Corey Graves Criticized for Thinking NXT Move Is Beneath Him

Corey Graves has been an important voice in WWE as a commentator for many years. However, things haven’t been going well for him recently after he publicly shared his frustration about being moved to NXT commentary in now-deleted tweets. In fact, he is now being criticized for acting like the move is beneath him.

While speaking on The Wrestling Time Machine, Teddy Long criticized Corey Graves for feeling frustrated about his transition to NXT and believing it was beneath him. Long argued that Graves has nothing left to prove and should embrace the opportunity to help younger talent while still getting paid. He pointed out that NXT offers a less hectic schedule compared to the main roster and suggested that Graves might even grow to enjoy it.

‘Corey Graves needs to understand that he has nothing to prove—he’s already proved himself. Go to NXT, help those guys down there who need your guidance, educate them, and teach them about the broadcast business. The main thing is, you’re still getting a paycheck, so what’s the problem? You’re employed, man, and you’re still getting paid. It’s not beneath you.

Like I said, he doesn’t realize that life would probably be a lot easier in NXT than it would be on the main roster because that schedule is really hectic. In NXT, you can relax a little bit. If I were him, I’d just go down there, do whatever I’m told, get my check, and who knows? He might end up liking it.“

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Long stated that Graves should appreciate having a job, as many people would love to be in his position. He mentioned his own career, recalling how he managed top talent in WCW before joining WWE as a referee. Instead of complaining about the role, Long accepted it and focused on earning his paycheck.

“I hope Corey doesn’t take something like this too seriously. He has a job, and there are so many people out there right now who would love to be in his position. Just get your check and do what you’re told—this is the wrestling business. I know he’s been in it long enough to understand that.

Look at me. I worked in WCW for years, managing Butch Reed and Ron Simmons. I had the first African American Tag Team Champions, I managed Johnny B. Badd, and all kinds of guys. When I went to Vince McMahon, I put on a referee shirt. Did I complain to Vince, saying, ‘Hey man, I’m better than a referee’? No, because that’s not how you play the game. If they wanted me to be a referee, fine—just give me my check.”

Teddy Long pointed out that even a huge star like The Rock didn’t find it beneath him to appear on NXT, showing that Graves should see this as an opportunity rather than a demotion, as Long doesn’t understand what Graves’ problem is.

“If it’s not beneath The Rock to go to NXT, then what are you even talking about, Corey?“

After missing the January 14 episode of WWE NXT, Corey Graves was also notably absent from the January 15 episode of WWE Speed. However, Dave Meltzer also noted that Corey Graves’ Twitter outburst could be turned into an angle, but there is no confirmation on that yet. Regardless, we’ll have to see what happens to Corey Graves, as fans feel he should remain with WWE no matter what.

Do you agree with Teddy Long that Corey Graves should embrace his role in NXT, or do you think Graves has a right to be frustrated? Let us know in the comments!

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