The announce team faced unexpected chaos during the April 21 edition of RAW from the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Pat McAfee became the target of Gunther’s aggression in a violent confrontation that left McAfee unable to complete his commentary duties for the show.
The altercation unfolded when Gunther approached the commentary desk where Michael Cole and Pat McAfee were stationed. The former champion initially directed his frustration toward Cole, attempting to lock in a sleeper hold on the veteran announcer. McAfee quickly stepped in to defend his broadcast partner, which prompted both men to engage in a physical struggle around the ringside area.
Despite McAfee’s intervention, Gunther ultimately overwhelmed the commentator and applied a sleeper hold that forced McAfee from his position. Several members of The Pat McAfee Show who were seated in the audience attempted to provide assistance during the attack.
Following the assault, McAfee was escorted from the broadcast area and did not return for the final 45 minutes of Raw. Joe Tessitore, normally assigned to SmackDown commentary duties, stepped in to replace McAfee alongside Cole for the remainder of the broadcast.
