Report: WWE & Adnan Virk Both Knew It Wasn't Working Out

More details on Adnan Virk and WWE's "mutual agreement" following Raw departure.

Adnan Virk
WWE.com

WWE and Adnan Virk both knew the latter's role as Raw announcer wasn't working out early into their relationship, reports Fightful Select.

Virk left the promotion earlier this week, with WWE claiming the two parties had "mutually agreed to part ways" in their announcement. Per Fightful, the company wanted an amicable split, though the outlet's sources have indicated that WWE was going to do this regardless.

The promotion had reportedly made its mind up prior to this week's episode of Raw, which was Virk's last show on the announce team.

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Virk, a former ESPN broadcaster, had served as a Raw commentator since the 12 April episode. He and Corey Graves stepped in to replace Tom Phillips and the outgoing Samoa Joe, which was released from the company a few days later, with Byron Saxton completing the three-man team.

Fightful note that WWE had Virk's replacement lined up by Tuesday, though there was no word on who they were bringing in at the time. This is now confirmed to be former Bellator and UFC broadcaster Jimmy Smith.

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Virk remains active in sports media through his roles with DAZN, NHL Network, and MLB Network.

Channel Manager
Channel Manager

Andy has been with WhatCulture for eight years and is currently WhatCulture's Wrestling Channel Manager. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.