Folks, if you tuned in to “AEW Rampage” on May 31 expecting the familiar, flamboyant tones of Chris Jericho on commentary, you were in for a surprise. The man himself, “The Learning Tree,” broke the news backstage, flanked by Big Cass and Bryan Keith—whom Jericho hilariously dubbed “The Bad Apple” on “AEW Dynamite.” Jericho, in his signature over-the-top style, announced he’d be stepping away from the commentary desk.
Jericho’s Grand Farewell
Jericho greeted viewers with his trademark enthusiasm: “Hi guys! Hope you’re having a good time watching ‘Rampage,’ and I’m sure you miss seeing me on TV tonight, and there’s a reason for that… The reason is this: Last week I had an unprovoked attack from a youngster, a young man whose brain isn’t fully formed yet.”
Bryan Keith, ever the sidekick, chimed in with a shout of “No respect!” Jericho continued, “No respect, like ‘The Bad Apple’ said. We’re talking about HOOK, and ‘The Learning Tree’ is far too valuable to be left exposed at the commentary desk, to be attacked like that.” He punctuated this with laughter, then dropped the bombshell: “So I’ve decided to step down from my role as the commentator. After [deliberately unintelligible] episodes of ‘Rampage,’ it’s time for me to spend more time on ‘Dynamite’ and ‘Collision,’ probably three or four, five segments a week, because you know I love having my face on TV! Thanks guys. So I’m stepping down as the commentator, and even though I’m stepping down as Number One on ‘Rampage’ on your TV, I’m still Number One in your hearts. Thanks guys!”
A New Voice for Rampage
With Jericho’s departure, “Daddy Magic” Matt Menard took over the commentary duties on the May 31 episode. Wrestling guru Dave Meltzer of The Wrestling Observer speculated that Menard would be a permanent fixture on the “Rampage” commentary team, a fact later confirmed by wrestling historian Pat Laprade.
So, while Jericho fans might shed a tear or two, fear not! The Ayatollah of Rock ‘n’ Rolla will still be gracing your screens—just not from behind the commentary desk.