to be the right time and for the right reason.
As it stands, Corey is set to be a part of tonight's NXT broadcast, where he'll again be calling the action alongside Vic Joseph and Booker T.