PWI Weekly for February 17, 2025
Let's Hear It For The Announce Team!
ON THIS DATE in 2014, Jimmy Fallon replaced Jay Leno as host of The Tonight Show. NBC had attempted to replace Leno once before, but it had been short-lived. Conan O’Brien was controversially ousted as host after a dip in ratings that ultimately resulted in Leno returning to the famous desk.
Fallon has held the post admirably since 2014, but many still long for the days of Leno, Johnny Carson, and even O’Brien. Wrestling fans often go through the same kind of emotions when it comes to their favorite commentators. The men and women behind the announce desk soundtrack our fandom, and, in some ways, are as much a part of the show as those in the ring.
This edition of the PWI Weekly, is a tip of good ol’ J.R.’s hat to some of the sport’s finest commentators.
COMMENTATOR OF THE WEEK
Michael Cole long ago cemented his legacy as one of the premier voices in WWE, becoming the defining commentator for an entire generation of wrestling fans. Initially met with skepticism when he joined the promotion in the late-1990s, Cole has evolved into a polished and passionate storyteller who elevates WWE programming. Whether calling iconic WrestleMania matches, navigating the chaos of live television, or anchoring a new generation of talent at the commentary desk, Cole has consistently delivered. His work ethic, adaptability, and genuine love for wrestling have seen him outlast and outperform many in what is a very difficult job. And while many have benefited since Vince McMahon was removed from the Gorilla position, perhaps no one has done so more than Cole. WWE’s lead announcer is now a much looser, more relaxed version of himself—and a man who seems to be having the time of his life at work.
A QUICK WORD ABOUT
The transition from in-ring competitor to commentator can often be a difficult one to make. And for Taz, that was arguably the case. The man from the Red Hook section of Brooklyn, New York, first sat behind an announce desk at the turn of the millennium, and the initial reviews were, well … not great. But just as he had done in his wrestling career, “The Human Suplex Machine” worked tirelessly to improve his game and reach the top. And at the top is where he sits today. Taz has become one of the standout commentators in AEW—and one of the industry’s top color commentators—bringing a unique mix of humor, insight, and charisma to the broadcast team. Drawing from his extensive in-ring career, he offers sharp, technical analysis that enhances the storytelling in the ring. Beat that, if you can …
MUSINGS, WITH MATT BROCK
Ah, the golden days of wrestling commentary. Back when the men behind the mics were cut from the same cloth as those in the ring. They weren’t just announcers back then; they were storytellers, craftsmen and—that’s right—broadcast journalists! They brought the matches to life for anyone not lucky enough to be ringside.
Gordon Solie didn’t need flashy attire or a gimmick to become the dean of wrestling announcers. He was simply himself. Solie’s voice had gravitas; every word carried weight. He treated wrestling like the sport it is, dissecting holds and strategies with the precision of a surgeon.
Then, there was Lance Russell, the voice of Memphis wrestling. Lance had this way of making you feel like you were part of the family. His calm demeanor and sly wit balanced the chaos around him, whether it was Jerry Lawler throwing fireballs or unruly fans screaming their heads off.
And let’s not forget the eclectic (and electric) pairing of Gorilla Monsoon and Bobby Heenan. Gorilla’s jovial authority paired with “The Brain’s” quick-witted barbs to create utter magic.
For my money, no one quite conveyed emotion like Jim Ross. JR called every match like it was a proper sporting contest. He made you believe that the outcome mattered. And if that meant getting fired up, that was when Jim was at his BBQ’ing best.
These days, I’m hard-pressed to remember the names of the guys calling the shows most weeks. Today’s commentators would be wise to study the masters I’ve name-checked here. They were the glue that held the shows together. These days, it all too often feels like background noise.
FROM THE VAULT
Pat McAfee gets ready for a celebratory beer bash with “Stone Cold” Steve Austin at WrestleMania 38—one that would end with the former Indianapolis Colts kicker eating a Stone Cold Stunner.
Despite his occasional in-ring exploits, McAfee is best known to WWE fans as a wildly enthusiastic color commentator. His style is brash, over the top, and decidedly no-frills. Yet, those everyman qualities have endeared McAfee to many wrestling enthusiasts, who feel represented by having an unabashed fan—someone, in many ways, just like them—positioned behind the announce table.