Pair of announcers among 15 laid off by WWE

A pair of long-time announcers are among 15 people reportedly laid off by WWE as it continues to navigate the financial challenges of Covid-19.

Jerry Soto, the Stamford wrestling firm”™s Spanish-language announcer since 2011, and SmackDown ring announcer Tony Chimel, who had been with WWE since 1991, were among those cut.

While Chimel had been working behind the scenes as a production manager for the past couple of years, Soto had been announcing the international RAW and SmackDown shows until he was furloughed earlier this year.

“Officially I don”™t have a job,” Soto said in a statement to Spanish-language publication Súper Luchas, translated through Google. “I take a little of your time to tell you that I have been on temporary layoff (furlough) since April. Now, the time has come to get another job, preferably acting. I write it here so that you have me in mind with employment opportunities. Thanks for your time.

“It is not the end, but another beginning,” Soto continued. “If you”™ve lost your job too, patience, joy and strength, and everyone, a sanitized hug!”

Others let go were “logistical and behind-the-scenes staff,” according to reports.

WWE has not commented on the reports.