As WWE shakes things up with its season premieres, the commentary teams too will get an overhaul, Variety reports.
On SmackDown’s season premiere episode, the commentary team will consist of Michael Cole and Wade Barrett. Barrett will shift from NXT to SmackDown as part of the overhaul. Samantha Irvin will be the ring announcer, with Kayla Braxton and Megan Morant as backstage interviewers.
SmackDown commentator Pat McAfee announced in early September that he would take a leave of absence from WWE for some time to fulfil his duties as an analyst on ESPN’s College Gameday. He will return to the commentary table after the college football season concludes.
On Raw, Kevin Patrick and Corey Graves will serve as the main commentators, with Jimmy Smith and Byron Saxton being removed. On WWE Main Event, Patrick worked as a backstage correspondent and play-by-play commentator. He also hosted Raw Talk. Mike Rome will be the ring announcer, with Cathy Kelley and Byron Saxton handling interviews.
Vic Joseph and WWE Hall of Famer Booker T will serve as the voices for the black and yellow brand. Alicia Tyler will be the ring announcer, with McKenzie Mitchell retaining her role as the backstage interviewer for the brand.
Cole and Graves will work together for PPV and other major events.
