WWE provides an update on Pat McAfee’s return to the promotion

Pat McAfee has not been seen on WWE TV since his last appearance at the Royal Rumble this year; WWE finally provided an update regarding the status of his return.

WWE provides an update on Pat McAfee’s return to the promotion

McAfee at the Royal Rumble 2023(via-FightFans)

Pat McAfee is a former American football punter who played in the NFL for eight seasons. He played for the Indianapolis Colts from 2009 to 2016 and after his retirement from the NFL in 2017 he pursued a career in broadcasting. Since retiring from football, Pat McAfee has become a popular sports broadcaster, working as an analyst for ESPN and as a commentator for WWE. McAfee rose to fame after becoming a commentator for Friday Night SmackDown on FOX in April 2021. He also hosts his own podcast, “The Pat McAfee Show.”

McAfee’s addition to the SmackDown commentary team was well-received by fans and critics alike. With many praising his enthusiasm, knowledge of the product, and ability to provide entertaining and insightful commentary. McAfee’s chemistry with fellow commentators Michael Cole and Corey Graves was also praised.

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In September last year, Pat went off the TV from WWE, following his new role in the ESPN College Gameday. After months of hiatus, The Boomstick surprised the fans and even WWE officials with his return to commentary at the Royal Rumble. However, it turned out to be a one-night appearance only, as he still hasn’t shown up on WWE TV since then.

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The WWE has confirmed that McAfee won’t be returning to the commentary or in-ring competition anytime soon. According to reports, there were plans for him to appear at WrestleMania 39, and also at the shows prior to the Show of Shows. Fans might be dejected hearing this news. Nonetheless, they should stay tuned for more updates regarding Pat’s return to WWE.

Related: Pat McAfee comments on his future obligations with WWE

Wade Barrett reflects on Pat McAfee being away from WWE

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Barrett and McAfee on commentary

Ever since Pat McAfee left the SmackDown commentary last year, Michael Cole was joined by Wade Barrett. It’s hard to tell whether Barrett has been able to fill the void of Pat’s charismatic commentary. However, the former Nexus leader has managed to be a great companion to Michael Cole on SmackDown.

During a recent interview with The Daily Star, Barrett informed everyone that his role as the SmackDown commentator is now permanent following McAfee’s disappearance. The former Intercontinental champion also addressed the possibility of Pat’s return.

Barrett said, “Pat McAfee is always going to be a friend of WWE. He’s an incredibly talented guy and we’re all fans of his, too, but he has a lot on his plate.” In the words of Bad News Barrett, “I’m afraid I’ve got some bad news” regarding McAfee’s comeback.

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