A new voice will resound through the SmackDown arena, gesturing a fresh chapter for the blue brand. WWE has officially announced Mark Shunock as the new ring announcer, bringing a well-being of experience from boxing and administrative sports. This move introduces a
dose of Vegas flair into Friday nights, promising an induced atmosphere for fans
worldwide.
Table of Contents
Background
Shunock’s work history speaks volumes. He’s not a newcomer to the microphone. He
has served as a host and announcer for Top Rank Boxing on ESPN, demonstrating his
ability to command attention in high-post sporting events. Beyond boxing, he’s a familiar figure in Las Vegas.
As the Vice President of Entertainment as well as host for the Vegas Golden Knights, he’s been instrumental in making a better atmosphere at their games. In Addition to this, his voice has better echo through loyal Stadium as the in-arena host for the Las Vegas Raiders.
WWE Context of smackDown
The ring announcer plays an important role in setting the stage for every SmackDown match, building in the expectation as well as excitement. With Shunock’s indicated success, WWE targets to increase the show’s presentation.
His experience in making engagements during the show with large crowds, as well as supplying high-dynamic announcements, makes him a perfect fit for the dynamic world of professional wrestling. This change comes as WWE continues to improve its outcome and presentation, and this take on highlights that goal.
Fan Reactions
Early reactions from fans online have been mixed, with some adding a fresh voice and
others expressing sentiment for previous announcers. However, there is a harmony
of spirit of inquiry, and many are looking forward to seeing how Shunock unify into the
SmackDown environment.
Will his experience with the Golden Knights translate to the passionate WWE Universe? Only time will tell. Social media is filled with reactions from the WWE universe. Many fans are excited to see what new energy, and Mark will bring to Friday night.
Lilian Garcia became a full-time ring announcer at WWE
During the year 2024, the month of October, Lilian Gracia came back to her position, after that Irvin, a shocking exit from WWE, made a ring announcement for SmackDown. But she recently decided to step down as a full-time ring announcer. However, she will continue to work on some shows and Live Events.
Samantha Irvin got marriage
Samantha Irvin got engaged a long ago to Ricochet in January 2023. At that time, Samantha was in WWE continuing as the lead ring announcer back then. Ricochet, was working as an active member of the talent roster in WWE. He later left the company in search of better opportunities elsewhere.
Ricochet was seen in a taped video of AEW dynamite in St.paul, MN., which was made live on 26th of March, of this year after the match between Omega and Blake. In that video, he mentioned about not being in the Twin Cities, as he was away due to his wedding with Samantha Irvin.
Samantha also left WWE shortly after Ricochet. She was the ring announcer for SmackDown just before her exit and was replaced by Lilian Garcia. It was speculated that Ricochet’s departure had a rile in her WWE exit. However, Ricochet denied the rumors on an episode of Insight with Chris Van Vliet.
Samantha Irvin’s Life after leaving WWE

During February of this year, after leaving WWE, Samantha Irvin refocused on her musical career. And she got the stage name “Samantha The Bomb”. Later she announced her new release of her album, named Make Me. She mentioned about her aspirations to work as an onscreen manager during her time in WWE, but that did not happen. As of now, Samantha has no interest in returning back to WWE.
Congratulations to Samantha Irvin and Ricochet from all of us here at fightmaniacs.com.
[…] left months later. The high flying superstar joined AEW and the former WWE ring announcer is now pursuing her musical […]