Wrestlemania Viewers Criticize Commentator's Botched Match Announcement

Michael Cole incorrectly announced the Women's Intercontinental Championship match instead of the highly anticipated Fatal 4-Way Tag Team Match.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 12:22am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the dynamic movements and clashing colors of a Wrestlemania women's tag team match, capturing the raw intensity of the event.A cubist interpretation of the chaotic energy and high-stakes action of a Wrestlemania women's tag team match.Las Vegas Today

During the live broadcast of WrestleMania 42 in Las Vegas, veteran WWE commentator Michael Cole made a notable blunder when he announced the wrong upcoming match. Instead of introducing the anticipated Fatal 4-Way Tag Team Match featuring Charlotte Flair, Alexa Bliss, Bayley, Lyra Valkyria, and The Bella Twins, Cole mistakenly stated that the Women's Intercontinental Championship match between AJ Lee and Becky Lynch was next. This error caused confusion among viewers who were eagerly awaiting the tag team showdown.

Why it matters

Wrestlemania is WWE's biggest annual event, drawing massive viewership and attention. Commentator mistakes during the live broadcast can be jarring for fans and detract from the overall experience. This blunder by the veteran Cole highlights the high-pressure nature of calling such a major event and the importance of maintaining accuracy and pacing for the audience.

The details

As Cole was set to introduce the Fatal 4-Way Tag Team Match, he instead stated, "Here tonight, plenty of action on tap for WrestleMania Saturday. We have the Women's Intercontinental Championship in a..." before pausing and then correcting himself to say it was actually the Women's World Championship match between Stephanie Vaquer and Liv Morgan. A graphic for that match then appeared on the screen, further confusing viewers who were expecting the tag team bout.

  • WrestleMania 42 took place on April 18, 2026 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
  • The Women's Intercontinental Championship and Women's World Championship matches were scheduled for later in the event.

The players

Michael Cole

A veteran WWE commentator who has been the lead play-by-play announcer for the company since 1997.

Charlotte Flair

A professional wrestler and member of the Flair wrestling dynasty, known for her success in WWE's women's division.

Alexa Bliss

A five-time WWE Women's Champion and one of the top female wrestlers in the company.

Bayley

A former WWE Women's Champion and member of the popular tag team 'The Boss 'n' Hug Connection'.

Lyra Valkyria

A rising star in WWE's women's division, making her WrestleMania debut in the Fatal 4-Way Tag Team Match.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

WWE will likely review the incident with Michael Cole and provide additional training to ensure smoother commentary during future major events.

The takeaway

This Wrestlemania blunder by veteran commentator Michael Cole underscores the high-pressure nature of live event broadcasting and the importance of maintaining focus and accuracy, even during the biggest shows of the year. While mistakes can happen, WWE will need to address this issue to preserve the experience for its passionate fanbase.