Wade Barrett has officially addressed swirling rumors about his status as a WWE commentator following the recent announcement that Michael Cole and Corey Graves will become the new SmackDown commentary team. Contrary to reports that suggested Barrett had been taken off the road permanently, the former Intercontinental Champion confirmed that any current break from commentary was pre-planned and temporary.
On Friday night’s SmackDown, WWE announced that Michael Cole and Corey Graves would handle commentary duties for the brand going forward, sparking speculation about Wade Barrett’s future role within the company[2]. Some sources indicated that Barrett’s run as a color commentator on WWE’s main roster might be ending, citing that he was taken off the road and removed from the RAW and SmackDown commentary teams[2][5]. This news alarmed many fans who had come to appreciate Barrett’s insightful and energetic style alongside Cole.
However, Wade Barrett quickly took to his official X (formerly Twitter) account to shut down these rumors as “BS reports” and clarified the situation. Barrett stated that WWE granted him time off that was booked nearly nine months ago, emphasizing that his absence from commentary is nothing more than a pre-planned personal break. He reassured fans he will be returning to the announce desk after this period away[1][4]. He also dismissed insinuations that backstage tensions or professional conflicts may have influenced his temporary departure, particularly in light of past reports concerning friction with Nikki Bella following Clash In Paris[1].
Sources close to WWE confirm that this time off for Barrett is purely organizational and personal in nature, giving the broadcaster a warranted break rather than signaling any long-term shakeup in WWE’s commentary landscape. Observers note that while Cole and Graves will be calling action for both RAW and SmackDown during Barrett’s absence, this appears to be a stopgap solution rather than a permanent team change[1][2]. WWE fans who admire Wade Barrett’s compelling analytical style can expect to hear him again in the WWE broadcast booth soon.
Wade Barrett has served as a prominent voice in WWE’s commentary teams, bringing a unique perspective from his successful in-ring career.[3] Since transitioning to commentary full time, Barrett has been praised for his dynamic delivery and deep knowledge of professional wrestling, consistently ranking among the most respected commentators on WWE’s main roster. His work alongside the veteran Michael Cole has solidified an effective partnership that many fans and insiders enjoy.
This clarification from Barrett provides relief to a fan base worried about losing one of WWE’s top announcers. According to insider reports and Barrett’s own statements, no official decision has been made to remove him from the road permanently. Instead, WWE appears to be rotating commentary duties as part of normal personnel and logistical adjustments[1][4].
In addition to Barrett’s update, rumors have swirled about other commentary changes, including speculation about Pat McAfee’s potential return to WWE’s RAW commentary team. However, as of now, no confirmed announcements have been made regarding McAfee’s status or other long-term reshuffles[3].
The wrestling community can expect Wade Barrett’s presence on WWE programming to continue once he returns from his short break. His professionalism and expertise remain highly valued both by fans and the company. WWE’s commentary teams, including Michael Cole and Corey Graves, will no doubt continue to evolve, but based on current information, Barrett’s absence is temporary and unrelated to any disciplinary measures or contract disputes.
As always, wrestling news outlets such as PWInsider, Fightful, and PWMania will be monitoring WWE commentary developments closely, providing timely updates as they become available. For now, Wade Barrett fans can rest assured that the beloved commentator will be back behind the microphone soon, continuing to lend his voice to WWE’s flagship shows and enhancing the viewing experience for audiences worldwide.
According to a WWE insider familiar with the situation, Barrett’s time off was planned long before recent roster announcements, removing any doubts about his status as a valued member of WWE’s broadcast team.
This episode serves as a reminder of the fluid nature of WWE’s on-air rosters and the importance of verifying rumors through direct statements and credible sources. Wade Barrett’s quick response helped to dispel misinformation and demonstrate his ongoing commitment to WWE commentary.
Stay tuned for more updates on Wade Barrett and WWE’s commentary teams as further details arise.