WWE RAW commentator Michael Cole might have to call a show wearing a tank top following a bet he made with fellow commentator Pat McAfee. The wager was based on the NBA Playoff Eastern Conference Finals between the Indiana Pacers and the New York Knicks. Although McAfee initially supported the Knicks, he bet on the Pacers, who ultimately won the series 4-2. As a result, Cole is expected to don a tank top on upcoming RAW episodes.
Pat McAfee mentioned on RAW, “If the Pacers win, Michael Cole will do a whole RAW segment in a tank top. We might see it for 5 or 6 games.” When asked what he would wear if he lost, McAfee promised to wear a suit. The Pacers’ roster features Tyrese Haliburton, a long-time WWE fan who has appeared on WWE TV multiple times. Haliburton recently promoted the WWE 2K25 Dunk & Destruction Pack on RAW, where Cole provided commentary. The rivalry between the Pacers and Knicks was likened to the legendary feud between Stone Cold Steve Austin and The Rock. This rivalry was further highlighted when Haliburton confronted Knicks’ Jalen Brunson on WWE SmackDown last year. Haliburton is associated with La Knight, and their showdown was also recently mentioned by Knicks player Josh Hart.
Fan Take: This playful crossover between WWE and NBA adds a fresh dynamic to WWE programming, showing how sports entertainment can blend with mainstream sports culture. It not only entertains fans but also helps WWE tap into new audiences, keeping the product lively and relevant.
