Alicia Taylor, the beloved ring announcer from NXT, is making the leap to the main roster with her upcoming role on SmackDown. Known for her unique announcing style and heavy metal influences, Taylor’s call-up has been celebrated within the WWE community. NXT Creative Head Shawn Michaels confirmed the news on X, expressing his appreciation for Taylor’s contributions and his excitement for her new opportunity.
Shawn Michaels Announces Taylor’s Promotion
Following reports that Taylor would join the SmackDown team, Michaels took to X to share the news. He praised Taylor’s work in NXT, calling her an “irreplaceable part” of the brand and thanking her for the “countless unforgettable moments” she helped create. Michaels added that he’s thrilled to see her bring her “unending passion” to SmackDown.
To honor Taylor’s promotion, NXT held a farewell gathering after the most recent episode, with on-air personnel, wrestlers, and the broadcast team assembling to bid her goodbye. Michaels also shared a video clip showing the moment the NXT locker room learned about Taylor’s move to the main roster.
Taylor’s Journey to SmackDown
Alicia Taylor’s journey to WWE’s main roster has been shaped by her unique background and style. Before joining WWE, Taylor was a drummer with a notable career in the music industry, playing for artists like Kate Nash, Kelly Osbourne, and Selena Gomez. This heavy metal background heavily influences her voice and announcing style, contributing to her popularity in NXT.
Taylor signed with WWE in 2018 and quickly became a staple in NXT, serving as the lead ring announcer for several years. While she has occasionally filled in on the main roster, her new role on SmackDown marks her permanent move to the blue brand.
Mike Rome Returns to NXT
With Alicia Taylor’s promotion to SmackDown, changes in the ring announcer lineup follow. Mike Rome, who has been a long-standing figure on SmackDown, will return to NXT. Samantha Irvin will continue her duties on Raw, ensuring continuity across the WWE roster. The reshuffling also marks a historic moment, as this is the first time WWE’s main roster will feature two Black women announcers, with Taylor joining Irvin.
A New Era for SmackDown
Alicia Taylor’s move to SmackDown represents an exciting new chapter for the WWE Universe. Her unique energy and style are expected to bring a fresh dynamic to the blue brand. As Taylor begins her new role, her fans from NXT and beyond eagerly anticipate the impact she’ll make on SmackDown.
As WWE continues to evolve, Alicia Taylor’s promotion is a testament to her talent and hard work. It also signifies WWE’s commitment to fostering diversity and inclusivity in its main roster. With Taylor’s background and distinctive style, the future looks bright for both SmackDown and Taylor’s career in WWE.
