Samantha Irvin, the voice behind “WWE Raw” on the USA Network, announced on social media platform X that she will be stepping down as the show’s ring announcer. In her message, Irvin expressed her love for her fans and reassured them that this decision does not signify the end of her career, stating, “I have a lifetime more to share.”
While Irvin did not disclose her reasons for leaving, she expressed gratitude towards the WWE community, including the female roster, the Raw production team, Chief Content Officer Paul “Triple H” Levesque, and the talented wrestlers. “There is no form of entertainment like this and not just any entertainer can be a WWE Superstar,” she wrote, emphasizing the unique nature of WWE and her pride in using her voice to showcase the talent of its performers.
Samantha Irvin, born Samantha Johnson in Dennis and raised in New Bedford, began her journey in the entertainment industry as a semi-finalist on Season 10 of “America’s Got Talent.” She showcased her singing talents and flute skills on shows like FOX’s “I Can See Your Voice” and later performed in Cirque du Soleil and “Vegas! The Show,” where she portrayed Tina Turner.
In 2021, she realized her dream of working with WWE as the ring announcer for “205 Live” on Peacock. Irvin, a longtime fan of pro wrestling, previously mentioned in an interview how she would avidly watch WWE shows and keep match notes as a child. She eventually moved to “WWE SmackDown” and transitioned to “WWE Raw” in 2023.
Her role at WrestleMania 40, held in April at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, earned her high praise. Legendary announcer Michael Buffer remarked on her outstanding performance, highlighting her impressive timing and energy.
Following her departure from WWE, questions arise about her next steps. Irvin is engaged to professional wrestler Trevor Dean Mann, known as Ricochet, who recently joined the rival promotion All Elite Wrestling. While she did not confirm plans to join him there, she concluded her announcement with a teasing message to her fans: “Stay tuned…”