Wrestling Is Real Wrestling Podcast

As the WWE Universe looks toward WrestleMania 42 in Las Vegas, the "Main Event" matches—headlined by the colossal clash between World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk and Roman Reigns—are already drawing massive attention. However, to maintain momentum through the "Road to WrestleMania" period, WWE has masterfully utilized "buffer" feuds and qualifying matches to bridge the gap between major events. These secondary storylines serve as essential connective tissue, ensuring the championship pictures remain active while the biggest stars prepare for their ultimate showdowns in Vegas.A primary example of this strategy is the current World Title landscape, where CM Punk is facing an immediate threat from Finn Bálor and The Judgment Day. Rather than letting the title picture stagnate until WrestleMania, WWE has scheduled a championship defense for Punk against Bálor at the upcoming Elimination Chamber in Chicago. This feud not only reinforces Punk’s persona as a "fighting champion" but also keeps Roman Reigns looming as the final boss waiting for the WrestleMania spotlight.The women’s division is employing a similar approach, as Royal Rumble winner Liv Morgan weighs her options between champions Stephanie Vaquer and Jade Cargill. During this period of uncertainty, a high-profile rivalry between Becky Lynch and the returning AJ Lee has taken center stage, culminating in a marquee match at Elimination Chamber. By scheduling this "dream match" as a buffer, WWE provides significant engagement for fans while the top-tier title decisions remain in a holding pattern.Furthermore, the Elimination Chamber qualifying matches are being used to weave multiple mid-card feuds together. LA Knight secured his spot in the chamber after a chaotic match involving Penta and Austin Theory, which also integrated interference from Logan Paul and Bronson Reed. Similarly, Rhea Ripley’s victory in her qualifying match ensures she remains a top-tier attraction even without a direct title match this month.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-is-real-wrestling-podcast--1559158/support.Contact KOP for professional podcast production, imaging, and web design services at http://www.kingofpodcasts.comSupport KOP by subscribing to his YouTube channel and search for King Of PodcastsFollow KOP on X and TikTok @kingofpodcasts (F Meta!)Listen to KOP’s other programs, Podcasters Row… and the Wrestling is Real Wrestling Podcast and The Broadcasters Podcast.Buy KOP a Coffee https://buymeacoffee.com/kingofpodcastsDrop KOP a PayPal https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=3TAB983ZQPNVLDrop KOP a Venmo https://account.venmo.com/u/kingofpodcastsDrop KOP a CashApp https://cash.app/$kingofallpodcasts

Battle Riot VIII proved once again that less can be so much more. While WWE’s Royal Rumble 2026 stretched across a bloated three-hour broadcast filled with predictable call-ups, recycled spots, and too many celebrity or nostalgia cameos that barely moved the needle, MLW’s 40-man Battle Riot delivered a tighter, meaner, and far more satisfying spectacle in under two hours.From the opening bell, Battle Riot kept every elimination on camera (with only one minor off-screen moment), let active storylines breathe—Contra Unit’s betrayal, Kushida’s post-title attack, the sudden Davey Boy Smith Jr. swap for Simon Gotch drama—and rewarded smart booking choices. The #1 entry payoff for Killer Kross felt earned and emotional, especially with his mother ringside, giving the finish genuine heart WWE rarely allows in its polished, overproduced format.Royal Rumble leaned heavily on formula: long stretches of filler entrants, forced surprise returns that went nowhere, and a pacing that sagged under its own weight. Battle Riot, by contrast, stayed ruthless and focused—fewer dead spots, more organic faction warfare, real consequences to alliances and betrayals, and a clear narrative thread that built to Kross’s coronation without ever feeling contrived.MLW didn’t just copy the battle royal blueprint; they sharpened it, proving you don’t need a three-hour runtime or a stadium to create a must-see war. Battle Riot VIII was lean, mean, and infinitely more compelling.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-is-real-wrestling-podcast--1559158/support.Contact KOP for professional podcast production, imaging, and web design services at http://www.kingofpodcasts.comSupport KOP by subscribing to his YouTube channel and search for King Of PodcastsFollow KOP on X and TikTok @kingofpodcasts (F Meta!)Listen to KOP’s other programs, Podcasters Row… and the Wrestling is Real Wrestling Podcast and The Broadcasters Podcast.Buy KOP a Coffee https://buymeacoffee.com/kingofpodcastsDrop KOP a PayPal https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=3TAB983ZQPNVLDrop KOP a Venmo https://account.venmo.com/u/kingofpodcastsDrop KOP a CashApp https://cash.app/$kingofallpodcasts

Fresh off his monumental Royal Rumble victory, the "Original Tribal Chief" Roman Reigns returned to the city of Philadelphia—a place where his storied career has seen both its highest peaks and lowest valleys—to deliver his decree. However, what began as an "aura farming" session and a reflection on his dominance was sharply interrupted by the World Heavyweight Champion, CM Punk. In an electric opening segment that felt more like a main event than a broadcast opener, the two icons traded verbal haymakers that blurred the lines between scripted drama and personal history.Reigns, exuding the calm confidence of a man who has "made" the modern era of WWE, initially teased a jump to SmackDown to challenge Drew McIntyre, only to be met with the overwhelming roar of the Philly crowd demanding a showdown with Punk. When the champion emerged, the atmosphere shifted from celebration to a tense stand-off. Punk didn't hold back, calling Reigns a "visitor" on his show and mocking Roman’s part-time schedule while highlighting his own global title defenses. The tension reached a boiling point when the conversation turned to The Shield's origins and Punk’s infamous 2014 exit; Reigns accused Punk of attempting to "brainwash" his cousins and making his climb to the top harder than it needed to be. This wasn't just a promo to sell a match; it was a high-stakes interrogation of legacy, tenure, and respect. By the time the segment concluded, the message was clear: this isn't just a quest for a championship—it is a battle to determine whose philosophy truly defines the "Best in the World." This exceptional exchange has instantly elevated the WrestleMania buildup, promising fans a "Showcase of the Immortals" that will be remembered as a definitive collision of two of the greatest eras in professional wrestling history.This episode is sponsored by FirmTech—performance rings built for comfort, control, and confidence. Head to myfirmtech.com and use code KING for 15% off.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-is-real-wrestling-podcast--1559158/support.Contact KOP for professional podcast production, imaging, and web design services at http://www.kingofpodcasts.comSupport KOP by subscribing to his YouTube channel and search for King Of PodcastsFollow KOP on X and TikTok @kingofpodcasts (F Meta!)Listen to KOP’s other programs, Podcasters Row… and the Wrestling is Real Wrestling Podcast and The Broadcasters Podcast.Buy KOP a Coffee https://buymeacoffee.com/kingofpodcastsDrop KOP a PayPal https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=3TAB983ZQPNVLDrop KOP a Venmo https://account.venmo.com/u/kingofpodcastsDrop KOP a CashApp https://cash.app/$kingofallpodcasts

The 2026 Royal Rumble will likely be remembered as a night of missed opportunities and questionable pacing that was only salvaged by the sheer gravitational pull of the "Tribal Chief."For nearly four hours, the Riyadh crowd sat through a show that felt strangely hollow, burdened by a Women’s Rumble that prioritized a crowded ring over meaningful storytelling. The decision to keep more than ten women in the ring for the vast majority of the match resulted in a cluttered, sluggish affair where high-stakes eliminations felt like an afterthought. While Liv Morgan’s eventual victory provides a tidy conclusion to her three-year odyssey of "almosts," the journey to get there felt like a chore rather than a thrill, leaving the audience exhausted before the midway point of the night.The emotional core of the undercard was supposed to be the retirement of AJ Styles, but even this felt mishandled.Seeing a legend of Styles’ caliber hang up the boots on a January secondary show, rather than under the grandest lights of WrestleMania, felt like a disservice to one of the greatest careers in industry history. Gunther was the expected victor, and while the match was technically sound, the "Career vs. Career" stipulation felt like a hollow plot device to bridge the gap to the main event. It left a bitter taste in the mouths of fans who expected a more prestigious send-off for the "Phenomenal One," contributing to a sense of malaise that hung over the stadium as the Men’s Rumble began.The Men’s Royal Rumble match itself threatened to follow the same predictable trajectory, leaning heavily on the "Cody Rhodes vs. CM Punk" narrative that has been telegraphed for months. The action was standard, and for a while, it seemed WWE was content to play it safe with a "paint-by-numbers" finish that would have left the WrestleMania main event feeling like a repetitive foregone conclusion. The energy in the building was dipping as the realization set in that we were headed for a safe, uninspired path to April.Everything changed the moment Roman Reigns exerted his will. By injecting himself into the finish and ultimately securing the win, Reigns didn't just play the villain; he acted as a much-needed creative reset button. His victory shattered the predictable Cody-centric orbit and reminded the audience that the "Head of the Table" is the only truly indispensable force in the company. In one move, he transformed a lackluster, frustrating event into a compelling mystery. Roman Reigns didn't just win a match tonight; he rescued a flat WrestleMania season from its own predictability, proving once again that the Bloodline is the only thing keeping the lights on.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-is-real-wrestling-podcast--1559158/support.Contact KOP for professional podcast production, imaging, and web design services at http://www.kingofpodcasts.comSupport KOP by subscribing to his YouTube channel and search for King Of PodcastsFollow KOP on X and TikTok @kingofpodcasts (F Meta!)Listen to KOP’s other programs, Podcasters Row… and the Wrestling is Real Wrestling Podcast and The Broadcasters Podcast.Buy KOP a Coffee https://buymeacoffee.com/kingofpodcastsDrop KOP a PayPal https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=3TAB983ZQPNVLDrop KOP a Venmo https://account.venmo.com/u/kingofpodcastsDrop KOP a CashApp https://cash.app/$kingofallpodcasts

High Stakes in the Desert as TKO’s Financial Oasis vs. the Creative WastelandThe road to WrestleMania officially ignites this weekend as WWE descends upon the sands of Saudi Arabia for a Royal Rumble.The primary narrative engine heading into the Kingdom is the suffocating dominance of Paul Heyman’s newly minted alliance, featuring Bron Breakker, Austin Theory, and Logan Paul. Their presence in the 30-man Rumble match transforms the traditional "every man for himself" chaos into a strategic blockade, as this "super-stable" looks to gatekeep the main event of WrestleMania. Meanwhile, the fallout from Monday Night Raw has left the World Heavyweight Championship picture in a state of flux, with CM Punk clinging to his title following a messy disqualification against AJ Styles. This lack of resolution ensures that the Rumble winner won't just be choosing an opponent, but picking a side in an escalating war for the soul of the Raw brand.From a corporate perspective, TKO Group Holdings is currently navigating a "Desert-to-Desert" strategy that is effectively an oasis of cash. By leveraging massive site fees from the Saudi government to kick off the season and parlaying that momentum into what is expected to be a record-shattering gate at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, the company is seeing unprecedented financial irrigation.The synergy between these two desert landscapes ensures that sponsorships and hospitality revenue will flow at an all-time high, proving that the business of professional wrestling has never been more fertile. This geographical tie-in between the dunes of the Middle East and the Mojave Desert creates a seamless, high-luxury aesthetic that appeals directly to global investors and high-rolling fans alike.However, while the balance sheets are lush, the actual storytelling heading into this weekend feels increasingly like a creative wasteland. There is a growing sentiment among the audience that the narrative soil has gone dry, characterized by a reliance on repetitive DQ finishes and "poison ear" tropes, such as the interminable tension within The New Day. The sudden formation of Heyman’s group, while star-studded, feels to some like a desperate attempt to manufacture a mirage of importance where long-term character development has failed to take root. As the roster treks from the Saudi sands to the Vegas Strip, the challenge for the creative team is to find a source of narrative substance; otherwise, the journey to WrestleMania may be a lucrative trek through a barren landscape.Would you like me to draft a potential "miracle" booking scenario that could fix this creative drought at the Royal Rumble?Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-is-real-wrestling-podcast--1559158/support.Contact KOP for professional podcast production, imaging, and web design services at http://www.kingofpodcasts.comSupport KOP by subscribing to his YouTube channel and search for King Of PodcastsFollow KOP on X and TikTok @kingofpodcasts (F Meta!)Listen to KOP’s other programs, Podcasters Row… and the Wrestling is Real Wrestling Podcast and The Broadcasters Podcast.Buy KOP a Coffee https://buymeacoffee.com/kingofpodcastsDrop KOP a PayPal https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=3TAB983ZQPNVLDrop KOP a Venmo https://account.venmo.com/u/kingofpodcastsDrop KOP a CashApp https://cash.app/$kingofallpodcasts

In a high-stakes main event at the Bell Centre in Montreal, Sami Zayn secured his path to championship glory by defeating Randy Orton, Damian Priest, and Trick Williams in a No. 1 Contender’s Fatal 4-Way Match. The hometown hero survived a chaotic bout—marked by a referee bump and interference from Trick Williams—to seal the win with a Helluva Kick on Priest. This victory officially sets the stage for the Royal Rumble on January 31 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where Zayn will challenge Drew McIntyre for the Undisputed WWE Championship. Elsewhere on the card, AJ Styles overcame Shinsuke Nakamura, and the tandem of IYO SKY and Rhea Ripley successfully defended their WWE Women’s Tag Team Titles against the Judgment Day’s Roxanne Perez and Liv Morgan.Critical Analysis: The "Rumble" Without a BuildWhile the in-ring action at Saturday Night’s Main Event delivered, the broader road to the Royal Rumble feels remarkably hollow. With only one week remaining until one of WWE’s "Big Five" events, the creative direction has been surprisingly stagnant:Lack of Narrative Momentum: WWE has leaned heavily on the "the match sells itself" mantra, neglecting the traditional episodic build. Beyond a few vignettes—like Roman Reigns declaring his entry on SmackDown—the focus has been on secondary feuds rather than the high-stakes mystery and tension that typically define Rumble season.The "Saudi Effect": Transitioning the Royal Rumble to Riyadh for the first time has seemingly shifted the priority toward spectacle over storytelling. By finalizing the WWE Championship match just seven days before the bell, WWE has left precious little time to develop the personal heat required for a world title bout of this magnitude.Sami Zayn vs. Drew McIntyre: The relevance of this match hinges entirely on the "Year of Sami Zayn" narrative. Having Zayn earn his shot in Montreal provides a sentimental peak, but placing him against a dominant heel like McIntyre in Saudi Arabia is a bold, if risky, choice. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-is-real-wrestling-podcast--1559158/support.Contact KOP for professional podcast production, imaging, and web design services at http://www.kingofpodcasts.comSupport KOP by subscribing to his YouTube channel and search for King Of PodcastsFollow KOP on X and TikTok @kingofpodcasts (F Meta!)Listen to KOP’s other programs, Podcasters Row… and the Wrestling is Real Wrestling Podcast and The Broadcasters Podcast.Buy KOP a Coffee https://buymeacoffee.com/kingofpodcastsDrop KOP a PayPal https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=3TAB983ZQPNVLDrop KOP a Venmo https://account.venmo.com/u/kingofpodcastsDrop KOP a CashApp https://cash.app/$kingofallpodcasts

The 2026 Royal Rumble finds WWE at a precarious crossroads, prioritizing international expansion over logical narrative progression as it heads to the King Abdullah Financial District in Riyadh. While the historic nature of the first "Big Five" event in Saudi Arabia is undeniable, the creative direction remains frustratingly fragmented. The main event scene is currently defined by a "Three Stages of Hell" fallout that has stripped Cody Rhodes of his Undisputed WWE Championship and forced him into the 30-man Rumble as the very first entrant. This "earn it all over again" trope feels particularly repetitive for a top star, especially while the title itself is being defended against a tournament winner from a separate Saturday Night's Main Event card just one week prior. Furthermore, the Career Threatening match between AJ Styles and Gunther relies on a meta-narrative about Styles' real-world retirement plans rather than a grounded wrestling feud. With the "Road to WrestleMania 42" in Las Vegas looming, the reliance on high-stakes stipulations like retirement and convoluted tournaments risks exhausting the audience before they even reach the Nevada desert. The storytelling currently feels less like a cohesive journey and more like a series of disconnected, high-budget stunts designed to satisfy a global touring schedule rather than the loyal fanbase.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-is-real-wrestling-podcast--1559158/support.Contact KOP for professional podcast production, imaging, and web design services at http://www.kingofpodcasts.comSupport KOP by subscribing to his YouTube channel and search for King Of PodcastsFollow KOP on X and TikTok @kingofpodcasts (F Meta!)Listen to KOP’s other programs, Podcasters Row… and the Wrestling is Real Wrestling Podcast and The Broadcasters Podcast.Buy KOP a Coffee https://buymeacoffee.com/kingofpodcastsDrop KOP a PayPal https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=3TAB983ZQPNVLDrop KOP a Venmo https://account.venmo.com/u/kingofpodcastsDrop KOP a CashApp https://cash.app/$kingofallpodcasts

Three years ago, Hard To Kill 2023 felt like a gritty declaration of independence, headlined by Josh Alexander’s pure-wrestling war against Bully Ray. Tonight at Genesis 2026, the transformation is complete: TNA is no longer a rival; it’s a residency. What was once "Hard To Kill" has become easy to manipulate, as the brand’s identity has been hollowed out to serve as a glorified "Canadian Territory" for the WWE machine. From Mustafa Ali’s curated dominance to the shifting roster, the "comeback" didn't save TNA—it just turned it into a polished shell for developmental expansion.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-is-real-wrestling-podcast--1559158/support.Contact KOP for professional podcast production, imaging, and web design services at http://www.kingofpodcasts.comSupport KOP by subscribing to his YouTube channel and search for King Of PodcastsFollow KOP on X and TikTok @kingofpodcasts (F Meta!)Listen to KOP’s other programs, Podcasters Row… and the Wrestling is Real Wrestling Podcast and The Broadcasters Podcast.Buy KOP a Coffee https://buymeacoffee.com/kingofpodcastsDrop KOP a PayPal https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=3TAB983ZQPNVLDrop KOP a Venmo https://account.venmo.com/u/kingofpodcastsDrop KOP a CashApp https://cash.app/$kingofallpodcasts

Netflix has a long-standing history of shifting the goalposts to ensure its biggest investments look like undisputed champions. By moving away from reporting raw subscriber counts and transparent Nielsen-style data, the streamer has perfected the art of the "Blended View"—a custom metric that combines live broadcasts, on-demand replays, and varied runtimes into one inflated headline number.In the case of WWE, Netflix’s reported 340 million "views" for Monday Night Raw serves as the perfect smokescreen. It’s a narrative designed to convince Wall Street that a niche, live product is competing with binge-heavy blockbusters like Squid Game, despite the fact that WWE actually accounts for less than 0.3% of the platform's total annual engagement. By defining a "view" as a simple mathematical average (Total Hours ÷ Runtime) rather than unique human beings, Netflix has effectively "rigged" the numbers to justify its $5 billion price tag and mask the reality that Raw is a steady workhorse, not the explosive global phenomenon the press releases suggest. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-is-real-wrestling-podcast--1559158/support.Contact KOP for professional podcast production, imaging, and web design services at http://www.kingofpodcasts.comSupport KOP by subscribing to his YouTube channel and search for King Of PodcastsFollow KOP on X and TikTok @kingofpodcasts (F Meta!)Listen to KOP’s other programs, Podcasters Row… and the Wrestling is Real Wrestling Podcast and The Broadcasters Podcast.Buy KOP a Coffee https://buymeacoffee.com/kingofpodcastsDrop KOP a PayPal https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=3TAB983ZQPNVLDrop KOP a Venmo https://account.venmo.com/u/kingofpodcastsDrop KOP a CashApp https://cash.app/$kingofallpodcasts

The January 5, 2026, edition of Monday Night RAW from Brooklyn was a bizarre, disjointed attempt at a cross-promotional spectacle that ultimately left fans feeling like they were trapped in a creative void. Despite the high-stakes billing of the first RAW of the year and the one-year anniversary of the move to Netflix, the "Stranger Things" integration felt like a hollow gimmick that actively hindered the show’s momentum. Rather than providing meaningful storytelling, the "Upside Down" was represented more by the show's backwards logic and flat energy; while the production team leaned into the aesthetic with thematic filters and graphics, the creative execution failed to establish a genuine connection to the source material.This failure extended to the live atmosphere, where the use of low-intensity "Stranger Things" music between segments reportedly subdued the Brooklyn crowd’s excitement instead of building tension. This frustration was compounded by poorly managed teases from creative leadership, specifically regarding a potential Chris Jericho return that never materialized. The in-ring product suffered as well, with match booking—particularly the Women’s Intercontinental Championship bout—feeling overly choreographed and lacking the necessary "seasoning," resulting in a finish that did little to elevate the competitors.Even the night's biggest draw, a World Heavyweight Championship defense by CM Punk against Bron Breakker, was marred by sloppy moments and a chaotic, interference-heavy structure. This over-reliance on bells and whistles felt like a missed opportunity for a clean, high-stakes battle to anchor the broadcast. Ultimately, the crossover was viewed as a waste of time and effort that prioritized aesthetic flair over the foundational booking and character work needed to kick off the new year effectively.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-is-real-wrestling-podcast--1559158/support.Contact KOP for professional podcast production, imaging, and web design services at http://www.kingofpodcasts.comSupport KOP by subscribing to his YouTube channel and search for King Of PodcastsFollow KOP on X and TikTok @kingofpodcasts (F Meta!)Listen to KOP’s other programs, Podcasters Row… and the Wrestling is Real Wrestling Podcast and The Broadcasters Podcast.Buy KOP a Coffee https://buymeacoffee.com/kingofpodcastsDrop KOP a PayPal https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=3TAB983ZQPNVLDrop KOP a Venmo https://account.venmo.com/u/kingofpodcastsDrop KOP a CashApp https://cash.app/$kingofallpodcasts

WWE is feverishly undergoing a violent tectonic shift as a new generation of powerhouses prepares to bulldoze a main roster currently plagued by injuries and aging veterans. While Oba Femi is being hailed by officials as a "special case" on par with Bron Breakker—who is already being groomed as the next Roman Reigns—longtime staples like CM Punk are facing harsh public critiques. Wrestling icon Kevin Nash recently went as far as to suggest that Punk is "done," citing slow ring work and a lack of world-champion physique. This generational gap is further widened by a depleted roster: Dominik Mysterio and Sheamus are both sidelined with serious shoulder injuries, and aging stars like Chris Jericho are being brought back for nostalgia-heavy runs while legal shadows from the Vince McMahon era continue to loom over the boardroom. As the "unrestricted free agent" era of talent like Femi and Breakker begins, the "old and broken down" guard is finding it harder than ever to hold the mountain they once climbed.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-is-real-wrestling-podcast--1559158/support.Contact KOP for professional podcast production, imaging, and web design services at http://www.kingofpodcasts.comSupport KOP by subscribing to his YouTube channel and search for King Of PodcastsFollow KOP on X and TikTok @kingofpodcasts (F Meta!)Listen to KOP’s other programs, Podcasters Row… and the Wrestling is Real Wrestling Podcast and The Broadcasters Podcast.Buy KOP a Coffee https://buymeacoffee.com/kingofpodcastsDrop KOP a PayPal https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=3TAB983ZQPNVLDrop KOP a Venmo https://account.venmo.com/u/kingofpodcastsDrop KOP a CashApp https://cash.app/$kingofallpodcasts

In a chaotic and calculated main event at Worlds End, Maxwell Jacob Friedman officially ended the reign of Samoa Joe to become the new AEW World Champion, signaling a ruthless return to his roots as the industry's most despised villain. By outlasting Joe, Swerve Strickland, and Hangman Adam Page in a grueling 4-Way Match, MJF didn't just win back the "Triple B"—he effectively shed the "generational talent" hero persona to embrace the cold, manipulative tactics that first made him a star. Utilizing a timely low blow on Page and a devastating Heatseeker on Joe, Friedman proved that he is done seeking the fans' approval. As AEW heads into 2026, the landscape is once again under the thumb of a champion who is better than you, and he's more than happy to remind you of it.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-is-real-wrestling-podcast--1559158/support.Contact KOP for professional podcast production, imaging, and web design services at http://www.kingofpodcasts.comSupport KOP by subscribing to his YouTube channel and search for King Of PodcastsFollow KOP on X and TikTok @kingofpodcasts (F Meta!)Listen to KOP’s other programs, Podcasters Row… and the Wrestling is Real Wrestling Podcast and The Broadcasters Podcast.Buy KOP a Coffee https://buymeacoffee.com/kingofpodcastsDrop KOP a PayPal https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=3TAB983ZQPNVLDrop KOP a Venmo https://account.venmo.com/u/kingofpodcastsDrop KOP a CashApp https://cash.app/$kingofallpodcasts

While Netflix is celebrating a massive victory this week with record-breaking viewership for the Jake Paul vs. Anthony Joshua clash—pulling in an estimated 33 million global viewers—the same cannot be said for its newest billion-dollar partner, WWE. As the calendar turns to 2026, the wrestling giant finds itself in a state of "creative bankruptcy," entering the new year with virtually zero narrative momentum despite the prestige of the Netflix platform. Reports suggest a desperate, last-minute scramble to inject life into the product by raiding the NXT developmental system.High-profile stars like Trick Williams, Sol Ruca, and Je'von Evans, along with the viral sensation and recent signee Joe Hendry, are expected to be fast-tracked to the main roster to fill the void. This "panic promotion" aims to rescue a product that many critics argue has been stuck in a creative purgatory since the transition from the "Rainbow Era."​Meanwhile, the competitive landscape has shifted into a holding pattern. AEW appears content to play it safe, maintaining its solid grip on the number two spot in North America. With TNA and other mid-tier promotions currently unable to mount a serious challenge, Tony Khan’s promotion enters 2026 without the pressure of an immediate threat to its position. This leaves WWE in a precarious spot: Netflix will likely have to work double-time to market a product whose "new car smell" has evaporated, leaving behind a roster in desperate need of a spark while its primary rival remains comfortable in its steady, albeit conservative, growth.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-is-real-wrestling-podcast--1559158/support.Contact KOP for professional podcast production, imaging, and web design services at http://www.kingofpodcasts.comSupport KOP by subscribing to his YouTube channel and search for King Of PodcastsFollow KOP on X and TikTok @kingofpodcasts (F Meta!)Listen to KOP’s other programs, Podcasters Row… and the Wrestling is Real Wrestling Podcast and The Broadcasters Podcast.Buy KOP a Coffee https://buymeacoffee.com/kingofpodcastsDrop KOP a PayPal https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=3TAB983ZQPNVLDrop KOP a Venmo https://account.venmo.com/u/kingofpodcastsDrop KOP a CashApp https://cash.app/$kingofallpodcasts

WWE creative, under the direction of Paul "Triple H" Levesque, was reportedly "blindsided" and caught off guard by the intense, negative fan reaction to John Cena losing his retirement match to Gunther. While Triple H has publicly attempted to dismiss the boos as expected "heat," internal sources suggest the level of hostility exceeded WWE's projections, revealing a failure to gauge audience sentiment. This creative misstep and subsequent shock reinforce reports that, in the wake of Cena's retirement, WWE Raw is now suffering from "controversial reveals and directionless storylines," suggesting a deeper issue with the creative structure Levesque leads.Focus on Triple H and Creative Direction:Paul “Triple H” Levesque, as the head of WWE creative, is now reportedly at the center of the controversy following John Cena's retirement match loss, a decision that has been criticized for leaving the company's direction "rudderless." Internal WWE sources reveal that despite the decision being driven by "the guy in charge," the overwhelmingly negative fan reaction—far exceeding what was projected—left officials, including Levesque, completely "blindsided." While Levesque has publicly attempted to downplay the boos as a calculated defense mechanism ("Oh, I thought it would be louder"), the reality behind the scenes indicates a significant disconnect between creative leadership and the fanbase. This failure to anticipate the backlash against the Cena loss now appears linked to wider issues, with post-Cena episodes of WWE Raw being plagued by "controversial reveals and directionless storylines," highlighting a potential lack of cohesive and resonant long-term booking under Levesque's creative rule.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-is-real-wrestling-podcast--1559158/support.Contact KOP for professional podcast production, imaging, and web design services at http://www.kingofpodcasts.comSupport KOP by subscribing to his YouTube channel and search for King Of PodcastsFollow KOP on X and TikTok @kingofpodcasts (F Meta!)Listen to KOP’s other programs, Podcasters Row… and the Wrestling is Real Wrestling Podcast and The Broadcasters Podcast.Buy KOP a Coffee https://buymeacoffee.com/kingofpodcastsDrop KOP a PayPal https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=3TAB983ZQPNVLDrop KOP a Venmo https://account.venmo.com/u/kingofpodcastsDrop KOP a CashApp https://cash.app/$kingofallpodcasts

John Cena takes traditional loss and the juvenile delusional meltdownThe curtain officially fell on a legendary career as John Cena suffered a definitive, clean submission loss to "The Ring General" Gunther in the main event of Saturday Night's Main Event. In a brutal and technical showcase meant to pass the torch to the next generation, Cena valiantly fought but ultimately submitted to Gunther's unforgiving assault, making this the first time the wrestling icon has officially retired with a loss. While long-time fans lauded the respectful and powerful elevation of Gunther, the collective gasp from the younger, vocal online fanbase quickly devolved into a full-blown, meltdown-fueled juvenile revolt, as the reality of their hero taking a traditional, non-gimmicked loss in his final match became too much for the delusional fandom to bear. The internet is now a sea of tears, hot takes, and angry emojis, proving once again that sometimes, you just can't see the bigger picture.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-is-real-wrestling-podcast--1559158/support.Contact KOP for professional podcast production, imaging, and web design services at http://www.kingofpodcasts.comSupport KOP by subscribing to his YouTube channel and search for King Of PodcastsFollow KOP on X and TikTok @kingofpodcasts (F Meta!)Listen to KOP’s other programs, Podcasters Row… and the Wrestling is Real Wrestling Podcast and The Broadcasters Podcast.Buy KOP a Coffee https://buymeacoffee.com/kingofpodcastsDrop KOP a PayPal https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=3TAB983ZQPNVLDrop KOP a Venmo https://account.venmo.com/u/kingofpodcastsDrop KOP a CashApp https://cash.app/$kingofallpodcasts

The inaugural year of TKO Group Holdings, the entity merging WWE and UFC, saw WWE not just survive, but flourish under the streaming behemoth Netflix's gaze.Despite the organization being majority-owned by Endeavor (and indirectly controlled by the private equity giant Silver Lake), WWE President Nick Khan has firmly maintained that the creative success of the new era is purely the product of Chief Content Officer Paul "Triple H" Levesque. Khan's quote, "It's Paul’s vision being executed," underscores a key tension: a publicly traded, financially driven operation is allowing the creative side an unprecedented level of autonomy, seemingly insulating the on-screen product from the intense value-maximization focus of its TKO/private equity owners. This blend of financial rigor and creative freedom has yielded some of the highest-regarded storylines and in-ring performances of the modern era, suggesting a successful operational model where fiscal discipline coexists with, rather than controls, the artistic direction.Would you like me to elaborate on specific creative or business highlights from the WWE's first year under TKO/Netflix influence?Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-is-real-wrestling-podcast--1559158/support.Contact KOP for professional podcast production, imaging, and web design services at http://www.kingofpodcasts.comSupport KOP by subscribing to his YouTube channel and search for King Of PodcastsFollow KOP on X and TikTok @kingofpodcasts (F Meta!)Listen to KOP’s other programs, Podcasters Row… and the Wrestling is Real Wrestling Podcast and The Broadcasters Podcast.Buy KOP a Coffee https://buymeacoffee.com/kingofpodcastsDrop KOP a PayPal https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=3TAB983ZQPNVLDrop KOP a Venmo https://account.venmo.com/u/kingofpodcastsDrop KOP a CashApp https://cash.app/$kingofallpodcasts

​TNA Wrestling has secured a significant multi-year media rights agreement that will see its flagship weekly show, Thursday Night iMPACT!, move to AMC and AMC+ starting January 15, 2026. This monumental move represents a major strategic shift for TNA, aiming to capitalize on AMC Networks' reputation for catering to passionate, engaged fan bases and substantially increasing TNA's household reach. The two-hour broadcast will air live every Thursday from 9-11 p.m. ET, kicking off with a live event in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. This new television home marks the latest chapter in TNA’s nomadic history, which began when Total Nonstop Action Wrestling was founded in 2002. Since its inception, TNA has relied on various networks for distribution. Its first national television exposure for TNA Impact! came in 2004 on Fox Sports Net (FSN), a deal that lasted about a year. After a brief period where the show was distributed online, TNA found its most stable and successful home on Spike TV (now Paramount Network), where it aired from 2005 until 2014, including its period of peak viewership. Following the departure from Spike, the program bounced across several networks, including Destination America (2015), Pop (2016-2019), and the Pursuit Channel (briefly in 2019) before settling at AXS TV (a network owned by parent company Anthem Sports & Entertainment) until this newly announced move to AMC.​The move to AMC comes at a time when TNA is experiencing a surge in momentum, driven largely by its groundbreaking, multi-year partnership with WWE and its developmental brand, NXT, announced in 2025. This historic collaboration has seen TNA and NXT talent routinely cross between both promotions' programming and premium live events, with TNA stars like Nic Nemeth, Matt Cardona, Léi Yǐng Lee, and Leon Slater recently appearing on WWE/NXT shows, and vice versa. The partnership is framed by both companies as a way to create unprecedented crossover opportunities, provide additional exposure, and bolster in-ring development for both rosters. From a business and creative perspective, the alliance has been highly successful, driving up TNA's social media engagement, live event attendance, and brand visibility by leveraging WWE's massive platforms. The continued involvement of top TNA champions like Knockouts World Champion Léi Yǐng Lee and X Division Champion Leon Slater in NXT storylines highlights the deepening trust and collaborative nature between the two organizations.​Looking ahead, the partnership is expected to become even more aggressive and creatively intertwined as TNA gains significantly larger mainstream exposure on AMC. With TNA now on a higher-profile cable network, the stakes of the crossover storylines increase exponentially for both parties. The key analysis revolves around whether the current arrangement—which primarily involves NXT talent and titles—will escalate to include direct involvement with WWE's main roster titles (Raw and SmackDown championships). While the partnership has so far successfully avoided blurring the lines of WWE's primary brands, the success of TNA talent like Jordynne Grace appearing at the Women's Royal Rumble in the past suggests that high-profile, non-title appearances on WWE main roster programming are already on the table.However, it is less likely that WWE will immediately allow main roster championships (like the World Heavyweight Championship or Women's World Championship) to be directly weighed in or defended on Thursday Night iMPACT! The current model—focusing on NXT talent exchange and NXT title challenges—serves WWE by giving their developmental stars valuable exposure while lending credibility to TNA. Future involvement of TNA wrestlers is expected to continue to focus heavily on their association with NXT titles and talent, but the new AMC visibility could pressure the partnership to feature more compelling, main roster-adjacent storylines, potentially leading to TNA wrestlers appearing in non-title matches or high-stakes segments on Raw or SmackDown to promote the new AMC show.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-is-real-wrestling-podcast--1559158/support.Contact KOP for professional podcast production, imaging, and web design services at http://www.kingofpodcasts.comSupport KOP by subscribing to his YouTube channel and search for King Of PodcastsFollow KOP on X and TikTok @kingofpodcasts (F Meta!)Listen to KOP’s other programs, Podcasters Row… and the Wrestling is Real Wrestling Podcast and The Broadcasters Podcast.Buy KOP a Coffee https://buymeacoffee.com/kingofpodcastsDrop KOP a PayPal https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=3TAB983ZQPNVLDrop KOP a Venmo https://account.venmo.com/u/kingofpodcastsDrop KOP a CashApp https://cash.app/$kingofallpodcasts

WWEs Survivor Series, featuring the hallmark WarGames matches left many fans questioning the creative decisions behind the outcomes and match presentation. Women's WarGames Match with Charlotte Flair, which also included IYO SKY, Alexa Bliss, AJ Lee, and Rhea Ripley, secured a victory over the opposing team, led by Becky Lynch and featuring the WWE Women's Tag Team Champions Asuka and Kairi Sane, along with Nia Jax and Lash Legend, by submission. Despite the monumental effort, the match was criticized for being nearly an hour long with little significant development. The booking seemed overly focused on attempting to push IYO SKY to broader fandom, while the introduction of a masked Rhea Ripley was noted as making her nearly unrecognizable. WWE Women’s World Championship saw “La Primera” Stephanie Vaquer (c) retain her title against Nikki Bella. The match was described as largely uneventful, culminating with Vaquer executing the Demon's Kiss on Bella both in the ring and on the announce table.Intercontinental Title Shocker and Men's WarGames Finale:“Dirty” Dominik Mysterio defeated the champion John Cena (c) to capture the WWE Intercontinental Championship. The chaotic finish involved interference from multiple members of Judgment Day, including Raquel Rodriguez and Roxanne Perez. The highly anticipated return of Liv Morgan received a massive pop, but she was utilized poorly by first teasing a turn on Mysterio only to ultimately betray Cena, helping Mysterio secure the win. Men's WarGames Match had The Vision (comprised of Bron Breakker and “Big” Bronson Reed), alongside Logan Paul, Drew McIntyre, and Brock Lesnar, defeat the formidable team of World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk, Undisputed WWE Champion “The American Nightmare” Cody Rhodes, The Usos (Jimmy and Jey Uso), and Roman Reigns. The match's conclusion was widely panned, ending with Bron Breakker making a theatrical adjustment of his straps, followed by an "accelerated spear" to secure the victory.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-is-real-wrestling-podcast--1559158/support.Contact KOP for professional podcast production, imaging, and web design services at http://www.kingofpodcasts.comSupport KOP by subscribing to his YouTube channel and search for King Of PodcastsFollow KOP on X and TikTok @kingofpodcasts (F Meta!)Listen to KOP’s other programs, Podcasters Row… and the Wrestling is Real Wrestling Podcast and The Broadcasters Podcast.Buy KOP a Coffee https://buymeacoffee.com/kingofpodcastsDrop KOP a PayPal https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=3TAB983ZQPNVLDrop KOP a Venmo https://account.venmo.com/u/kingofpodcastsDrop KOP a CashApp https://cash.app/$kingofallpodcasts

Triple H is trying to sell us a bill of goods. In recent interviews, he’s boasting about a "deep field" and a "wide open" future, conveniently glazing over the fact that WWE’s main event scene is essentially a retirement community. He points to the "thickness" of the roster underneath, citing names like Bron Breakker and Bronson Reed, yet the marquee remains choked by part-timers and veterans pushing 40 or 50—Lesnar, Punk, Reigns, and Cody. If the future is so bright, why is the present so reliant on the past?The ugly truth is that WWE is currently suffering from the exact same "creative staleness" that fans used to skewer Vince McMahon for. The alarming rise in "no-decision" finishes isn't storytelling; it's procrastination. It is the hallmark of a booker afraid to make a choice.But the most damning indictment comes from an unlikely source: Vince Russo. While wrestling purists hate to admit it, Russo nailed the current problem with both Triple H and Tony Khan. They are booking wrestling shows for themselves and the internet bubble, offering "90% wrestling" and turning the product into a niche echo chamber. They’ve forgotten the casual millions who don't care about "work rate" or "star ratings" but crave the variety, soap opera, and larger-than-life chaos of the Attitude Era.Paul Heyman can hype WarGames as the "greatest of all time," but if it’s just another collection of "good matches" with no real narrative stakes or variety, it’s meaningless. Triple H has turned WWE into a polished, high-budget indie show. He’s satisfying the hardcores, but by ignoring the need for "a little bit of everything," he is capping the company's cultural relevance. The "depth" is there, Hunter, but your courage to use it—and entertain the masses rather than just the marks—is missing.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-is-real-wrestling-podcast--1559158/support.Contact KOP for professional podcast production, imaging, and web design services at http://www.kingofpodcasts.comSupport KOP by subscribing to his YouTube channel and search for King Of PodcastsFollow KOP on X and TikTok @kingofpodcasts (F Meta!)Listen to KOP’s other programs, Podcasters Row… and the Wrestling is Real Wrestling Podcast and The Broadcasters Podcast.Buy KOP a Coffee https://buymeacoffee.com/kingofpodcastsDrop KOP a PayPal https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=3TAB983ZQPNVLDrop KOP a Venmo https://account.venmo.com/u/kingofpodcastsDrop KOP a CashApp https://cash.app/$kingofallpodcasts

AEW's Full Gear 2025 was a spectacle that swung wildly between brilliance and overkill, proving once again that the company thrives on high-stakes drama—but sometimes piles on the extremes like it's allergic to subtlety. Four title changes lit up the ledger (FTR's tag team triumph, Ricochet's gauntlet glory for the new National belt, Mark Briscoe's gritty TNT grab, and Samoa Joe's cage-clinching World Championship heist), but let's pump the brakes: that's not evolution; it's title turnover roulette. In one night? It risks diluting the prestige of every strap, turning reigns into revolving doors. AEW's booking is ambitious, sure, but this many flips feels less like smart storytelling and more like a frantic bid to keep viewers hooked—consequences be damned. One or two shifts would've sufficed to build heat; four just screams "change for change's sake."The action? Electric in spots, exhausting in others. That Blood & Guts Lite aesthetic—O'Reilly's No Holds Barred brawl with Moxley, Briscoe's No DQ demolition derby, and the main-event steel cage slaughter between Page and Joe—delivered visceral thrills, no doubt. Page's crimson cascade and Joe's unyielding choke? The kind of raw intensity that etches memories. But excess crept in hard: thumbtacks, kendo sticks, and enough hardware to stock a Home Depot aisle. It's brutal artistry... until it borders on gratuitous, leaving fans numb to the "soul" amid the splatter. Wrestling's grit is gold, but when every midcard grudge devolves into a blood ritual, it cheapens the violence. Dial it back, AEW—let the psychology breathe without the constant red tide.Still, seeds for 2026? Planted deep, if a bit predictably. Timeless Love Bombs (Storm & Shirakawa) earning stipulation rights in their tag tournament opener teases delicious mayhem, FTR's resurgence hints at a redemption saga worth rooting for, and Don Callis slinking away with wounds sets up inevitable revenge. The Young Bucks' $1M trios payday? Hilarious cash-grab fodder—rumors of them eyeing a TNA buyout already swirling like bad cologne. High stakes? Undeniable. But with so much flipping and flopping, will any of it stick?MVP Watch: Samoa Joe emerges as the undisputed king, his methodical menace a welcome anchor in the storm. Ricochet, though? He owned that 22-minute Casino Gauntlet with flips that defied physics—midcard magic we needed more of, less gore. Props to Darby Allin and Hangman Page for selling the heartbreak (and headshots) like pros, but damn, give these cowboys a break from the perpetual punishment.Full Gear 2025? A statement, yeah—AEW's all-in on global collabs (CMLL's Sky Team nod was a highlight), tournament twists, and real risks. But if the future's this formulaic in its frenzy—endless extremes and belt swaps—I'm wary.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-is-real-wrestling-podcast--1559158/support.Contact KOP for professional podcast production, imaging, and web design services at http://www.kingofpodcasts.comSupport KOP by subscribing to his YouTube channel and search for King Of PodcastsFollow KOP on X and TikTok @kingofpodcasts (F Meta!)Listen to KOP’s other programs, Podcasters Row… and the Wrestling is Real Wrestling Podcast and The Broadcasters Podcast.Buy KOP a Coffee https://buymeacoffee.com/kingofpodcastsDrop KOP a PayPal https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=3TAB983ZQPNVLDrop KOP a Venmo https://account.venmo.com/u/kingofpodcastsDrop KOP a CashApp https://cash.app/$kingofallpodcasts