Joe Tessitore’s WWE Raw Debut: ESPN Veteran Brings New Energy to Commentary Booth

One big thing: ESPN’s Joe Tessitore made his WWE debut as a Raw commentator

Joe Tessitore, known for his work on ESPN, joined Wade Barrett in the commentary booth for WWE Raw last night, marking a significant shift in the show’s presentation.

• Tessitore received a warm welcome from fans, getting a massive ovation during his introduction.
• He described the experience as feeling “alive” and “living in the red.”
• The veteran broadcaster admitted he’s still learning but brought his childhood passion for wrestling to the role.

Why it matters

Tessitore’s addition to the Raw commentary team represents WWE’s ongoing efforts to bring in established sports broadcasters, potentially attracting new viewers and lending additional credibility to their product.

By the numbers

• This was Tessitore’s first night on WWE Raw after being brought into the fold months ago.
• Raw is WWE’s longest-running weekly episodic television show, airing since 1993.

What they’re saying

“I wasn’t great tonight, but I was a passionate fan tonight,” Tessitore said in a post-show interview, acknowledging his learning curve while emphasizing his enthusiasm.

The big picture

WWE continues to evolve its broadcasting approach, blending traditional wrestling commentary with mainstream sports presentation styles. Tessitore’s debut is part of this broader strategy to enhance the viewing experience and potentially attract a wider audience.

What’s next

Fans and critics will be watching closely to see how Tessitore develops in his new role and how his presence impacts Raw’s overall presentation in the coming weeks.

How do you think Joe Tessitore’s addition to the Raw commentary team will affect the show’s dynamic? Share your thoughts in the comments below.