The June 7 WWE x AAA Worlds Collide event delivered more than just groundbreaking lucha libre action—it became a career-defining moment for commentator Corey Graves. What appeared to be another assignment actually served as an emotional lifeline for the longtime WWE broadcaster, who candidly shared his personal struggles on social media following the historic crossover show.
A Broadcaster’s Vulnerable Moment
Graves pulled back the curtain on his mental state leading up to the event, admitting he’d been wrestling with his own demons. The commentary veteran didn’t sugarcoat his feelings when addressing fans on X (formerly Twitter).
“Sometimes, you run low on passion. But then, something like this weekend happens,”
This raw honesty stands out in an industry where performers typically maintain kayfabe even in their personal lives. For someone who’s been a mainstay across WWE’s programming for years, showing this level of vulnerability demonstrates the real impact the event had on him personally.
Honoring Lucha Libre Culture and AAA
The broadcast booth pairing of Graves with lucha libre legend Konnan created an intriguing dynamic for the bilingual audience. Graves made it clear he understood the responsibility of representing another promotion’s culture authentically.
His message to AAA showed genuine respect for the collaboration:
“Gracias por permitirme entrar en tu mundo, @luchalibreaaa. I only wanted to do your culture & business proud.”
This approach reflects WWE’s evolving relationship with international promotions and their willingness to showcase different wrestling philosophies.
Learning from a Lucha Legend
Working alongside Konnan, the former WCW United States Champion and lucha libre icon, provided Graves with more than just a broadcast partner. The experience offered him a masterclass in calling action from someone deeply embedded in Mexican wrestling culture.
Graves didn’t hold back his appreciation for the veteran’s expertise and character:
“Thank you to @Konnan5150 for dropping the important knowledge and being a genuinely first class human being. He loves this more than any of us will ever understand.”
This partnership highlighted how cross-promotional events can create learning opportunities that extend beyond just the in-ring action.
Finding Purpose Through Professional Wrestling
The most impactful part of Graves’ reflection came in his closing thoughts, where he revealed how the event helped pull him out of his emotional rough patch. His words resonated with fans who may face similar struggles.
“Thanks to you guys, for reminding me that a rough patch isn’t the end of the road.”
This message transforms what could have been a simple thank-you post into something much more meaningful. It shows how professional wrestling can serve as both entertainment and inspiration, even for those who work in the industry daily.
The Bigger Picture for WWE Commentary
Graves’ emotional investment in the Worlds Collide event raises questions about creative freedom within WWE’s commentary structure. His enthusiasm for this assignment suggests he thrives when given opportunities to step outside the typical WWE presentation style.
The crossover format allowed him to showcase different aspects of his broadcasting abilities while working with talent outside WWE’s usual roster of announcers. This kind of creative flexibility could benefit both Graves and WWE’s overall product moving forward.
When a seasoned broadcaster like Corey Graves describes an event as career-rejuvenating, it speaks volumes about wrestling’s power to inspire even industry veterans. Will WWE continue providing these kinds of unique opportunities that clearly energize their talent, or was Worlds Collide a one-time experiment?
