WWE legend Michael Cole is set to leave Raw and join SmackDown in a significant shift. Joe Tessitore will take over Cole’s spot on Raw, starting September 2 in Denver, Colorado.
Tessitore, who made his debut during Countdown to SummerSlam, expressed his excitement about joining WWE and described his experience at SummerSlam as unforgettable. He praised Cole as a “living legend” and conveyed his gratitude for the opportunity.
It was previously announced that Tessitore will head a three-man team alongside color commentators Barrett and Graves, but it was not clear at that time which show he would be on. Now, with Cole moving to SmackDown, Tessitore’s role on Raw is confirmed.
The status of Pat McAfee’s future remains uncertain due to his commitments with College Game Day. WWE Chief Content Officer Paul “Triple H” Levesque welcomed Tessitore to the team, highlighting his exceptional event-calling skills and enthusiasm.
Tessitore praised WWE’s recent success and expressed his respect for the current commentators, including Corey Graves and Wade Barrett. He also acknowledged Cole and McAfee’s remarkable partnership and his own excitement about joining the team.
Recent commentary changes have seen Kevin Patrick, Jimmy Smith, and Byron Saxton all take roles, with Patrick and Smith no longer with WWE. Saxton now works as a backstage interviewer and broadcaster. Cole and McAfee are expected to stay together, and Tessitore’s move is supported by WWE president Nick Khan, who was Tessitore’s first media client.
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