Summary

Talk about Stephen A. Smith potentially appearing in WWE this summer appears to be more than idle speculation.

A new report stated that discussions have taken place about giving Smith an on-screen role, and that ESPN is enthusiastic about the possibility as the company's partnership with WWE continues to expand.

That follows Smith's own recent comments about possibly stepping into the wrestling world, including his suggestion that Paul Heyman could help him become WWE's top heel.

Quote from Dave Meltzer

Meltzer addressed the situation and said the idea has real traction internally.

"We haven’t seen anything with Stephen A. Smith. Yet. Although, boy, that name has been talked about, and I know it’s serious talk. Put it this way, a lot of the [WWE] people who were not happy about Pat McAfee in-fact are favorable to Stephen A. As far as internally."

What Stephen A. Smith could mean for WWE TV

If WWE does bring Stephen A. Smith in for an on-screen role, it would add another mainstream ESPN personality to the company's weekly television mix at a time when both sides are leaning harder into that relationship.

Meltzer's note about internal support also stands out because it suggests this is not just outside interest. If that backing holds, Smith could become part of WWE programming in a visible talking role rather than just a one-off cameo.

Sources

As reported by Fightful, with additional comments from Dave Meltzer.