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As the NBA Playoffs roll toward the Eastern Conference Finals, Pat McAfee has found himself in the middle of the action - not on the court, but in the WWE ring.
The former Indianapolis Colts punter and current WWE personality has long been a proud er of the Indiana Pacers, and now he's putting his personal style on the line in of his hometown team.
During the May 19 edition of WWE RAW, McAfee was ed ringside by his commentary partner Michael Cole when the conversation turned to basketball.
The pair discussed the looming playoff showdown between the Pacers and the New York Knicks, two teams with strong NBA histories and a pair of superstar fans - Cole and McAfee themselves.
Cole, ever the Knicks backer, decided to raise the stakes on-air. "Two friends of WWE, Tyrese Haliburton of the Indiana Pacers, Jaylen Brunson of the New York Knicks, massive WWE fans.
Faceoff starting Wednesday night. Eastern Conference Finals of the NBA Playoffs," Cole said. Then came the challenge: "Pat, I think we've got to bet on this?"
McAfee didn't hesitate. "That's right," he responded. "The Pacers win, Cole will do an entire RAW episode in a tank top. And if the Knicks win, I will do an episode in a suit like Cole."
Wager could break tradition
This is no small wager for either man. Pat McAfee has become known for his energetic presence and relaxed, athletic attire on WWE broadcasts. Swapping tank tops for a tailored suit would be a first.
Similarly, the idea of Michael Cole, known for his clean-cut professionalism, wearing a tank top on national TV is sure to spark laughs.
McAfee even posted the moment to X (formerly Twitter), ensuring fans would keep track of the outcome. The bet has quickly become a talking point among both WWE and NBA fans - a testament to McAfee's growing crossover appeal in sports and entertainment.
This light-hearted wager also comes on the heels of McAfee's recent in-ring performance at WWE Backlash in St. Louis.
During the event, McAfee stood up for Cole after a confrontation with WWE star Gunther, stepping into the ring himself. Although the match ended with McAfee being choked out, he won over fans with his willingness to fight for his friend.
"I tried my best... Stand up for your people," McAfee wrote on Instagram after the match. He also added on X, "Never tapped aht. #WWEBacklash," showing that even in defeat, he maintains his trademark bravado.
McAfee's loyalty to Indiana and his dynamic personality have helped elevate his career beyond football. Whether in the broadcast booth, the wrestling ring, or now the NBA Playoffs, he brings the same fire to every arena.
And while the Pacers' title hopes remain uncertain, fans are already looking forward to the potential payoff of this WWE wardrobe bet - whether it's Cole in a tank top or McAfee finally suiting up.