Report: Nigel McGuinness Furloughed By WWE

Back on April 15, WWE released 37 Superstars including Rusev, Zack Ryder, Curt Hawkins, Cain Velasquez, Rachael Ellering, Deonna Purrazzo, and Heath Slater. Nine producers and Gerald Brisco were also furloughed by the company while Kurt Angle and Mike Chioda were let go. The releases came after WWE announced they would be making cutbacks because of the coronavirus pandemic despite estimates showing the wrestling behemoth is still on course to make record profits in 2020. 

Dave Meltzer revealed in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter that NXT and NXT UK commentator Nigel McGuinness was also furloughed last month. The British wrestling legend hasn't appeared on WWE TV since the coronavirus pandemic started, and WWE seemingly decided to furlough McGuinness instead of having him record commentary from home like his colleagues Beth Phoenix and Mauro Ranallo. Raw announcers Tom Phillips and Byron Saxton have taken turns deputising for the former ROH World Champion on the black and gold brand. 

When McGuinness will return to NXT remains to be seen. Employees were furloughed until at least July back on April 15 meaning The Brit could return sometime in the Summer.