WWE Shuffles Commentary Teams as Raw Moves to Netflix

WWE has reshuffled its commentary teams ahead of “Raw“‘s move to Netflix, with Pat McAfee joining Michael Cole as the new color commentator for the flagship show. The changes, announced this week, also see Joe Tessitore moving from “Raw” to “SmackDown,” where he will work alongside Wade Barrett. Meanwhile, Corey Graves, a longtime staple of WWE’s broadcast team, has been reassigned to “NXT,” marking a significant shift in the company’s commentary lineup.

According to wrestling journalist Dave Meltzer, Graves’ move to “NXT” is temporary. Meltzer, speaking on “Wrestling Observer Radio,” revealed that Graves will return to the main roster after football season, when McAfee is expected to take a hiatus. “He’s going to be off until football season, then he’ll come back,” Meltzer said. “He was the best color guy they had, I mean he was the best, and now he’s in ‘NXT’ instead of on Netflix.”

Graves, who has been a key figure in WWE’s commentary team since retiring from in-ring competition in 2014 due to concussion issues, had been the play-by-play commentator for “SmackDown” since August 2023. His reassignment to “NXT” marks his first consistent role on WWE’s developmental brand since 2017. Meltzer noted that while Wade Barrett is a strong commentator, the decision to prioritize McAfee over Graves was driven by McAfee’s rising star power in the sports world.

McAfee, a former NFL punter turned media personality, has become a prominent figure in both sports and entertainment. His charisma and popularity have made him a valuable asset for WWE, particularly as the company expands its reach on streaming platforms. “They’re always going to go with Pat McAfee because these guys are into star power,” Meltzer added. “Man, McAfee’s become a huge star in the sports world, so they’re always going to go with him.”

The commentary shake-up comes as WWE continues to navigate its transition to new broadcasting partners. “Raw”‘s move to Netflix and “SmackDown”‘s shift to USA Network have prompted the company to reevaluate its on-air talent. Fans have expressed mixed reactions to the changes, with some praising McAfee’s energy and others lamenting Graves’ temporary demotion. As the new lineup settles in, all eyes will be on how these adjustments impact the viewing experience for WWE’s global audience.