The reason why WWE is changing the announce teams for RAW and SmackDown in 2026

It was reported by Mike Johnson of PWInsider.com that starting with the January 2nd 2026 edition of SmackDown, the announce teams for RAW and SmackDown will be changed. Joe Tessitore moves to SmackDown along with Wade Barrett, while RAW will be called by Michael Cole and Corey Graves.

The switch traces back to September, when the teams were adjusted because Tessitore calls college football on Saturdays. With the preparation and travel involved, he couldn’t work Fridays during the fall, leading to Cole shifting over at that time.

There was no mention of Pat McAfee, who was said to have been burned out last year before college football season began. As of now, there has been no official word on McAfee’s status since his departure from RAW.