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WWE's Michael Cole Names Favorite Matches & Moments From Career Of Late Hulk Hogan - Wrestling Inc.

Michael Cole Reflects on His Storied WWE Career: Favorite Matches, Iconic Moments, and a Nod to Hulk Hogan's Legacy

In the ever-evolving world of professional wrestling, few voices have become as synonymous with the spectacle as Michael Cole's. The longtime WWE commentator, whose career spans over two decades, recently opened up about some of the highlights that have defined his time behind the microphone. In a candid interview, Cole shared his personal favorites among the countless matches and moments he's called, offering fans a rare glimpse into the mind of one of wrestling's most enduring narrators. From heart-pounding rivalries to emotional milestones, Cole's recollections paint a vivid picture of WWE's rich history, while also touching on the enduring influence of legends like Hulk Hogan.

Cole's journey in WWE began in 1997, initially as a backstage interviewer before transitioning to play-by-play commentary. Over the years, he's witnessed the industry's transformation from the Attitude Era's raw intensity to the polished productions of today. When asked to pinpoint his favorite matches, Cole didn't hesitate to highlight those that not only showcased athletic prowess but also carried profound storytelling elements. One standout for him is the epic clash between The Undertaker and Shawn Michaels at WrestleMania 25 in 2009. Cole described it as a "masterpiece of wrestling artistry," emphasizing how the match transcended mere competition. "It was more than just moves and counters," he explained. "It was about two legends pouring their souls into the ring, creating a narrative that had the audience on the edge of their seats from start to finish." The match, which lasted over 30 minutes, featured dramatic near-falls, high-flying maneuvers, and an emotional depth that Cole says still gives him chills when he rewatches it. He credited the chemistry between The Undertaker's ominous presence and Michaels' charismatic flair for making it an unforgettable broadcast experience.

Another match that ranks high on Cole's list is the brutal encounter between Triple H and Cactus Jack (Mick Foley) in a Street Fight at the 2000 Royal Rumble. Cole recalled the sheer violence and unpredictability of the bout, where thumbtacks, barbed wire, and steel chairs turned the ring into a warzone. "That was raw, unfiltered wrestling at its best," Cole noted. "Calling that match tested every ounce of my descriptive abilities because the action was so chaotic and intense." He highlighted a particularly gruesome moment when Foley was pedigreed onto a bed of thumbtacks, a spot that elicited gasps from the live crowd and required Cole to convey the pain and resilience on display. This match, according to Cole, exemplified the Attitude Era's willingness to push boundaries, blending hardcore elements with compelling character work that kept viewers hooked.

Shifting from individual matches to broader moments, Cole delved into some of the most emotionally charged events he's narrated. One that stands out is The Rock's return to WWE in 2011, leading to his iconic feud with John Cena. Cole described the electricity in the air during The Rock's surprise appearance on "Monday Night Raw," where the crowd's roar was deafening. "That moment captured the magic of wrestling— the unpredictability and the fan connection," he said. Calling the subsequent promos and matches between The Rock and Cena allowed Cole to witness firsthand how star power could elevate an entire era. He also fondly remembered the emotional farewell of Edge in 2011, when the Rated-R Superstar was forced to retire due to injury. "Announcing that on live TV was heartbreaking," Cole admitted. "Edge's speech was genuine, and it reminded everyone of the human side of this business."

Cole's reflections wouldn't be complete without acknowledging the influence of wrestling icons on his career. He paid special tribute to Hulk Hogan, whose larger-than-life persona has left an indelible mark on WWE. While Hogan's heyday predates much of Cole's commentary tenure, Cole has called several of Hogan's later appearances, including his returns at WrestleMania events. "Hulk Hogan is the embodiment of wrestling's golden age," Cole stated. "His energy, the Hulkamania phenomenon—it's something that still resonates today." Cole recounted a particularly memorable moment from WrestleMania 30 in 2014, where Hogan hosted the event and shared the stage with The Rock and Stone Cold Steve Austin. "That opening segment was pure nostalgia," he said. "Hearing the crowd chant 'Hogan! Hogan!' while I narrated the reunion of these titans was surreal. It bridged generations and showed how Hogan's legacy continues to inspire."

Beyond specific matches and moments, Cole reflected on the evolution of his own role in WWE. He discussed the challenges of adapting to different broadcasting styles, from the high-octane commentary of the Ruthless Aggression Era to the more family-oriented approach of recent years. "I've had to reinvent myself multiple times," Cole explained. "Early on, I was the heel commentator, drawing heat from the fans. Now, I'm more of the straight man, focusing on storytelling." He credited mentors like Jim Ross and Jerry "The King" Lawler for shaping his style, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in commentary. "You have to believe in what you're saying to make the audience believe," he added.

Cole also touched on some underrated gems from his career, such as the technical masterpiece between Kurt Angle and Chris Benoit at the 2003 Royal Rumble. "That was pure wrestling clinic," he said, praising the chain wrestling and submissions that made it a clinic for aspiring grapplers. Another favorite was the Money in the Bank ladder match at WrestleMania 21 in 2005, where Edge claimed victory in a star-studded field. Cole highlighted the innovation of the match type, which has since become a WWE staple, and how it allowed him to build suspense through his calls.

Looking back, Cole expressed gratitude for the opportunities WWE has provided, noting that his career has been a front-row seat to history. He mentioned the thrill of international events like WrestleMania in different countries, where cultural nuances add layers to the broadcast. "Calling a match in front of 100,000 fans at WrestleMania is indescribable," he said. "But it's the quiet moments, like a wrestler's emotional victory, that stick with you."

In discussing Hulk Hogan's impact further, Cole drew parallels between Hogan's era and today's superstars. "Hogan set the template for what a global wrestling icon looks like," he observed. "From his red and yellow gear to his promos, he made wrestling mainstream. Even in his later years, appearances like at WrestleMania 18 against The Rock showed his enduring appeal." Cole shared a personal anecdote from commentating Hogan's match with The Rock, describing the crowd's divided loyalties and the generational clash that made it timeless. "It was like watching history unfold," he recalled.

Cole's favorites also include more recent highlights, such as Roman Reigns' dominant run as the Tribal Chief. He praised the long-term storytelling in Reigns' feuds with the likes of Brock Lesnar and Cody Rhodes, particularly the Bloodline saga. "That's modern wrestling at its finest—layers of drama, betrayal, and redemption," Cole said. He specifically lauded the main event of WrestleMania 39, where Reigns defended his title against Rhodes in a match filled with interference and high stakes. "Calling that felt like being part of a soap opera with athleticism," he joked.

As Cole continues to helm WWE's commentary booth, his reflections serve as a testament to the industry's depth. From the bone-crunching action of hardcore matches to the heartfelt retirements and legendary returns, his career encapsulates the essence of professional wrestling. And with nods to pioneers like Hulk Hogan, Cole reminds us that the past informs the present, ensuring the spectacle endures for generations to come. In an era where wrestling blends athleticism, entertainment, and emotion, Michael Cole's voice remains the thread weaving it all together. (Word count: 1,128)

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