-- Earlier this week, WWE commentator Wade Barrett went on record to state that he and Michael Cole will be calling the action on Friday Night Smackdown on a pretty much permanent basis. Barrett's role is firm with Pat McAfee has a lot on his plate for the time being. McAfee acknowledged his absence today in a tweet, noting that between his business and a new baby on the way, he will have to put wrestling on hold but that the "dream isn't done" and he has plans to continue his journey into the WWE Hall of Fame.
A lot of wrestling chatter about me right now..
I think about wrestling everyday..that dream isn’t done.
My business is currently rather active and exigent…+ baby on the way…timing is everything
I still have MASSIVE plans for my journey to the WWE HOF someday.
Believe that. pic.twitter.com/WzBZcPL6M2— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) March 17, 2023