James Smith (September 2, 1977) is an American mixed martial arts commentator and a former mixed martial arts fighter. He was the co-host of the television show Fight Quest, with Doug Anderson, on the Discovery Channel. He is also a former commentator for Bellator, UFC and Premier Boxing Champions. He is a former host for American Ninja Warrior in 2010–2011. He is previously signed to World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) where he was the play-by-play commentator for their weekly television show Monday Night Raw.
Early life[]
Smith was born on September 2, 1977. He was a former high school wrestler and teacher. He attended UCLA in college but at that time, they did not have a wrestling team so some students who wrestled in high school would meet at the Wooden Center to wrestle. He was introduced to Brazilian jiu-jitsu when during one of their wrestling sessions a BJJ instructor invited him to attend a class that night at the same room. After graduating Smith trained at Team Punishment.
World Wrestling Entertainment[]
On May 26, 2021, WWE named Smith as play-by-play commentator for Monday Night Raw, replacing Adnan Virk.
On October 6, 2022 WWE announced changes to their commentary teams including that Kevin Patrick would be the new play-by-play commentator for Monday Night Raw. Jimmy later confirmed his departure from WWE via his Twitter account.
Personal life[]
Smith has a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu under Ricardo "Rey" Diogo.
