TNA Wrestling commentator Tom Hannifan has revealed that he called WrestleMania's iconic KofiMania match without knowing the outcome. In an exclusive interview with Metro, the 36-year-old broadcaster shared insights into his nearly 15-year career, including his time in WWE and TNA.
The KofiMania Experience
Hannifan recalled the emotionally charged moment at WrestleMania 35 in 2019 when Kofi Kingston won the WWE Championship. 'I didn't know who was going over in that,' he admitted. 'Are they going to pull the trigger on this? Are they really going to do it? And when they really did it, the place just went absolutely crazy.'
The commentator highlighted the significance of Kofi's victory as he became only the third Black world champion in WWE history. 'The ripple effect of representation is never lost on me,' Hannifan said. 'Because Kofi achieved, people who look like him feel like they can achieve. And I think that transcended wrestling.'
He praised his broadcast partner Byron Saxton's performance, calling his call after the pinfall 'incredible.' Hannifan also noted the emotional moment of Kofi's children celebrating in the ring with The New Day.
Not Knowing the Script
Hannifan explained that commentary teams are not always informed of match outcomes, especially for major moments. 'Depending on where it is in the structure of the show, it can be really beneficial for the play-by-play guy to know,' he said. 'But there's certain ones, like if it's the last segment of a show or a pay-per-view, then you just have to react.'
He admitted to sometimes keeping co-commentator Matthew Rehwoldt in the dark intentionally. 'If I can keep him professionally in the dark, then I know I'll get a great, organic reaction out of him,' Hannifan explained. 'That might sound deceptive, but there's always a good reason behind it.'
Preparation and Career
Despite not always knowing outcomes, Hannifan prepares extensively with notes on every wrestler and storyline. 'Especially if there's more emotional moments, I like to make sure that I have maybe a line or two figured out in advance,' he said.
He credited mentors like Lance Storm and Michael Cole for helping him understand commentary intricacies. Hannifan committed his future to TNA last summer, calling it an 'easy decision.'
Regarding The New Day's Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods leaving WWE after over a decade, Hannifan teased potential TNA appearances. 'You just never say never in pro wrestling,' he said.
Hannifan also recalled commentating on his real-life friend Steve Maclin's world title win at TNA Rebellion 2023. 'That was an extremely emotional night for me, and the most emotionally important moment of my career,' he admitted.
Slammiversary 2026 airs June 28 on the TNA+ app.
