Lilian Garcia Achieves Major WWE Milestone for First Time Since Debut
Veteran WWE ring announcer Lilian Garcia appeared on NXT for the first time since her 1999 debut, filling in for Mike Rome on Tuesday night.
Garcia replaced regular NXT ring announcer Mike Rome for the broadcast. As of this writing, WWE has not provided a reason for Rome’s absence from the show.
The veteran announcer first joined WWE on August 23, 1999, serving as RAW’s ring announcer until 2009. During this initial tenure, she became one of the company’s most recognizable non-wrestling personalities.
Following a two-year hiatus, Garcia returned to WWE in 2011, this time announcing for SmackDown. She remained in this role until 2016, when she departed to care for her ailing father.
Throughout her WWE career, Garcia has introduced nearly every major star to the ring and worked countless premium live events. Her distinctive voice has become synonymous with WWE’s biggest moments.
Garcia rejoined WWE last year following Samantha Irvin’s departure from the company. She has been serving as RAW’s regular ring announcer since her return.
Despite her extensive experience with the company, Tuesday marked Garcia’s first appearance on the black and gold brand, adding another milestone to her lengthy WWE career.
Lillian Garcia on NXT tonight 🔥#WWENXT pic.twitter.com/WXTitxCNts
— 𝙎𝙖𝙢 (@RhodesKotaEra) March 5, 2025
