Overview
- PWInsiderElite, as cited by multiple outlets, reports WWE has finalized plans to reshuffle lead commentary on Raw and SmackDown at the start of 2026.
- Michael Cole and Corey Graves are slated to take over Raw on January 5 in Brooklyn during the Netflix Raw anniversary broadcast.
- Joe Tessitore is expected to join Wade Barrett on SmackDown beginning January 2, the same night the show extends back to a three-hour runtime.
- At present, Tessitore and Barrett call Raw while Cole and Graves handle SmackDown, so the reported changes would constitute a brand swap.
- WWE has not formally announced the moves, with coverage characterizing the timing as a customary presentation refresh ahead of the Royal Rumble build.