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5-Time Intercontinental Champion Announces WWE Hiatus

By Monika Thapa • Published Sep 07, 2025 08:43 EDT
wwe logo over wade barrett

Recently, Michael Cole and Corey Graves took over as the new commentary team for WWE SmackDown, replacing former commentators Wade Barrett and Joe Tessitore.

Tessitore presumably stepped away due to his college football commitments, while Wade Barrett’s absence sparked rumors and speculation among fans and insiders. Many believed Barrett’s absence is related to an ongoing backstage conflict with Hall of Famer Nikki Bella.

This tension came to light following Barrett’s comments during the Clash in Paris pre-show, where he described Nikki as “desperate” to prove her worth against newer talent.

The Fearless star later discussed on her Nikki & Brie Show how the 5-time Intercontinental Champion avoided her on Monday Night Raw after those comments, escalating the perceived rift. Barrett, however, seemed confused by Bella’s reactions and said he was unaware of the extent of her displeasure.

Despite the initial misunderstandings and public exchanges, both have since reconciled. Barrett took to social media to confirm they had a private conversation and smoothed things over, emphasizing respect and calling for an end to the personal abuse Bella received from fans.

“Great news, fight fans.. @NikkiAndBrie and I have spoken, we’ve smoothed things over, and I’ve graciously been allowed back into the Bella Army. Fully paid-up member since FCW 2008 🤝🏻🍷

“A difference of perspective – to which we are all entitled – but to be clear, some of the personal abuse that gets sent to Nikki on here is reprehensible and completely out of line, so let’s cut that out immediately.”

Wade Barrett Is Absent From WWE Because He Is on a Planned Hiatus

Wade Barrett subsequently announced that his absence was for personal reasons unrelated to the Nikki Bella situation. He revealed the leave was planned and booked nine months in advance. He reassured fans that the time off was simply personal and that he intended to return after a couple of weeks. Meanwhile, Michael Cole and Corey Graves will continue to call SmackDown and Raw for the foreseeable future, filling in for Barrett and Tessitore.

I usually ignore BS reports like this, but it’s causing needless hate to be spewed towards people I work with. WWE have kindly given me a couple of weeks off for personal time (booked nine months ago), and then I’m back to business as usual. A complete non-story. The end.