Triple H Confirms Pat McAfee’s Return for WWE Wrestlepalooza on ESPN
WWE’s debut WrestlePalooza event is already shaping up to be a major crossover moment, and Triple H just confirmed a familiar voice will be part of the spectacle.
Appearing on SportsCenter to promote the September 20 event — streaming live on the ESPN app — WWE Chief Content Officer Triple H revealed that Pat McAfee will return to the company to handle commentary duties.
“September 20th, Wrestlepalooza, in the home of the one and only Pat McAfee, who’s like family to us. Pat will be there,” Triple H said. “He’s going to light the place up. It’s going to be exciting.”
McAfee’s Comeback
The announcement marks McAfee’s first official WWE appearance since the June 2 edition of RAW. At the time, he stepped away due to burnout, later explaining on his ESPN show that he needed to recharge.
With college football season in full swing, a permanent return to WWE seems unlikely — but his one-night role at Wrestlepalooza highlights the company’s strategy to maximize visibility on ESPN’s platform. McAfee’s energy and mainstream appeal make him a perfect bridge between WWE’s fanbase and ESPN’s broader sports audience.
🗣️ Wrestling.news | Backstage Take
This move isn’t just about bringing Pat McAfee back for nostalgia or fun — it’s smart business. WWE is making its ESPN debut with Wrestlepalooza, and pairing the event with McAfee’s charisma ensures casual viewers and die-hard fans alike will be tuned in.
McAfee isn’t expected to resume a full-time WWE role anytime soon, but his presence gives Wrestlepalooza that “big fight feel.” It’s a calculated play by Triple H and WWE to make sure their first ESPN special lands with impact.
