Known for his top-notch play-by-play commentary in college football, ESPN's Joe Tessitore has been hired by WWE as the lead voice for one of their broadcast teams. Tessitore will join Corey Graves and Wade Barrett on “Smackdown” on Friday nights, while Michael Cole and Pat McAfee will take over “Raw” on Monday nights.
“I think Corey and Wade are absolute stars in the making,” Tessitore told ESPN. “I've watched Michael Cole throughout his career, and he deserves to be mentioned among the great major network broadcasters of our generation. I'm truly honored to stand alongside him.”
The addition of Tessitore as a play-by-play commentator allows Graves to return to his familiar role as color commentator. Graves had moved to the play-by-play position for “Smackdown” in January after WWE parted ways with Kevin Patrick.
A lifelong wrestling fan, Tessitore has wrestling broadcast experience, having led ESPN's coverage of “WrestleMania” to “SportsCenter” for the past three years.
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“WWE is the most unique television show out there,” added Tessitore. “It's live, theatrical-level entertainment while also being a network-level sporting event. That takes a unique skill set to call. There's no relegation or distance, no scoreboard. You have to have the eye to create anticipation.
During his time with ESPN and ABC, Tessitore has covered major moments in college football and boxing. He has called several championship boxing matches with stars such as Tyson Fury, Deontay Wilder and Terence Crawford. Tessitore has also been part of ESPN's “Monday Night Football” broadcasts, the NFL Pro Bowl and wild-card playoff games on ABC.
Tessitore's start date has not been announced, but he will begin his new role this summer.
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