The top promotor in professional wrestling has landed one of the biggest play-by-play voices in sports.
WWE announced Tuesday that Joe Tessitore, a versatile, veteran broadcaster known for his work in college football and boxing, will join the company as a play-by-play broadcaster beginning this summer.
In his role, Tessitore will work alongside analysts Wade Barrett and Corey Graves. In addition, Michael Cole and Pat McAfee will remain teamed up.
“Whether it’s a world title fight that’s got the globe buzzing or a college football rivalry that’s grabbed the nation’s attention, Joe’s voice provides that big event feel each time he is behind the microphone,” said WWE Chief Content Officer Paul “Triple H” Levesque.
“We’re excited for Joe to join legendary WWE broadcaster Michael Cole and our esteemed announce team, bringing his signature energy and meticulous preparation to our WWE telecasts each week.”
With nearly three decades of broadcasting experience, Tessitore is widely considered one of the industry’s foremost play-callers through his work with ESPN, where he will continue to appear on broadcasts.
Since 2002, he has been a key fixture on the network’s coverage of college football, calling ESPN and ABC Saturday Night primetime games, the College Football Playoff and marquee bowl games.
He is also well known as ESPN’s blow-by-blow commentator, having called memorable World Championship fights of Tyson Fury, Deontay Wilder, Terence Crawford, among many others.
“It’s an honor to be a part of WWE. The recent success and trajectory are undeniable,” Tessitore said. “Being there at WrestleMania XL, one could feel it – from Cody, Seth, Roman and The Rock, to creative and production, these are some of the very best storytellers in TV.”
“Corey and Wade are absolute stars and it is my privilege to join their team. Pat and Cole are just magical together and Cole is the greatest to ever sit in that chair. As a lifelong viewer, I’m humbled to join this team and to serve our fans.”
Tessitore has found success in entertainment, teaming with Rob Riggle and Stephen Curry on the comedy competition “Holey Moley.”
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