From PWInsider

Last week on the PWInsider.com Elite Hotline, I exclusively reported that Jonathan Coachman was in the midst of the interview process for an on-air position with ESPN and that WWE put Mick Foley into his Smackdown color commentary role as they wanted someone who would be able to put the company first and foremost on their list of responsibilities.

Coachman, who sources indicate has been quietly discussing leaving WWE for some time, had been doing additional broadcast work for both the MSG Network and CBS' College sports broadcasts of late.

PWInsider.com can confirm Coachman has been hired by ESPN as an anchor. There's no word on when Coachman will debut for the cable sports network, but internally, WWE sources believe Coachman will be finishing up shortly, if he isn't done already with the company.

Coachman had been with WWE since December 1999, working as an announcer and on-air heel persona. Prior to his work with WWF/E, Coachman was a sports writer and sports anchor in his native Kansas.

Labels: Jonathan Coachman, pwinsider, smackdown

Posted by Matt Loede at 6:07 PM | Permalink | Comments

We talked about this two weeks ago or so, but there has been lots of talk about the WWE trying hard to get John Cena to work at Mania, possibly against arch-rival Randy Orton, who possibly could drop the belt by then. Now, PWInsider has also put the possible shot of Cena working the show out there...below are the details:

There is a lot talk backstage about John Cena returning from his torn pectoral muscle at this year's WrestleMania 24. While it is unlikely he will wrestle, it is possible he will have a physical role in the show maybe as an enforcer or referee. As of this week, creative is hopeful and including him in their plans for the show.

Labels: john cena, pwinsider, wrestlemania 24

Posted by Matt Loede at 9:52 PM | Permalink | Comments