This is a bummer.
Not necessarily for Mauro Ranallo, who continues to live his best life calling pro wrestling for NXT, MMA for Bellator and boxing for Showtime, all while advocating for mental health awareness. But for graps fans who were hoping to hear a few “Mama Mia!”s on Saturday night when the black-and-yellow brand takes over Chicago.
I’m blessed to have more than one job. Unfortunately,dates may conflict. Off to Dallas for a @ShowtimeBoxing tripleheader . That means I won’t be in Chicago for #NXTTakeOver You’ll be in good hands with @VicJosephWWE @McGuinnessNigel & @WWEPercyWatson
— Mauro Ranallo (@mauroranallo) June 14, 2018
If you watch 205 Live (and you should, if you like impressive displays of athleticism and well constructed fictional combat sports drama) you know Vic Joseph is a steady hand who shows a lot of promise. He’s comfortable working with Nigel McGuinness and Percy Watson (and having Triple H in his ear, probably) from working that show. Getting the chance to call one of NXT’s live specials is a huge opportunity for the young football announcer from Cleveland. And fans of the sweet science are fortunate to have Ranallo on a Dallas card headlined by a showdown of undefeated knockout artists, as welterweight champ Errol Spence, Jr. defends against Carlos Ocampo.
Still, Gargano/Ciampa II won’t be the same without the Bipolar Rock ‘n‘ Roller over-emoting about Tommy Sports Entertainment’s vile acts of depravity.