WWE commentator Michael Cole references Ric Flair on SmackDown

During the September 19, 2026, episode of WWE SmackDown in Corpus Christi, Texas, commentator Michael Cole referenced AEW star Ric Flair while discussing Randy Orton’s championship pursuit. Cole noted that Orton currently ranks third on the all-time list for recognized world title reigns, trailing only John Cena and Ric Flair.

The mention of Flair follows recent public comments regarding his contract status. While Flair previously suggested he might return to WWE for appearances, he later clarified on social media that he remains under contract with AEW and will not work for WWE while that deal is active out of respect for AEW President Tony Khan.

In other SmackDown developments, Michael Cole also misidentified superstar Candice LeRae as “Candice Michelle” during a chaotic Undisputed WWE Championship main event involving Sami Zayn, Kevin Owens, and CM Punk. The error marks a repeat of a similar mistake made by Cole during WWE Evolution 2025.