Pat McAfee Doesn't Expect WWE Return Anytime Soon

Former WWE commentator feels the business has 'passed him by' and is content with current state of the company

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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In a recent Q&A on Instagram, former WWE commentator Pat McAfee expressed doubts about a potential return to the company, stating that he feels the business has 'passed him by' and that WWE is 'in a good spot' without him. McAfee previously took a temporary step back from WWE in 2025 due to burnout from his busy schedule, which included his daily talk show and college football broadcasting duties.

Why it matters

McAfee was a popular figure during his time with WWE, serving as a color commentator alongside Michael Cole. His departure in 2025 was seen as a significant loss for the company, but his latest comments suggest he may not be interested in a full-time return anytime soon, potentially leaving a void in WWE's broadcast team.

The details

During the Q&A, McAfee said that while he doesn't rule out a future return to WWE, he doesn't feel it's 'something that's supposed to happen' right now. He cited feeling like the business has 'passed him by' and that WWE is 'in a good spot' without him. McAfee previously took a break from WWE in 2025 due to burnout from his busy schedule, which included his daily talk show and college football broadcasting duties for ESPN. He did make a one-off appearance at Wrestlepalooza last September in his hometown of Indianapolis.

  • In July 2025, McAfee announced he was taking a temporary step back from WWE.
  • McAfee made an appearance at Wrestlepalooza in Indianapolis in September 2025.

The players

Pat McAfee

A former WWE commentator who is now focusing on his daily talk show and acting career, including roles in the upcoming Paramount+ series 'Tulsa King' and the Netflix film 'The Mosquito Bowl'.

Michael Cole

The lead commentator for WWE, who worked alongside McAfee during his time with the company.

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What they’re saying

“Will I be returning to the WWE in the future? I don't think you ever say never, you know, especially with the WWE. But right now, it does not feel like it is something that's supposed to happen. It feels like that business has kind of passed me by a little bit.”

— Pat McAfee (Instagram)

The takeaway

McAfee's comments suggest that while the door may not be completely closed on a WWE return, he currently feels the company has moved on without him and he is content focusing on his other professional endeavors, including his talk show, acting roles, and spending more time with his growing family.