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Corey Graves Joins Point Park University Faculty

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Friday, February 6th 2026 at 20:59 GMT by Wrestling News
      Locales: Pennsylvania, UNITED STATES

Pittsburgh, PA - February 7th, 2026 - Corey Graves, the razor-tongued and immensely popular commentator for World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), is embarking on a new chapter in his career. He's traded the headset, at least partially, for a professor's lectern, officially joining the faculty at Point Park University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. This move, announced earlier this week, signals a broader ambition for Graves - a desire to nurture the next generation of sports communication professionals while simultaneously leveraging his extensive experience within the unique world of sports entertainment.

For years, fans have known Corey Graves as the voice delivering often brutally honest, yet insightful, commentary during WWE's flagship programs. Before finding success behind the microphone, however, Graves was a formidable performer in the company's developmental brand, NXT. His reign as NXT Champion demonstrated not just athletic prowess, but also an understanding of character work and storytelling - skills that clearly translate to his commentary style and will undoubtedly be invaluable to his students.

The course Graves will be teaching focuses on sports communication, a field rapidly evolving with the proliferation of digital media and the increasing demand for compelling sports narratives. The curriculum will encompass core areas like sports media relations, broadcasting techniques (covering both traditional and digital platforms), and a comprehensive look at the complex business of sports. While many university programs offer sports communication degrees, few boast instructors with the lived experience of someone who's actively working within the industry, and even fewer with the in-ring and on-air background of Graves.

"I'm really excited about this opportunity," Graves stated. "It's a chance to share my experiences and knowledge with the next generation of sports communicators. I hope to inspire them to pursue their dreams and to make a positive impact on the world." This isn't simply a celebrity endorsement of a program; it's a genuine commitment to mentorship. Sources close to the University suggest Graves was heavily involved in shaping the course's outline to reflect the current landscape of sports media, focusing on areas like social media strategy, content creation, and crisis communication - aspects increasingly vital for any sports professional.

Beyond Broadcasting: The Unique Challenges of Sports Entertainment Communication

While the principles of sports communication remain consistent across disciplines, the world of professional wrestling - or, as WWE prefers, "sports entertainment" - presents unique challenges. Unlike traditional sports, the outcomes are pre-determined. This necessitates a different approach to storytelling, promotion, and maintaining audience engagement. Graves' students will benefit from his inside knowledge of how to build compelling narratives when the 'who wins' isn't a mystery. He'll likely delve into the art of kayfabe (maintaining the illusion of reality), crafting believable feuds, and the use of promotional techniques to generate excitement for events.

Furthermore, the rise of social media has dramatically altered the way wrestling personalities connect with fans. Graves himself is highly active on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram, providing fans with glimpses behind the curtain and engaging in direct interaction. His course will undoubtedly address the opportunities and pitfalls of this direct-to-consumer communication channel. Navigating the line between character and persona, managing online criticism, and leveraging social media for brand building will all likely be key discussion points.

A Growing Trend: Athletes & Performers Transitioning to Academia

Graves' move isn't entirely unprecedented. We've seen a growing trend of professional athletes and performers transitioning into academia, bringing their practical experience to the classroom. This offers students a valuable alternative perspective that textbooks simply can't provide. It bridges the gap between theory and practice, allowing students to learn from someone who's "been there, done that." Examples include former NFL players becoming sports management professors, and retired actors teaching film and television production.

Graves' decision is a testament to his versatility and a clear indication that he's looking beyond his career in the ring and at the commentary booth. While he remains a key figure on WWE programming, this foray into education signals a desire to leave a lasting legacy beyond the world of sports entertainment. Point Park University has secured a significant asset, and future sports communicators are poised to reap the benefits of Graves' unique insights and experience.