WWE Hall of Famer Jerry Lawler was suspended indefinitely on Friday, June 17 following his arrest for domestic assault. According to the latest rumors, Lawler may end up being fired from the company and Cory Graves will be one to replace him on the SmackDown commentary team.
The King has been a color commentator in the WWE since 1993 and has been one of the prominent voices in wrestling. However, his recent arrest for domestic violence may lead to his firing as the WWE seems to distance itself from major controversies.
According to Forbes, Lawler and his fiancé Lauryn McBride were arrested on early Friday morning after getting involved in a confrontation at the wrestler's home in Memphis. The two had different stories so the police booked them both for domestic violence.
The 66-year-old has been living with his 27-year-old girlfriend for five years. It should be noted that the Adam Rose was released from his contract after a domestic violence arrest in May. The WWE also removed Hulk Hogan from its history after leaked racial tirade in a sex tape last year.
Lawler has jeopardized his career in the WWE as a commentator with his recent arrest as the WWE is very cautious in terms of its press relations for the past couple of years. He will surely be fired if he is convicted of a domestic violence charge.
The WWE will have its brand extension next month with SmackDown having its own distinct roster, as well as a commentary team. According to DailyDDT, NXT color commentator Corey Graves should replace Lawler on SmackDown.
The former NXT star's wrestling career was cut short due concussions but he was hired to become a commentator. He has proven himself as a great heel commentator and he would be perfect alongside Mauro Ranallo.
Besides his NXT gig, Graves is also doing work as an analyst for the Monday Night Raw and pay-per-view pre-shows. The Raw announce team is likely set with Michael Cole, John "Bradshaw" Layfield and Byron Saxton.
On the other hand, Ranallo will be the only commentator on SmackDown if Lawler is still suspended when the show airs live on July 19. A commentary team of Ranallo and Graves is what the majority of the internet wrestling community wants.
Check out the video below for some additional details on Lawler and McBride's arrest.