The notion of pitting babyfaces (good guys) against heels (bad guys) is an age-old theme in professional wrestling, both in the ring and behind the commentary desk. While broadcast teams are traditionally occupied by both face and heel presences, the new “WWE SmackDown” commentary duo has a different dynamic. Following Kevin Patrick’s departure from WWE, Pat McAfee was brought back as Michael Cole’s commentary partner for “WWE Raw.” Meanwhile, Wade Barrett, who had previously sat beside Cole, was transferred to the “SmackDown” brand to fill the void left by Patrick. With this move, Barrett is now paired up with Corey Graves, signaling that “SmackDown” now has a dual-heel announce team.

Commentary teams, of course, play a crucial role in enhancing the viewer’s experience, but in wrestling, they have the added responsibility of enhancing the stories and characters of the onscreen performers. Heel commentators typically endorse their fellow heels, while babyface commentators support the heroes in the story, and condemn the often underhanded (and sometimes merciless) tactics used by the in-ring villains.

The heel-heel pairing of Barrett and Graves certainly has some compelling benefits, such as colorful banter, a strengthened chemistry, and an added layer of unpredictability. However, it could prove to be a significant disservice to the process of putting over rising babyface talents. Without a physical “voice of reason” there to advocate for the good guys, programming may be heavily skewed in favor of WWE’s villains, and thus, hinder the potential to push the babyface characters forward. The presence of excessive negativity could also make some viewers feel alienated. If (emphasis on if) executed well, though, “SmackDown”‘s full-heel commentary team could provide a fresh viewing experience and approach to the storytelling surrounding WWE’s diverse cast of faces and heels.