This time last year, pro wrestling fans were shocked when Samantha Irvin announced on social media that she had left WWE. Initially, it was believed that this had happened on short notice, but it was later confirmed that she had informed the company of her intention to leave several months earlier, as she did not enjoy her role as a ring announcer.
Still, many assumed she would soon begin appearing on AEW television alongside her husband, Ricochet, although that has yet to happen. And now, on the anniversary of her departure, she has unexpectedly tweeted “One year down, one year left on my non-compete,” revealing she legally couldn’t work elsewhere in the wrestling business.
36-year-old Irvin, whose real name is Samantha Johnson, initially spent four years as a vocalist in the Michael Jackson tribute show Thriller – Live, which led to her appearance in the 10th season of America’s Got Talent. However, a public vote eliminated her at the semi-final stage despite impressing judges and many viewers at home. Yet, while this would typically set someone up for a musical career, she instead broke into the pro wrestling business via WWE, thanks to the suggestion of Mark Henry, who recognized her talent.
