Booker T has addressed speculation linking him with a the now vacant position at the SmackDown announce booth.
On September 7th it was reported that Pat McAfee had landed a new full-time role with ESPN’s College GameDay team.
His first assignment will be the clash between Alabama Crimson Tide versus Texas Longhorns on September 10th.
Since becoming colour commentator on SmackDown in April 2021, alongside Michael Cole, the star has become a favourite among fans for his child-like enthusiasm and high-energy style. However, following the announcement of his new gig, it was revealed that he would now be taking a break from the blue brand before returning in January.
Following the news WWE employee and former announcer Booker T shared a photo of himself on social media from his days at the commentary desk. This sparked speculation that the WWE Hall of Famer could be in the running for the role.
Speaking in a new interview with Wrestling Inc’s Nick Hausman, Booker said that while he’s always ready to contribute, he doesn’t want to be back on the road full-time.
“You know, what I say with my job is I’m always available when I’m available,” Booker T said. “I never go looking for anything like that. Right now, I got so many projects with WWE, as well as outside of the WWE.”
“People don’t realize, being at that table is 52 weeks out of the year,” Booker T said. “You’re in a different city, it’s like being one of the boys, it’s like being on the road. I’m happy, I’m like so content with where I am in my life right now. I cannot be missing my golf outings on a weekly. So, that’s a hard job.”
Booker T began life as an announcer in 2011 after winding down his in-ring career. In the years that followed the star commentated on both Raw and SmackDown before becoming a regular presence on pay-per-view pre-shows.
H/t to Wrestling Inc for the transcription.