The professional wrestling world was left stunned when Samantha Irvin, one of WWE’s most beloved and dynamic ring announcers, revealed her shocking departure from the company in October 2024.
Known for her emotional introductions and talented vocal performances on WWE Raw and WWE SmackDown, Samantha Irvin had become a fan favorite. But what led to this surprising decision, and more importantly, what is the former WWE announcer doing now? This comprehensive guide explores Samantha Irvin’s journey from WWE to her transformation as Samantha The Bomb, her music career, and what fans can expect from her in 2026 and beyond.
Table of Contents
Who is Samantha Irvin? A Brief Introduction
Samantha Irvin, born Samantha Johnson on January 9, 1989, in Dennis, Massachusetts, is far more than just a ring announcer. Before her time in professional wrestling, she was already an accomplished musician and singer with a rich background in performing arts.
Growing up in New Bedford, Massachusetts, Samantha Johnson showed exceptional talent from an early age. At just four years old, she began studying classical music, eventually competing in classical flute at a national level. Her passion for performance led her to attend New Bedford High School, where she starred as Dorothy Gale in The Wonderful Wizard of Oz and won a gold medal at the International Association of Jazz Educators State Jazz Finals.
Early Career Highlights
Samantha’s entertainment journey includes several notable achievements:
- 2011-2015: Lead female vocalist for the Michael Jackson tribute show “Thriller – Live”
- 2015: Competed on America’s Got Talent Season 10, reaching the semi-finals with her rendition of “A Natural Woman”
- 2016: Released her debut EP “27Underground” featuring the single “Jump High”
- 2020: Appeared on FOX’s “I Can See Your Voice” performing Lizzo’s “Good as Hell”
- Las Vegas Performer: Portrayed Gladys Knight and Tina Turner in “Vegas! The Show”
WWE Journey Begins
Samantha Irvin’s path to WWE came through an unexpected introduction by WWE Hall of Famer Mark Henry. Initially, she auditioned at the WWE Performance Center to become a wrestler but was unsuccessful. However, her incredible vocal talent caught the company’s attention.
In April 2021, Samantha Irvin was hired as the ring announcer for WWE 205 Live on Peacock, marking the beginning of her wrestling career. Her progression through WWE was rapid and impressive:
| Date | Role | Show | Network |
|---|---|---|---|
| April 2021 | Ring Announcer | WWE 205 Live | Peacock |
| Mid-2021 | Ring Announcer | WWE NXT | USA Network |
| January 2022 | Ring Announcer | WWE SmackDown | FOX |
| May 2023 | Ring Announcer | WWE Raw | USA Network |
Samantha Irvin quickly became known for her unique, emotional, and dynamic announcing style. Her introductions weren’t just announcements—they were performances that elevated every match and wrestler she introduced.
The Shocking Announcement: Why Samantha Irvin Left WWE
On October 21, 2024, Samantha Irvin shocked the wrestling community with her unexpected announcement that she was leaving WWE. The news came as a surprise to fans who had grown to love her passionate work on Monday Night Raw.
The Departure Timeline
The WWE departure unfolded as follows:
- October 2024: Samantha Irvin publicly announces departure from WWE
- Late October 2024: Lillian Garcia returns as ring announcer to replace her
- November 2024-Present: Samantha transitions to full-time music career
- February 2025: Officially rebrands as Samantha The Bomb
Reasons for Leaving
In a revealing interview with USA Today in February 2025, Samantha Irvin opened up about the deeply personal reasons behind her decision to leave WWE. Her explanation highlighted the internal conflict she faced as a performer and artist.
Samantha explained: “It just became more and more sad as time went on, because it’s like, ‘Wow, am I just not a singer anymore? Like, what am I doing?’ I know that I am a performer and being a ring announcer on WWE, it was the performance of a lifetime. But then when people stopped calling me for singing gigs, and now they’re asking me to announce everything, I said, ‘Oh no, I took it too far.'”
The Identity Crisis
The former WWE announcer revealed that she felt she was losing her core identity as a musician. “I was like, man, like, this cannot be forever,” she continued. “I didn’t leave WWE to necessarily pursue anything specific. I just knew that I’m not a ring announcer, and I knew that if I continued going any longer, that was it. It was done. I could kiss any other thing that I wanted to do goodbye. I just need to be myself. That’s literally it.”
This honest reflection shows that Samantha Irvin’s decision wasn’t made lightly. It was about reclaiming her artistic identity and ensuring she wouldn’t be pigeonholed into a single role for the rest of her career.
WWE’s Response
While WWE has not publicly commented extensively on Samantha Irvin’s departure, the company quickly moved to replace her with veteran announcer Lillian Garcia, demonstrating the show-must-go-on mentality of professional wrestling. The transition was smooth, but fans continue to miss Samantha’s unique style and energy.
The Two-Year Non-Compete Clause Controversy
Perhaps the most stunning revelation following Samantha Irvin’s departure was the disclosure of her non-compete clause. In October 2025, exactly one year after leaving WWE, Samantha shocked fans again with a social media post that sent shockwaves through the wrestling community.
The Shocking Reveal
Samantha The Bomb posted on X (formerly Twitter): “One year down, one year left on my non-compete! Can’t wait 😛 I hope you enjoy my songs in the meantime and look back on all the memories as fondly as I do! Love & miss you all and remember- I NEVER left FOR music, I am music. Hope to see you soon…..”
This revelation meant that Samantha Irvin is bound by a two-year non-compete clause that prevents her from appearing in professional wrestling until October 2026.
Wrestling Community Reaction
The wrestling community’s reaction to this news was swift and largely negative toward WWE. Many fans and industry professionals expressed disbelief that a ring announcer would be subject to the same lengthy non-compete restrictions typically reserved for in-ring talent.
Wrestling community reactions included:
- Mercedes Moné (formerly Sasha Banks) jokingly replied that she knows several attorneys
- Fans questioned the fairness of restricting non-wrestling talent for two years
- Wrestling journalists compared it to typical 90-day clauses for wrestlers
- Legal experts debated the enforceability of such restrictions
Comparison to Standard WWE Contracts
The controversy deepened when fans compared Samantha Irvin’s situation to typical WWE contracts:
| Role | Typical Non-Compete | Samantha’s Case | Controversy Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Event Wrestlers | 90 days | N/A | Standard |
| Mid-Card Wrestlers | 90 days | N/A | Standard |
| Ring Announcers | 30-90 days (typical) | 2 years | High |
| Backstage Personnel | 30-90 days | N/A | Standard |
Broader Industry Implications
Samantha’s case has brought renewed attention to WWE and TKO’s contract practices. Other recent cases, including Ridge Holland’s contract situation and Andrade’s brief AEW return followed by removal, have led many fans to call for wrestlers and WWE personnel to pursue legal action.
The question remains: Is it reasonable to prevent a ring announcer from continuing their wrestling career for two full years, especially when they’re not competing in the ring?
Samantha Irvin’s Music Career: Samantha The Bomb is Born
With WWE in her rearview mirror, Samantha Irvin has fully embraced her first love: music. Rebranding as Samantha The Bomb, she’s launched an ambitious music career that showcases the vocal talent that made her famous in the first place.
The Birth of Samantha The Bomb
The name Samantha The Bomb isn’t just a catchy stage name—it represents her explosive talent and dynamic personality. In February 2025, she officially adopted this moniker and announced her return to the music industry with renewed focus and energy.
Musical Background and Training
Samantha The Bomb’s music credentials are impressive and extensive:
- Classical Training: Studied classical flute from age 4
- National Competitions: Competed in classical music at national level
- Jazz Expertise: Gold medalist at International Association of Jazz Educators
- Vocal Range: Trained in multiple genres including jazz, pop, R&B, and Broadway
- Live Performance: Years of experience in Las Vegas shows and theatrical productions
Discography and Releases
Samantha The Bomb has been actively releasing new music throughout 2025:
“Make Me” – Valentine’s Day Single
Released on February 14, 2025, “Make Me” was Samantha The Bomb’s reintroduction to the music world. The single showcases her powerful vocals and emotional delivery, blending contemporary R&B with pop sensibilities.
“Make Me” Key Details:
- Release Date: February 14, 2025 (Valentine’s Day)
- Genre: R&B/Pop
- Theme: Love, desire, and vulnerability
- Production: Modern, radio-friendly sound
- Reception: Positive response from both wrestling and music fans
“Shawty Wanna” Music Video
Following the success of “Make Me,” Samantha The Bomb released the music video for “Shawty Wanna,” a more upbeat, dance-oriented track that demonstrates her versatility as an artist.
“Shawty Wanna” Details:
- Release: Spring 2025
- Genre: Pop/Dance
- Music Video: High production value with choreography
- Streaming: Available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music
- Themes: Confidence, attraction, fun
2025 Music Achievements
Samantha The Bomb’s music career in 2025 has included:
| Achievement | Date | Platform | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| “Make Me” Single Release | Feb 2025 | All Streaming | Career Relaunch |
| “Shawty Wanna” Music Video | Spring 2025 | YouTube | Visual Showcase |
| Social Media Growth | 2025 | X, Instagram, TikTok | Fan Base Expansion |
| Industry Interviews | Feb-Nov 2025 | USA Today, Wrestling Media | Brand Building |
Musical Style and Influences
Samantha The Bomb’s musical style draws from diverse influences:
- R&B Legends: Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston, Gladys Knight
- Contemporary Pop: Lizzo, Ariana Grande, Beyoncé
- Jazz Standards: Classic vocalists and improvisational elements
- Broadway: Theatrical performance and storytelling
Her time portraying Tina Turner in Las Vegas shows particularly influenced her stage presence and vocal power, giving her performances an electrifying quality that translates perfectly to her original music.
What is Samantha Irvin Doing in 2026?
As we move through 2026, Samantha The Bomb is busier than ever, building a multifaceted career in entertainment while counting down to the end of her non-compete clause in October 2026.
Current Music Projects
Samantha The Bomb is actively working on several music projects in 2026:
- Full-Length Album: Expected release in late 2026 or early 2027
- New Singles: Regularly releasing new tracks throughout the year
- Collaborations: Working with other artists and producers
- Music Videos: High-quality visual content for streaming platforms
Live Performances
Despite not being able to appear in professional wrestling, Samantha is making her presence felt through live performances:
2026 Performance Schedule:
- Nightclub Appearances: Select venues in Las Vegas and Los Angeles
- Music Festivals: Securing slots at regional music festivals
- Private Events: Corporate events and special occasions
- Livestream Concerts: Virtual performances for global fanbase
- Theater Shows: Returning to theatrical productions with music focus
Brand Collaborations
Samantha The Bomb has leveraged her fame from WWE to secure several brand collaborations in 2026:
- Fashion Partnerships: Clothing lines and style endorsements
- Fitness Products: Workout gear and wellness brands
- Beauty Endorsements: Makeup and skincare partnerships
- Streaming Platforms: Exclusive content deals
- Event Hosting: MC and hosting opportunities for entertainment events
Social Media Presence
Samantha’s social media presence has remained strong throughout 2026, keeping fans engaged with her journey:
| Platform | Content Type | Frequency | Engagement |
|---|---|---|---|
| X (Twitter) | Updates, interactions, countdown | Daily | High |
| Photos, behind-scenes, music promo | 3-4x weekly | Very High | |
| TikTok | Short videos, music snippets, fun content | 2-3x weekly | Growing |
| YouTube | Music videos, vlogs, Q&As | Weekly | High |
| Announcements, events | 2-3x weekly | Moderate |
Behind the Scenes
What many fans don’t see is the incredible work Samantha The Bomb is doing behind the scenes:
- Vocal Training: Continuing to develop her craft with top coaches
- Songwriting: Creating original material for future releases
- Studio Sessions: Recording new tracks and perfecting her sound
- Business Development: Building her team and managing her career
- Networking: Connecting with industry professionals for future opportunities
Countdown to October 2026
As Samantha The Bomb approaches the end of her non-compete in October 2026, anticipation is building. She frequently references the countdown on social media, keeping the wrestling community engaged and speculating about her next move.
Her message is clear: she’s using this time to grow as an artist, build her brand, and prepare for an explosive return to the wrestling world when the time is right.
Will Samantha Irvin Return to Wrestling?
This is the question on every wrestling fan’s mind: Will Samantha Irvin return to professional wrestling after her non-compete ends, and if so, in what capacity?
Her Guarantee to Return
Samantha has been crystal clear about her intentions. In her February 2025 interview with USA Today, she made a powerful statement:
“That’s a guarantee. My wrestling career has barely even begun. I think it would be an absolute waste of everything that I’ve done so far to not continue the story. I gotta finish my story.”
This declaration sent shockwaves through the wrestling community and has fueled months of speculation about where and how she’ll return.
Potential Roles Beyond Ring Announcing
One of the most interesting aspects of Samantha’s planned return is her emphasis that she is “not a ring announcer.” This suggests she has bigger ambitions for her wrestling career than simply announcing matches.
Possible roles for Samantha Irvin in wrestling:
- On-Screen Authority Figure: Manager or authority role on WWE or AEW
- Wrestler: Training to become an in-ring competitor
- Manager/Valet: Managing top talent and cutting promos
- Creative Consultant: Working behind the scenes on storylines
- Performance Coach: Teaching promos and mic skills at WWE Performance Center or AEW
- Entertainment Host: Backstage interviewer or talk show host
- Musical Performances: Singing live at major wrestling events
AEW Speculation and Ricochet Connection
The most prevalent rumor involves Samantha potentially joining AEW (All Elite Wrestling) alongside Samantha Irvin husband, Ricochet.
The Ricochet Factor
Ricochet (Trevor Mann) left WWE in 2024 and joined AEW, where he’s been performing at a high level. The couple married in 2025, and their partnership presents unique opportunities.
AEW Connection Timeline:
- 2024: Ricochet leaves WWE, joins AEW
- October 2024: Samantha Irvin leaves WWE
- 2025: Couple marries, Samantha focuses on music
- October 2026: Non-compete ends, speculation intensifies
Why AEW Makes Sense
Several factors point toward AEW as a potential destination:
| Factor | Why It Matters | Likelihood |
|---|---|---|
| Ricochet is there | Couple can work together | High |
| AEW creative freedom | More room for innovation | High |
| Music integration | AEW embraces musicians (Jericho, etc.) | High |
| Tony Khan’s interest | AEW owner respects talent | Moderate |
| TV time availability | More opportunities than WWE | Moderate |
Why WWE Return Isn’t Impossible
Despite the non-compete controversy, a WWE return isn’t out of the question:
- WWE has a history of bringing back departed talent
- Her relationship with the company was generally positive
- WWE’s larger platform for her music career
- Familiarity with the locker room and production team
- Potential for higher salary and better contract terms
When the Non-Compete Ends
The magic date circled on everyone’s calendar is October 2026. Once the non-compete clause expires, Samantha will be free to appear in professional wrestling for any company.
Key dates to watch:
- October 21, 2026: Exact two-year anniversary, non-compete officially ends
- Late October 2026: Potential surprise appearances or announcements
- November 2026: Could debut at AEW Full Gear or WWE Survivor Series
- January 2027: WWE Royal Rumble weekend or AEW events
Industry Insider Predictions
Wrestling journalists and insiders have offered various predictions:
- Dave Meltzer (Wrestling Observer): Has hinted AEW is interested
- Sean Ross Sapp (Fightful): Notes both WWE and AEW would benefit
- Mike Johnson (PWInsider): Suggests creative role more likely than announcing
What Samantha Has Said
Beyond her guarantee to return, Samantha The Bomb has been strategic in her comments:
- “I want to see creatively what else I can do”
- “When I come back, I’ll bring even more value than before”
- “My wrestling career has barely begun”
- “I gotta finish my story”
These statements suggest she’s planning something bigger and more impactful than simply returning to a ring announcer position.
Samantha Irvin’s Future Plans Beyond 2026
Looking past the October 2026 milestone, Samantha The Bomb has ambitious plans that extend across multiple entertainment sectors.
Long-Term Career Goals
Samantha has articulated several long-term ambitions that showcase her versatility as an entertainer:
- Established Music Artist: Building a sustainable music career with multiple albums
- Wrestling Personality: Becoming a significant on-screen figure in professional wrestling
- Television Host: Expanding into mainstream entertainment hosting
- Actress: Pursuing acting roles in film and television
- Entrepreneur: Launching her own brand and business ventures
Entertainment Hosting Opportunities
With her charisma, vocal talent, and on-camera experience, Samantha The Bomb is perfectly positioned for hosting opportunities:
Potential Hosting Ventures:
- Music Competition Shows: Judge or host for singing competitions
- Awards Shows: Red carpet or backstage hosting
- Podcasts: Launching her own interview or entertainment podcast
- YouTube Series: Creating original content for digital platforms
- Live Events: Hosting conventions, fan events, and entertainment showcases
Potential Wrestling Management Role
One exciting possibility is Samantha taking on a management or authority figure role in wrestling. Her experience, charisma, and understanding of the business make her ideal for such positions:
Management Role Possibilities:
- On-Screen General Manager: Making matches and driving storylines
- Faction Leader: Managing a stable of wrestlers
- Valet/Manager: Enhancing a top star’s presentation
- Authority Heel: Playing a villainous corporate figure
- Babyface Commissioner: Fan-favorite authority keeping order
Creative Projects in Development
Samantha The Bomb is reportedly working on several creative projects:
- Documentary: Behind-the-scenes look at her journey from WWE to music
- Book Deal: Potential memoir about her entertainment career
- Fashion Line: Clothing and accessories reflecting her style
- Music Collaborations: Working with established artists on features
- Charitable Foundation: Using her platform for community impact
Skills She’s Developing
To prepare for these diverse opportunities, Samantha is actively expanding her skillset:
| Skill | Application | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Acting Classes | TV/Film roles | Ongoing |
| Social Media Marketing | Brand building | Ongoing |
| Business Management | Entrepreneurship | 2026-2027 |
| Wrestling Training | Potential in-ring work | Speculated |
| Music Production | Producing own tracks | Ongoing |
The 5-Year Vision (2026-2031)
Samantha The Bomb has hinted at an ambitious five-year plan:
- 2026-2027: Return to wrestling, release debut album
- 2027-2028: Establish dual career in music and wrestling
- 2028-2029: Expand into hosting and acting
- 2029-2030: Launch entrepreneurial ventures
- 2031: Be recognized as a multi-platform entertainment mogul
Balancing Multiple Careers
The biggest challenge will be balancing her music career, wrestling involvement, and other entertainment pursuits. However, Samantha’s work ethic and passion suggest she’s more than capable of managing multiple successful ventures simultaneously.
The Legacy of Samantha Irvin in WWE
Despite her relatively brief time with the company, Samantha Irvin left an indelible mark on WWE and the professional wrestling industry.
WrestleMania 40 Highlights
Samantha Irvin’s crowning achievement in WWE came at WrestleMania 40 in April 2024, where she introduced an impressive 14 matches over two nights. This performance represented the pinnacle of her ring announcing career and showcased why she was considered one of the best in the business.
WrestleMania XL Achievements:
- 14 match introductions across two nights
- Emotional call for Cody Rhodes vs. Roman Reigns
- Dynamic energy that elevated every entrance
- Praised by legendary announcer Michael Buffer
- Trending on social media throughout the event
Notable Match Introductions
Some of Samantha Irvin’s most memorable WWE moments include:
- Cody Rhodes Introductions: Her emotional, passionate calls for “The American Nightmare”
- Chelsea Green: Unique, extended introduction that became a fan favorite
- Gunther Entrances: Powerful, commanding presence for the Intercontinental Champion
- Roman Reigns: Epic introductions for “The Tribal Chief”
- The Judgment Day: Creative group introductions with intensity
Michael Buffer’s Praise
Perhaps the highest compliment came from legendary announcer Michael Buffer, known for his iconic “Let’s Get Ready to Rumble” catchphrase. Buffer specifically praised Samantha Irvin’s work at WrestleMania 40, calling her performance outstanding and noting her natural talent and emotional connection to the audience.
This endorsement from one of the greatest announcers in history validated Samantha’s approach and cemented her legacy in professional wrestling.
Fan Reactions and Impact
The wrestling community’s reaction to Samantha Irvin was overwhelmingly positive throughout her tenure:
Positive Fan Sentiment:
- Social media praise for her unique style
- Fan chants and appreciation during live events
- Online petitions after her departure
- Continued support for her music career
- Anticipation for her wrestling return
What Fans Loved:
- Emotional investment in every introduction
- Vocal talent and range
- Respect for the wrestlers and the business
- Authenticity and passion
- Willingness to make each wrestler feel special
Impact on Women in Wrestling
Samantha Irvin’s success as a ring announcer opened doors for other women in non-wrestling roles within the industry. She demonstrated that announcers could be stars in their own right and that vocal talent and presentation were just as important as any other aspect of the show.
Her Impact Includes:
- Elevated the ring announcer role to must-see status
- Showed that women could bring unique perspective to announcing
- Inspired young girls interested in wrestling careers
- Proved that talent transcends traditional role boundaries
- Set new standards for performance and presentation
Comparing Her to Wrestling Announcing Legends
Samantha Irvin earned comparisons to some of the greatest ring announcers in history:
| Announcer | Era | Style | Legacy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lillian Garcia | 1999-2016 | Professional, powerful | WWE Hall of Fame worthy |
| Howard Finkel | 1977-2020 | Classic, authoritative | WWE Hall of Famer |
| Tony Chimel | 1989-2020 | Edge’s personal announcer | Cult favorite |
| Justin Roberts | 2002-2014 | Enthusiastic, dramatic | Modern influencer |
| Samantha Irvin | 2021-2024 | Emotional, dynamic, musical | Future legend |
The Numbers Behind Her Success
Samantha Irvin’s impact can be quantified through various metrics:
- 3.5 years with WWE (April 2021 – October 2024)
- 14 matches announced at WrestleMania XL
- 500+ episodes of WWE programming
- Millions of social media impressions
- Countless viral moments and trending topics
What WWE Lost
WWE’s loss when Samantha Irvin departed cannot be understated:
- Unique vocal talent that stood out from predecessors
- Emotional connection with the audience
- Social media engagement and viral moments
- Fresh perspective on classic wrestling presentation
- Crossover appeal to music and entertainment fans
Lasting Contributions
Even after her departure, Samantha Irvin’s contributions to WWE continue to influence the product:
- Higher standards for ring announcers
- Emphasis on personality in all roles
- Integration of music and performance into announcing
- Proof that support roles can be stars
- Blueprint for future announcers to follow
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When did Samantha Irvin leave WWE?
Samantha Irvin officially left WWE in October 2024. She announced her departure on October 21, 2024, ending her three-and-a-half-year run with the company. Her last appearance as the WWE Raw ring announcer was during the October programming before Lillian Garcia returned to replace her.
Who is Samantha Irvin married to?
Samantha Irvin is married to Ricochet (real name Trevor Mann), a professional wrestler currently performing for AEW. The couple got engaged in January 2023 and married in 2025. Ricochet left WWE in 2024, several months before Samantha departed, and both have since pursued new opportunities outside the company. Samantha also has a daughter from a previous relationship.
Will Samantha Irvin join AEW?
While Samantha Irvin (now Samantha The Bomb) has not officially confirmed plans to join AEW, speculation is high. Her husband Ricochet currently works for AEW, and she has guaranteed she will return to professional wrestling when her non-compete clause ends in October 2026. Many fans and insiders believe AEW is the most likely destination, though a return to WWE is also possible. She has stated she wants to return in a capacity beyond just ring announcing, suggesting a more creative or on-screen role.
What music has Samantha Irvin released?
As Samantha The Bomb, she has released several music projects:
Discography:
- “27Underground” (2016) – Debut EP featuring “Jump High”
- “Make Me” (February 2025) – Valentine’s Day single marking her return to music
- “Shawty Wanna” (2025) – Upbeat pop/dance track with music video
- Additional singles throughout 2025 and 2026
Her music is available on all major streaming platforms including Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, and Amazon Music. She continues to release new content regularly as she builds her music career.
How long is Samantha Irvin’s non-compete with WWE?
Samantha Irvin is bound by an unprecedented two-year non-compete clause with WWE, which prevents her from appearing in professional wrestling until October 2026. This is significantly longer than typical WWE non-compete agreements, which usually last 90 days for wrestlers and 30-90 days for non-wrestling talent. The lengthy restriction for a ring announcer has been controversial within the wrestling community, with many questioning its fairness and necessity.
What was Samantha Irvin’s real name before WWE?
Samantha Irvin’s real name is Samantha Johnson. She was born on January 9, 1989, in Dennis, Massachusetts, and grew up in New Bedford, Massachusetts. She used the name Samantha Johnson throughout her early music career, including her appearances on America’s Got Talent and in theatrical productions. When she joined WWE in 2021, she adopted the ring name “Samantha Irvin.” After leaving WWE, she rebranded as “Samantha The Bomb” for her music career.
Did Samantha Irvin wrestle in WWE?
No, Samantha Irvin never wrestled in WWE. She actually auditioned to become a wrestler at the WWE Performance Center but was unsuccessful. However, her incredible vocal talent impressed the company, and she was hired as a ring announcer instead. Interestingly, she has hinted that her “wrestling career has barely begun,” suggesting she may pursue in-ring competition or other on-screen roles when her non-compete ends in October 2026.
What shows did Samantha Irvin appear on before WWE?
Before joining WWE, Samantha Johnson appeared on several notable shows:
- America’s Got Talent (Season 10, 2015) – Reached semi-finals
- I Can See Your Voice (FOX, 2020) – Performed as a contestant
- Thriller – Live (2011-2015) – Lead female vocalist for Michael Jackson tribute
- Various Las Vegas productions including “Vegas! The Show”
