Why Was Michael Cole Absent from WWE SmackDown?

As a seasoned gamer who has witnessed countless wrestling matches and commentary shifts, I must admit, it was quite unusual to see Wade Barrett take Michael Cole’s spot on SmackDown last week. However, I’ve learned over the years that even the most dedicated professionals need a break now and then.


In the most recent episode of WWE SmackDown, long-time commentator Michael Cole was absent. Instead, WWE RAW commentator Wade Barrett stepped in for him.

2024 found me at the Colonial Life Arena in Columbia, South Carolina for a thrilling SmackDown event! The lineup was stacked with heavyweights like Roman Reigns, LA Knight, and The Usos. Fans were treated to an exciting match where DIY took down The Street Profits & Pretty Deadly, earning their spot in the WWE Tag Team Title number one contender’s tournament. On a different note, Motor City Machine Guns clinched victory against A-Town Down Under & Los Garza, also advancing in the tournament. What an adrenaline rush!

On their first appearance, Motor City Machine Guns left a mark. In the upcoming episode of WWE SmackDown, they’ll go head-to-head with DIY. Meanwhile, Lash Legend emerged victorious against Piper Niven, while Nia Jax and Candice LeRae joined forces to beat Bayley and Naomi. Interestingly, it was Candice LeRae who pinned Bayley to secure the win for their team. Lastly, WWE Undisputed Champion Cody Rhodes extended a challenge to Gunther for the next SmackDown event.

Although the program was filled with exciting events, viewers promptly pointed out the conspicuous absence of Michael Cole, a figure who seldom misses broadcasts. Recently, this long-standing commentator has disclosed the reason behind his non-appearance at last week’s WWE SmackDown episode.

Michael Cole reveals he took a family holiday

Michael Cole, WWE commentator, spoke in an interview with WFAN and shared that he would be taking a ten-day trip to Cozumel, Mexico, which coincided with his absence from SmackDown. It is important to mention that the show was actually taped on October 12th, prior to Cole’s vacation departure.

At the performance, it was revealed that Cole had extended his contract with WWE, meaning he’ll be sticking around for quite some time. He hinted that he would reappear on RAW when the program shifts to Netflix at the start of 2025.

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2024-10-21 21:10