WWE’s Most Legendary Announcers and Commentators
It would be hard to imagine a World Wrestling Entertainment event without exciting in-ring action, engrossing storylines, and superhuman larger-than-life characters. The other significant component in a WWE event that has been very instrumental is the commentary team. From their legendary announcers to commentators, it worked magic on the action, bringing context, drama, and excitement round-by-round. This is an article on the most legendary announcers and commentators in WWE history, covering what each has brought to the table and how they have made a long-lasting impression on professional wrestling. The Golden Voice of Wrestling: Gordon Solie Early Career and InfluenceAnother “Dean of Wrestling Commentators” was Gordon Solie. Most of his work was linked to Championship Wrestling from Florida and Georgia Championship Wrestling. However, he had some influence that went into WWE as well. Conversations were articulate-indeed, serious. Solie took professional wrestling as seriously as any other sport is accorded. He could translate wrestling visually as an athletic, dramatic event that endeared him to the fans, and he became a mentor for many future commentators. LegacyIn this regard, Solie has left an indelible mark on wrestling commentary. Backed by a style of telling a story coupled with technical expertise, which he had made his hallmark in commentary, it set up standards for the next generation. His influence is reflected in a host of WWE commentators who followed in his footsteps and brought legitimacy and passion to their roles. The Voice of WWE: Good Ol’ Jim Ross Early Career and Rise to ProminenceJim Ross—more endearingly, “JR”—holds the title easily as the most iconic voice across the whole history of WWE. Ross himself began to break into the wrestling business in the mid-1970s, first working for a bunch of regional promotions before ending up at WWE in the very early 1990s. His booming, thunderous, Southern drawl and the passion that each man puts into his delivery made him something more or less appreciated immediately by fans. Ross’s style combines deep knowledge of the wrestling business with a passion for what is happening in the ring to make every match feel important. Memorable MomentsDuring Ross’s tenure, he was the voice for some of WWE’s most memorable moments. From Stone Cold Steve Austin’s numerous wins to some of the epic encounters featuring The Undertaker, Ross’s commentary raised the level of a whole spate of memorable events. Phrases like “Stone Cold! Stone Cold!” and “Good God Almighty, they’ve killed him!” are hardwired into wrestling lore as testimony to Ross’s ability to use the power of words Atos translates with the intensity and drama of WWE action. Legacy and ImpactJim Ross’s contribution to WWE has been immense. He has inspired millions of fans and would-be commentators alike through his work. It is added that Ross’s commitment to storytelling and his earnest love for wrestling left an almost indelible mark on this business. Even after Ross finally parted ways with WWE, his legacy remained and carried forward to other wrestling promotions, bringing experience and passion into the game. King: Jerry Lawler From the Wrestling Career to CommentaryJerry “The King” Lawler is a one-of-a-kind wrestling personality who did as much inside the ring as he did from the commentary table. Signing with WWE in the early 1990s, originally Lawler was billed for a career in the ring before transitioning to the commentary booth. His pairing with Jim Ross arguably created one of the all-time favorite commentary teams among wrestling fans. Colorful and having a flair for humor, Lawler held an independent balance with Ross. Signature Style and ContributionsQuick wit, humorous quips, and sometimes a mischievous persona were synonymous with Lawler’s commentary. He brought fun and entertainment to WWE broadcasts while displaying vast wrestling knowledge. It was the enthusiasm and charisma of Lawler that helped endear him to the fans, and his commentary work through the Attitude Era helped define a generation of WWE programs. LegacyIt is because of his contribution to WWE commentary that Jerry Lawler can claim himself to be an industry legend. His ability to entertain and engage, combined with wrestling knowledge, brought about the makings of someone that would be integral for WWE broadcasts for years to come. The influence of Lawler is felt maybe in many commentators who followed by mixing humor and insight to enrich the viewing pleasure. The Attitude Era Voice: Michael Cole Early Career and WWE DebutMichael Cole broke into WWE during the tail end of the 1990s, working primarily as a backstage interviewer and sometimes as a commentator. It was during the Attitude Era that Cole’s career started to take off, which saw him become a regular presence on WWE broadcasts. Years later, Cole has carved out his style—professionalism nowadays blends with an understanding of WWE storytelling. Signature Style and Memorable MomentsCole is a refined commentator; he’s good at making WWE storylines dramatic. He’s called some of the greatest moments in WWE history—gut-busting WrestleMania matches and jaw-dropping plot twists. But it was his professionalism and reliability that have established, without question, his role as the reference voice for WWE, guiding viewers through all the ups and downs in their programs. Legacy and ImpactLongevity and multifunctionality are the two most precise definitions of Michael Cole’s legacy in the WWE. He had this role as the lead commentator for WWE’s key programming, and through his commentary over a period spanning upwards of two decades, he shaped much of the storylines of several eras of the WWE. His ability to fit in different eras and storylines has ultimately solidified him as one of the more timeless figures involved in WWE commentary.Cole’s work continues to influence new generations of commentators, ensuring that his impact on the industry will be felt for years to come. The Innovator: Gorilla Monsoon Wrestling Career and Transition into CommentaryGorilla Monsoon was a retired wrestler who moved on to become one of the better commentators in WWE. The tag team of Monsoon and Bobby “The Brain” Heenan produced what many regard as one of the greatest commentary teams in wrestling
Ringside Rivalry: Michael Cole Targets United States Champion Austin Theory with Scathing Remarks on SmackDown
Austin Theory’s recent run as WWE United States Champion has not only caught the eye of the fans but also seems to have ignited new rivalries both in and outside the ring. Having successfully defended the title against the likes of Bobby Lashley and Bronson Reed at WWE Backlash 2023, Theory’s dominance is undeniable. But with success comes attention, and some are ready to target the young champion, including SmackDown commentator Michael Cole. Cole’s Controversial Comments During the latest episode of Friday Night SmackDown, Austin Theory made his presence known by appearing in the skybox to observe the finals of the United States Championship Invitational. It was here that Michael Cole, the veteran commentator, seized the opportunity to take a shot at Theory. “In a skybox, with all his friends. There’s the United States Champion Austin Theory,” Cole remarked, drawing attention to the champion’s lonesome appearance. This comment was clearly aimed at undermining Theory’s position in the locker room and questioning his alliances and friendships within the WWE Universe. A History of Heated Words Michael Cole’s comments are not isolated; there’s a history of heated words between WWE personalities. Bayley, who has been on a notorious heel run since 2019, has often targeted Cole with her sharp and cutting remarks. The interplay between commentators and wrestlers adds an intriguing dimension to WWE storylines, and this incident is a prime example of how even a simple comment can fuel future rivalries and confrontations. Repercussions and Future Implications The question now is whether Michael Cole’s comments will be dismissed as mere banter or whether they signal a deeper issue between him and Austin Theory. As the United States Champion, Theory has no shortage of challengers vying for his title, and this latest incident may spur further tension and conflicts in the weeks to come. Could Michael Cole’s words lead to an in-ring confrontation? Or will they merely add to the growing list of superstars gunning for A-Town’s title? Only time will tell. Austin Theory’s rise to the top of the WWE has been swift and impactful, but with his increased profile comes increased scrutiny. Michael Cole’s shot at the United States Champion highlights the complex and ever-changing dynamics within the WWE, where words can be as powerful as wrestling moves. As fans eagerly await the next chapter in this unfolding drama, the spotlight continues to shine brightly on Austin Theory. His response to Cole’s jab, as well as his future as United States Champion, will be closely watched in the coming weeks. Whether he takes Cole’s comments to heart or shrugs them off, one thing is for sure: Austin Theory’s time in the WWE is getting more interesting by the day.
