Tommy Dreamer Praises Corey Graves’ Return to RAW Commentary Desk – ECW legend Tommy Dreamer had high praise for Corey Graves following his return to the RAW announce desk on the June 16 episode. Speaking on his Busted Open After Dark podcast, Dreamer lauded Graves’ performance and the chemistry he shares with Michael Cole, calling it a refreshing and effective dynamic in WWE commentary.
Graves filled in for Pat McAfee, who was absent from RAW due to likely obligations tied to the NBA Finals. The substitution was well-received, especially by Dreamer, who said, “Nice to see Corey Graves back. I thought he did a wonderful job. Him and Michael Cole have such a great synergy and chemistry together.”
Dreamer also spotlighted Graves’ rare commitment to the traditional heel color commentator role, something that has become less common in modern wrestling broadcasts. “And he’s one of the few guys that actually plays a heelish role,” Dreamer emphasized.
Graves previously held full-time commentary duties on both RAW and SmackDown for several years before being replaced on SmackDown by Pat McAfee, who eventually joined RAW as well. Since then, Graves has made more sporadic appearances on WWE’s flagship shows.
Fans seemed to echo Dreamer’s sentiments, praising the broadcast online for its energy and the familiar chemistry between Graves and Cole. The duo have long been considered a strong pairing, with Graves offering quick wit and a subtle antagonist tone, complementing Cole’s veteran play-by-play approach.
Dreamer’s comments reflect a broader appreciation for the lost art of nuanced heel commentary, a role once made iconic by figures like Bobby “The Brain” Heenan and Jesse Ventura. Graves’ presence on RAW this week brought a sense of that old-school energy, and it didn’t go unnoticed.
Whether or not Graves will continue to appear in McAfee’s absence remains unclear, but his return was clearly welcomed by both fans and industry veterans alike.
Tommy Dreamer Praises Corey Graves’ Return to RAW Commentary Desk
