The Blind Auditions are over, and 48 talented singers have officially joined The Voice Season 25 — split across Team Reba, Team Bublé, Team Niall, and Team Snoop. Monday night kicked off the Battle Rounds, where contestants go head-to-head in duets, and their coaches must choose who advances to the Knockouts.
In a new twist for this season, the artists got to pick their own battle partners — a first in The Voice history! Once the matchups were set, the coaches selected the songs.
One of the standout battles of the night came from Team Bublé’s Austin Gilbert and Rob Cole.
Austin originally impressed with a soulful take on Luke Combs’ “The Kind of Love We Make,” while Rob wowed with Chris Stapleton’s “Joy of My Life.”
For their battle, Coach Michael Bublé — with help from guest advisor Kelsea Ballerini — gave them a country favorite: Blake Shelton’s “Honeybee.”
Michael said he picked the song as a tribute to his longtime friend and former Voice coach, Blake Shelton, while Kelsea praised the choice, saying it perfectly showcased both singers’ personalities and tones.
When Austin and Rob took the stage, they brought pure country charm — and all four coaches were on their feet by the end.
“I felt the spirit of Blake Shelton when y’all were singing that,” Snoop Dogg said, grinning.
But only one could move on. After some tough thinking, Michael Bublé chose Rob Cole to advance to the Knockouts.
“Austin versus Rob — they’re both incredible,” Michael said. “But Rob’s my country superstar. He’s versatile, charismatic, and ready for the big stage.”
Just as Austin was saying his goodbyes, Reba McEntire hit her Steal button, saving him at the last moment.
Overcome with emotion, Reba told him,
“Austin, your enthusiasm, your big heart, your gorgeous voice… you’re a cowboy through and through. I’m thrilled to have you on Team Reba!”
And just like that, Austin Gilbert found a new home — and a second chance — on Team Reba.
