Fans should get used to hearing Michael Cole on commentary for years to come, at least if Michael Cole is to be believed.
Cole has been with WWE for close to three decades after joining the promotion in 1997 on the recommendation of Todd Pettengill. A former war correspondent, Cole’s career in WWE has seen him call the action at countless events, enjoy a brief heel run, and even get a win at WrestleMania 27.
The Heir Apparent
With decades in the industry, Cole has developed a keen eye for what works and what doesn’t at the commentary table. In a recent interview with Awful Announcing, the veteran spoke about Corey Graves’ journey in WWE thus far and teaching him the proverbial ropes.
“[It was] a matter of giving him the opportunity to sit side by side for many years, to watch, learn, study, and see how I do things.”
Cole added that he is pleased that Graves was given the opportunity and sees a very bright future for the SmackDown commentator.
“And at the end of the day, when we gave him the shot? He’s been killing it. I believe he’s the heir apparent.”
Corey Graves
While Cole sees Graves as his heir, the 40-year-old is hardly a newbie to the commentary desk. After his in-ring retirement in 2014, Graves joined the NXT commentary team before being moved to the Raw desk in 2016. Graves current calls the action on SmackDown alongside Wade Barrett.
