Corey Graves on Carmella’s WWE Departure: A Shift in Priorities and Family Life
Corey Graves, WWE commentator and husband to former WWE Superstar Carmella, recently opened up about the impact of Carmella’s departure from the company. Her contract expired in February 2025 and wasn’t renewed, a decision that initially surprised them both, but ultimately proved to be a positive turning point for their family.
A Blessing in Disguise
Graves described the situation as a “blessing in disguise,” allowing Carmella to pursue other projects and dedicate more time to their growing family. She now has two sons, with the most recent born in October. This shift has enabled a reset in routines and priorities for both of them.
Finding Balance: Perform and Family
One of the most significant benefits of Carmella stepping away from WWE has been the improved work-life balance for Graves. He admitted to being a workaholic and struggling to disconnect from wrestling, even during personal time. The constant discussion of wrestling at home created a “messy blur” between his professional and personal life.
Now, Graves finds it easier to abandon work at the arena. He explained that walking through the door at home is no longer immediately followed by conversations about the latest WWE events. This separation allows him to focus on being a husband and father.
Carmella’s Future and the Question of a Return
Whereas Graves acknowledges Carmella’s passion for wrestling, he emphasized that any decision regarding a potential return to the ring is entirely hers. He declined to speculate on her behalf, stating simply, “You’ll have to ask her. I can give you what I think, but I don’t want to speak for her. I think time will tell.”
The Evolving Landscape of WWE Talent Management
Carmella’s departure reflects a broader trend within WWE and the professional wrestling industry. The acquisition of Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide by WWE last year, and Graves’ promotion as the voice of the organization, demonstrates the company’s expansion into new markets and content creation. This expansion, coupled with the demands of a year-round schedule, may lead to more talent prioritizing personal lives and exploring opportunities outside of full-time WWE contracts.
The Impact on Dual-Career Wrestling Couples
The Graves-Carmella situation offers a case study for other dual-career wrestling couples. Balancing the rigorous demands of the industry with family life is a significant challenge. Their experience highlights the importance of open communication, mutual support, and a willingness to adapt to changing circumstances.
FAQ
Q: Why did Carmella leave WWE?
A: Carmella’s contract expired in February 2025 and was not renewed.
Q: Is Corey Graves still with WWE?
A: Yes, Corey Graves continues to work for WWE as a commentator and is similarly the voice of Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide.
Q: Will Carmella return to wrestling?
A: The decision is entirely up to Carmella, and Corey Graves has stated that “time will tell.”
Q: How many children do Corey Graves and Carmella have?
A: They have two sons.
Did you know? Corey Graves originally transitioned to broadcasting due to recurring concussion issues during his time as a professional wrestler.
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