This change is notable as Michael Cole, a veteran voice who has primarily been associated with Monday Night Raw for nearly two decades, returns to the blue brand’s commentary desk. Corey Graves, who had been filling in on Raw alongside Cole following Pat McAfee’s departure, joins Cole full-time on SmackDown. Graves’ recent work on Raw won praise from fans and critics alike for his chemistry with Cole, which likely influenced WWE’s decision to pair them permanently on SmackDown[1][2][3].

The shift coincides with Joe Tessitore stepping away from SmackDown commentary duties to focus on his commitments to college football season coverage, a factor that helped precipitate the new arrangement. Tessitore had been paired with Wade Barrett on SmackDown, while Cole and McAfee handled Raw commentary. With McAfee taking a break announced earlier in the summer to focus on his ESPN College GameDay role, Graves was brought back from NXT where he had been assigned after Tessitore’s arrival in 2023[3][5].

Wade Barrett’s future role in WWE commentary remains unclear following this reshuffle. Barrett was not referenced in the on-air announcement and has recently been utilized in a flexible capacity, including calling international events like the Clash in Paris and Raw’s show in Lyon, France. Sources indicate WWE may keep Barrett involved in special events or international broadcasts, but his regular position on SmackDown is currently uncertain[3][4].

Meanwhile, the makeup of Raw’s commentary team is also uncertain since Cole and Graves now officially handle SmackDown. During the recent Raw show in Paris, France, commentary duties were shared by Michael Cole and Wade Barrett, but WWE has yet to confirm the permanent Raw broadcast team moving forward[2][4].

Insiders suggest this commentary realignment is part of WWE’s ongoing strategy to bolster SmackDown’s presentation amid a star-studded fall lineup that includes John Cena’s highly publicized retirement tour and CM Punk’s hometown return. According to sources close to WWE, Vince McMahon and company leadership want SmackDown to stand out by pairing familiar voices with major story arcs, enhancing fan engagement on the blue brand[1][5].

Corey Graves’ trajectory also merits attention. Graves was initially reluctant about his reassignment to NXT commentary following Tessitore’s 2023 arrival, publicly voicing his frustrations. His recent elevation back to the main roster broadcasts and now permanent position on SmackDown alongside Cole marks a significant turnaround in his WWE broadcast role. Fans and analysts view this as a solid bet, given Graves’ strong reception as an on-air personality and his proven rapport with Cole[3][5].

No official statements have yet been made regarding the full-term nature of this commentary team beyond the “next couple of months” window mentioned on-air, nor have WWE addressed how this will affect contingency plans for Raw commentary or other media appearances. As college football season intensifies, Joe Tessitore’s availability remains limited, which may extend Cole and Graves’ tenure on SmackDown beyond initial expectations[1][4].

In summary, WWE’s decision to have Michael Cole and Corey Graves helm SmackDown commentary highlights the company’s willingness to adapt its broadcast strategies in alignment with talent availability and programming priorities. Wrestling fans can expect a seasoned duo bringing their well-honed skills to SmackDown, enhancing the storytelling of key events such as John Cena’s final appearances and CM Punk’s homecoming.

Key Points at a Glance:

• Michael Cole and Corey Graves are confirmed as the official SmackDown commentary team for the next several months[1][2].
• Joe Tessitore has stepped aside from SmackDown commentary to cover college football season[3][5].
• Pat McAfee remains absent from WWE broadcasts due to ESPN commitments; Graves filled his Raw commentary spot temporarily and is now SmackDown-exclusive[1][2].
• Wade Barrett’s commentary role is currently uncertain; he has appeared more on international broadcasts recently[3][4].
• The Raw commentary team remains undecided following this reshuffle[2][4].
• The change is part of WWE’s efforts to strengthen SmackDown’s broadcast appeal amid major storyline events[1][5].

Sources such as WWE.com, Fightful, and industry podcasts have reported on these developments, confirming their accuracy and highlighting the ongoing evolution of WWE’s broadcast teams in 2025. Fans are encouraged to follow SmackDown live to experience the new commentary dynamic firsthand as the company navigates a pivotal season.