Michael Cole Could Wear Tank Top After NBA Bet Loss

STAMFORD, Conn. — WWE commentator Michael Cole might be seen in a tank top on an upcoming episode of “WWE Raw” following a bet with fellow commentator Pat McAfee. The wager arose during the NBA Playoffs Eastern Conference finals, where Cole supported his hometown New York Knicks and McAfee backed the Indiana Pacers.

The Pacers emerged victorious in the series, winning 4-2, which means Cole may have to honor the bet. McAfee stated on “Raw,” “If the Pacers win, Michael Cole would do an entire Raw in a tank top. And if the Knicks win — which they won’t — Pacers will win in five, maybe six, we’ll see.”

When Cole questioned McAfee about his own attire if the tables were turned, McAfee confidently replied, “I will wear a full suit.”

Tyrese Haliburton, a standout on the Pacers and a longtime WWE fan, was also part of the discussions. Haliburton has made several appearances on WWE programming and was on “Raw” to promote the WWE 2K25 Dunk & Destruction Pack, where Cole provided commentary.

Haliburton noted the rivalry between the Pacers and the Knicks, citing it as similar to the famous feud between WWE legends Stone Cold Steve Austin and The Rock. He recalled his head-to-head encounter with Knicks player Jalen Brunson on “WWE SmackDown” last year, where Haliburton supported Logan Paul while Brunson was allied with LA Knight.