Stuff like this screams smark bait, I really doubt this has happened. By all accounts I've read in the past he's a great guy and best mates with Cena.
I had the same response as you. When I first read about this I thought he was just staying in character, because this seems so weird. Cole actually has worked as a reporter/war correspondent. I just don't think he is that stupid to do this stuff. I could be wrong though.