WWE is known to make makeshift changes in their television programming very often. In recent memory, they decided to shake up their commentary teams after Pat McAfee went on hiatus for a few months due to his involvement with ESPN’s College Gameday. This led to his broadcaster colleague, Michael Cole, being officially replaced from Monday Night RAW.
Who replaced Michael Cole on the RAW brand’s commentary desk?
Pat McAfee revealed on RAW last week that it was his final night on the commentary desk for an extended time period due to his commitments with ESPN’s College Gameday. This led to his partner and the voice of WWE, Michael Cole, being replaced on RAW by ESPN’s popular broadcaster, Joe Tessitore. The ESPN veteran made his debut on the RAW brand this week, assuming the role of the play-by-play commentator, and he was partnered with Wade Barrett, who moved from SmackDown to RAW.
As for the SmackDown side, Michael Cole was moved to the blue brand alongside his former broadcast colleague, Corey Graves. However, this is a temporary move for now until Monday Night RAW moves to Netflix in 2025 as part of their deal with the streaming giant.
At that time, Pat McAfee is scheduled to make his return as a commentator and will once again be partnered with Michael Cole. This would presumably see Joe Tessitore move to SmackDown, however, his partner at the time is yet to be decided, but there is no official confirmation on either.
Joe Tessitore’s debut on Monday Night RAW this week was met with a mixed response from fans. But WWE was already fired up internally for his first night and had high expectations from him. So we will have to wait and see if Joe Tessitore would be able to garner the WWE Universe’s attention with his unique style and charisma.
