Major WWE figure quits Smackdown as full-time employee says, 'There's just a new era upon us'

For years, Lilian Garcia has been a defining voice in WWE, announcing some of the most memorable moments in wrestling history.

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Highlights:

On March 14th, Garcia revealed that the latest episode of SmackDown would be her last.

Although she won’t be on SmackDown regularly, Garcia confirmed that fans will still see her at certain WWE events.

For years, Lilian Garcia has been a defining voice in WWE, announcing some of the most memorable moments in wrestling history. From championship victories to shocking returns, her presence has been an essential part of the WWE experience.  

However, her time as the full-time ring announcer for Friday Night SmackDown has officially come to an end.  

 Garcia Announces Departure from SmackDown  

On March 14th, Garcia revealed that the latest episode of SmackDown would be her last as its full-time announcer. The announcement took fans by surprise, but she quickly reassured them that this wasn’t a complete farewell.  

While stepping away from weekly television, Garcia confirmed that she will still be involved with WWE in various capacities, including special events and new projects.  

Following the episode, Garcia took to Instagram to thank the live audience in Badalona, Spain, and reflect on her decision. She acknowledged that WWE is entering a new phase, bringing changes to its presentation.  

"There's just a new era upon us. Things are being shifted around," Garcia shared.  

 

 

 Continued WWE Presence and Future Projects  

Although she won’t be on SmackDown regularly, Garcia confirmed that fans will still see her at certain WWE events. She specifically mentioned her role in announcing for WWE’s Saturday Night's Main Event shows, with her first scheduled appearance on May 24, 2025, in Tampa, Florida.  

Additionally, Garcia revealed plans to remain involved in other WWE projects, including musical performances and new ventures with the company.  

"I am working with the WWE on some new projects," Garcia teased. "So, I invite you to follow me and just keep along this journey. It's a brand-new chapter, and we'll see what happens."  

 

 

She also left the door open for surprise returns to WWE programming.  

"You never know if I pop up on ['WWE Raw'] or SmackDown whenever I'm needed," she added.  

 

 

 A Storied WWE Career  

Garcia’s decision to transition away from full-time work marks the latest chapter in her long and successful WWE career.  

She originally joined WWE in 1999 and served as an announcer until 2010. After a brief hiatus, she returned in 2011 and remained with the company until 2016. Over the years, she made occasional appearances before returning full-time in October 2024. Initially working on Raw, she later moved to SmackDown in January 2025.  

While her time as SmackDown's primary voice is ending, Garcia’s impact on WWE remains undeniable. With her continued involvement in special events and potential surprise appearances, fans can still expect to hear her iconic voice in the WWE Universe.

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