WRESTLING SOUP

This episode covers the swirling rumors about the possible reveal of Ricky Starks, and the ever-changing landscape of wrestling stables. The guys debate the merits of Austin Theory, Ricky Starks, and other rising stars, while reflecting on the booking decisions of WWE and the influence of Netflix on the product.You'll also hear their takes on John Cena's retirement match, the future of top talents like Gunther, and the challenges facing both new and veteran wrestlers. Plus, enjoy candid discussions about wrestling's international expansion, the business side of the industry, and plenty of hilarious side tangents about music videos, celebrity appearances, and more.0:00 - WWE Rumors & Ricky Starks Speculation15:00 - Austin Theory, Ethan Page, and the State of WWE Booking30:00 - John Cena's Retirement & Future of the Roster45:00 - International Expansion & Netflix's Role1:00:00 - Wrestling in Pop Culture & Final ThoughtsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

In this episode of Wrestling Soup, Joe and Anthony dive into the latest Monday Night Raw, breaking down the highs, lows, and everything in between. The guys discuss the rushed Maxine Dupree and Natty storyline, critique WWE’s current creative direction, and share their thoughts on the state of the women’s division. They also touch on the War Raiders’ booking, the ongoing saga of the Usos and New Day, and speculate about the future with so many top stars nearing retirement. Tthe hosts debate whether AI is secretly running WWE and what the company needs to do to get back on track.Show opens, Joe and Anthony banter about going live and introduce the show.Discussion about Monday Night Raw, initial reactions, and Anthony’s viewing habits.Raw review: Maxine Dupree and Natty promo, and the rushed storyline.Commentary on the state of WWE creative, including Triple H’s absence and speculation about AI writing the show.War Raiders segment: critique of the state of tag teams.Jay and Jim Uso segment, New Day’s involvement, and the lack of heat for tag titles.Talk about upcoming retirements: AJ Styles, Randy Orton, Sheamus, John Cena, and the future of WWE’s roster.Women’s division focus: Stephanie promo, Nikki Bella’s appearance, Raquel Rodriguez’s involvement.More on the women’s matches: Rox vs. Lyra Valkyria, makeup mishaps.Main event setup: Logan Paul, LA Knight, and the Masked Man angle.Criticism of Logan Paul’s inexperience and the need for better booking/protection of new talent.Final thoughts: lackluster promos, Gunther’s segment, and the overall poor quality of the show.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

0:00 – Opening banter, ice cream and mall food courts1:45 – Dippin' Dots and ice cream nostalgia3:03 – Bubble tea and unique drinks5:23 – Ben & Jerry’s, ice cream in Chicago8:22 – Movie and pop culture discussion18:56 – WWE, John Cena, and wrestling business talk31:11 – The Rock, Roman Reigns, and wrestling storylines47:23 – WWE business, ESPN, and pay-per-view pricing1:00:00 – Audience, ticket prices, and wrestling economics1:20:00 – Security at wrestling events, Paige story1:34:52 – Closing remarks, shoutouts, and outroBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

In this episode, Anthony and Joe deliver a sharp, humorous, and unfiltered review of WWE’s latest programming, focusing on the fallout from War Games and the current state of Monday Night Raw. They debate the quality of the pay-per-view, critique WWE’s creative direction and booking—especially the use of gimmick matches and the influence of agents and writers—and discuss the ongoing storylines involving Jay Uso, Roman Reigns, and the Bloodline. The hosts also spotlight the women’s division, particularly the evolving dynamic between Maxine Dupree and Natalya, and praise standout performances like Gunther’s match with Solo Sikoa. Throughout, they mix wrestling insight with fan perspective, touch on the live event experience and ticket prices, and offer forward-looking thoughts on WWE’s future, all while keeping the conversation lively and engaging.00:06 – The challenge of grading multi-person matches01:10 – Cage match gimmicks and creative frustrations05:31 – Blame game: creative, agents, and match quality06:10 – Extended intro and transition to Raw review06:10 – Jay Uso’s storyline and emotional promo18:11 – Roman Reigns, Bloodline, and the future of the faction22:55 – Under Armour ad parody and Maxine Dupree’s storyline30:33 – Natty as a mentor and women’s division storytelling36:00 – Maxine Dupree’s character direction and limitations54:00 – WWE’s use of veteran talent01:01:50 – Raw’s “epic” billing and show structure critique01:20:00 – Main event: Women’s tag match and aftermath01:28:36 – Closing thoughts, Gunther praise, and sign-offBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Wrestling Soup: WarGames 2025 - The "Vision" is BlurryJoe Numbas, Anthony, and Jon Draper (@iamjondraper @spitball_media) break down a chaotic night at Petco Park where cages were locked, legends were embarrassed, and masked men ruined the finish. We’re NOT a wrestling show, we’re a show that happens to witness John Cena get hit in the yam bag.Women's WarGames (The "Nostalgia" Pop): AJ Lee proves she can still go (and make people tap), Iyo Sky attempts to murder herself with a trash can dive, and Team Ripley picks up the win over Team "Why is Lash Legend here?".The Retirement Tour Detour: John Cena does the honors for Dominik Mysterio. We discuss the "passing of the torch" (or just passing of the heat) and whether Dom actually needs the Intercontinental Title.Liv Morgan’s "Shocking" Return: The swerve that wasn't really a swerve. Liv returns, teases a face turn, and immediately low-blows Cena. The Judgment Day soap opera continues forever.Stephanie Vaquer vs. Nikki Bella: A match that happened. Vaquer retains the Women's World Title, and we question if the "Bella Army" still has any recruits left in 2025.Men's WarGames (Old Guard vs. The Vision): The "Bloodline & Friends" reunion tour hits a wall. Brock Lesnar collects a massive paycheck to throw a few suplexes, and The Vision (Breakker, Reed, McIntyre, Logan Paul) actually gets the win.The Masked Man Mystery: Who helped Bron Breakker pin CM Punk? Was it Seth? Austin Theory? We fantasy book the worst possible options and complain about interference finishes in a cage match.Final Thoughts: Was this "Cinema" or just a very long episode of Raw with a fence?Listen to the show that HAPPENS to talk about wrestling.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

00:00 - Intro & Wrestling Soup Banter00:35 - John Cena & Becky Lynch Podcast Drama01:19 - Seth Rollins and John Morrison Comparisons02:33 - Becky Lynch’s Industry Revelations09:08 - Polygamy, Relationships, and Seth’s Past11:31 - Will Ospreay, Wrestling Risks & Injuries16:00 - Partying, Addiction, and Life Choices18:51 - Survivor Series Preview29:00 - Petco vs. PetSmart & Cat Food Tangent33:36 - Survivor Series Women’s Match Breakdown46:42 - Men’s War Games Match Analysis51:00 - John Cena vs. Dominic Mysterio53:20 - Fantasy Booking: Lumberjack Strap Match55:30 - Thanksgiving Wrap-Up & Outro56:17 - End of ShowBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

00:36 - Health Update & Sick Kids05:00 - Raw & SmackDown Ratings Discussion07:44 - AI in WWE & Creative Stagnation11:40 - Long Entrances & Filler Segments19:55 - Carmelo Hayes vs. Gunther Discussion21:01 - Gunther’s Character & Booking24:45 - USOs Tag Team Dynamics29:05 - Dominic Mysterio Angle36:00 - Ray Mysterio vs. JD McDonough40:07 - Becky Lynch, Nia Jax, and Women’s War Games Segment48:58 - Solo Sikoa vs. Penta & Injury54:00 - Logan Paul’s Role & Booking01:06:00 - Main Event Chaos & Show Wrap-upBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

00:00 - Intro & Spanish Commentary Surprises01:21 - Show Overview & First Impressions03:50 - Grande Americano: The Local Hero04:36 - Production Quality & No English Commentary06:10 - Lucha Libre vs. WWE Style07:47 - Recap: Why the Main Event Matters08:40 - Founders of AAA Presentation09:25 - Cruiserweight #1 Contender Match: Axiom vs. Jovan Evans vs. Octagon Jr.14:05 - Match Analysis: High-Flying Action & Selling16:11 - Jovan Evans Wins, Sets Up December 20th16:32 - Tag Team Chaos: Psycho Circus vs. El Hojo’s Team18:46 - No Rules, Wild Spots, and Table Bumps20:06 - Psycho Circus Wins, Aftermath & Wyatt 6 Tease24:01 - Promo: Vikingo & Dragon Lee, Crowd Reactions27:01 - Mixed Tag Team Title Match: Lola Vice & Mr. Iguana vs. Chelsea Green & Ethan Page30:41 - Intergender Action & WWE Influence33:01 - Finish: Kendo Stick, Title Retained, Wagner Run-In36:00 - Main Event: Dragon Lee, Vikingo, Grande Americano, Dominik Mysterio39:18 - Crowd Dynamics: Heels & Faces Reversed41:01 - Grande Americano’s Crowd Work43:00 - Match Finish: Grande Americano & Dominik Win45:00 - Lucha Brothers Challenge for December 20th47:00 - Final Thoughts & Upcoming Matches49:00 - Plugs: YouTube, Patreon, Socials52:00 - Outro & Thank YousBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Did people really hate Jar Jar Binks?James Earl Jones is the most recognizable voice for white nationalists in the galaxy.unpacking accidental hatredDid mental deficiencies hold Kanye back?Did Kim make Kanye worse?Fan gets weird with AJ LeeA practical way to stop stalkers in 2025The line between what makes a creepAncient Chinese secret on how to get rid of your Boston accentJoe talks about the SouthMish breaks down the new ad-pocalypseWrap up. Shitbox next week for Cena's retirement.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

00:00 – Cat stories and pet banter06:00 – Reincarnation jokes & animal personalities15:00 – Mercedes Moné’s belts & wrestling fandom25:00 – Marks, kayfabe, and fan double standards45:00 – AEW, Tony Khan, and wrestling media01:15:00 – Ratings talk, Jericho’s future, and the AEW roster01:30:00 – Bella Twins, Nick Hogan, and celebrity wrestling01:35:00 – Wrap-up & shoutoutsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Wrestling has been uneventful lately, but recent developments on SmackDown have sparked interest.Drew McIntyre is being positioned as a key member of "the Vision" stable, possibly replacing Seth Rollins.Drew has lost many matches in the past, but aligning him with Paul Heyman and others could revitalize his character.Bronson Reed is being elevated and is no longer treated as a secondary character.WWE often struggles to build multiple stars at once, focusing too much on one or two at a time.The Bloodline and Judgment Day stables succeeded because every member had a role and story.There’s skepticism about WWE’s long-term planning, especially with sudden changes due to injuries.Merchandise and branding are a big focus, sometimes at the expense of storytelling.Judgment Day members are likely to become babyfaces soon due to their popularity.Managers are lacking in WWE; bringing back more managers could help talent who struggle with promos.The women’s division is giving midcard titles to less experienced but marketable wrestlers.Some matches and segments (e.g., Maxine Dupree vs. Becky Lynch, Jade Cargill’s push) are criticized for prioritizing looks over in-ring skill.Ticket and merchandise prices are rising, but many feel the product quality isn’t keeping up.Nostalgia acts (like John Cena) are used to boost interest, but there’s concern about what comes after.The show’s structure sometimes puts the biggest moments at the start, making the rest feel less important.There’s debate about past booking decisions, like John Cena’s role in the Nexus storyline.New talent like Jevon Evans shows promise, but there’s concern about how WWE will develop them.The episode ends with thanks to listeners and promotion for related shows.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

0:00 – 13:00Show opens. Joe and Anthony greet each other and start discussing the AEW Blood and Guts show, with initial banter about recording and the state of the show.13:00 – 55:00Deep dive into AEW women’s wrestling: match quality, specific wrestlers (Sky Blue, Julia Hart, Mina Shirakawa, etc.), and comparisons to WWE. Includes jokes and critiques about in-ring skills and presentation.55:00 – 1:20:00Broader analysis of the women’s division, talent scouting, and the differences between AEW and WWE’s approach to developing female wrestlers. Discussion of individual potential and shortcomings.1:20:00 – 1:35:00The conversation shifts to the men’s division, with humorous commentary on appearance, performance, and the overall quality of AEW’s male roster. Includes tangents about pop culture, gaming, and generational differences.1:35:00 – End (~1:36:00)Closing thoughts, shoutouts to friends and other podcasts, and wrapping up the episode.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Anthony and Joe kick off the episode with technical difficulties and banter about everyday frustrations, quickly segueing into Thanksgiving travel woes and the quirks of city life. The conversation shifts to wrestling, with commentary on the current state of WWE and AEW, including recent releases, backstage drama, and the challenges of building new stars. They discuss the significance of John Cena’s return, the aging roster, and the future of the industry, touching on topics like ticket prices, fan engagement, and the economics of wrestling entertainment. The episode wraps up with a review of Monday Night Raw, thoughts on the women’s division, and reflections on the changing landscape of professional wrestling.1:10 – Thanksgiving plans, travel, and family stories3:00 – E-bikes, city traffic, and TikTok moments4:30 – Wrestling high spots, the evolution of risk, and show open5:15 – “Wrestling Soup” intro, weather, and Discord updates6:00 – AEW and WWE news, Sasha Banks, and the women’s 250 list8:00 – Teagan Knox walkout, enhancement talent, and backstage communication13:00 – WWE releases, indie vs. TV wrestling, and career trajectories17:00 – The ethics of walking out, fan reactions, and women’s wrestling narratives25:00 – Monday Night Raw recap: John Cena’s appearance, Triple H, and Boston crowd32:00 – Tournament talk: aging stars, new prospects, and the future of WWE38:00 – CM Punk, Paul Heyman, and the “season finale” energy of current storylines45:00 – The economics of wrestling, streaming, and fan accessibility50:00 – Reflections on John Cena’s legacy, accessibility, and fan engagement58:00 – Main event: Women’s tag match, War Games hype, and closing thoughts1:18:00 – Final banter, Patreon plugs, and sign-offBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

00:41 – Discussion of AEW fan signs, merchandise, and Hangman Page’s recent notoriety.02:54 – Introduction of AEW’s new book and its author “Keg”; first impressions.09:05 – Early history of Tony Khan’s wrestling fandom and the book’s revisionist approach.11:41 – The book’s portrayal of the wrestling landscape, including shots at NWA and other promotions.13:05 – Comparisons to DK encyclopedias and children’s books; the book’s visual style.14:31 – Excerpts from the book: Tony Khan’s early internet wrestling community experiences.23:29 – The real indie wrestling boom, with a critique of the book’s selective history.24:22 – TNA’s role in wrestling and the broader landscape of promotions.25:10 – AEW’s impact on the indies and the book’s self-promotional tone.26:38 – The “all-star” mentality of AEW and its approach to talent acquisition.35:14 – The timing of the book’s release and the perception of AEW as a “clown show.”37:25 – Satirical comparison: “If Scientology was a wrestling promotion, this would be AEW.”41:40 – Comparison of fast food pricing/business models to wrestling ticket pricing.45:30 – The Hart family, championship collecting, and the credibility of wrestling titles.57:13 – Introduction of AEW’s new championship and Tommy Dreamer’s reaction.59:13 – Dave Meltzer’s response to criticism about the proliferation of wrestling titles.1:02:01 – Jokes about the “Undisputed Continental” title and the absurdity of belt names.1:06:53 – Disney’s partnership with DraftKings and the implications for WWE.1:08:25 – WWE’s ticket pricing, touring model, and the economics of live events.1:22:34 – Broader challenges in wrestling and the cost of living.1:41:55 – Eva Marie’s interview about WWE, performing, and the Ridge Holland scenario.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Joe and Anthony introduce the new AEW book by Keith Elliot Greenberg and joke about AEW’s impact and fleeting trends.[01:15–02:42] Natty’s Book, Family, and Wrestling BooksDiscussion shifts to Natalya’s (Natty) book, her family, and playful speculation about her choices for the book’s foreword.[02:42–04:55] Q&A, Natty, and Wrestling CulturePat’s Q&A with Natty is mentioned, leading to a brainstorm of “offensive” questions and anecdotes about wrestling personalities.[04:55–07:07] Relationships, Social Media, and WWE RawThe conversation moves to wrestler relationships, breakups, and social media rumors, then transitions into a recap of WWE Raw.[07:07–19:27] Raw Recap: CM Punk, Logan Paul, and StorylinesDetailed breakdown of Raw’s opening: CM Punk’s promo, Logan Paul’s appearance, and the evolving heel/face dynamics.Discussion of crowd reactions, character motivations, and storyline complexity.[19:27–29:00] Character Arcs: Jay Uso, Logan Paul, and Group DynamicsIn-depth analysis of Jay Uso’s character, his “rehab” arc, and the challenges of keeping characters fresh.Debate about Logan Paul’s future role and potential alliances.[29:00–35:59] Women’s Division: Matches, Characters, and CritiqueReview of women’s matches, including Nikki Bella, Raquel Rodriguez, and others.Opinions on character development, in-ring chemistry, and the need for new talent.[35:59–44:01] Tag Teams, Promos, and Match QualityRecap of tag team matches, including AJ Styles and Dragon Lee vs. Judgment Day.Commentary on match repetition and crowd investment.[44:01–50:58] Judgment Day, Dominic Mysterio, and Family DramaFocus on Dominic Mysterio’s storyline with his father Rey, crowd reactions, and the challenge of maintaining heel heat.[50:58–57:29] Becky Lynch, Oscar, and Women’s StorylinesCritique of Becky Lynch’s promos, Oscar’s role, and the direction of the women’s division.[57:29–1:04:34] Tag Team Chemistry, Division Depth, and AEW vs. WWEAnalysis of tag team chemistry, the struggle to build new stars, and the believability of certain matchups.The conversation turns to AEW’s book, its cover, and comparisons to WWE’s marketing power.[1:04:34–1:21:20] Closing Thoughts, Book Covers, and Patreon ShoutoutsThe hosts wrap up with final thoughts, jokes about wrestling fandom, and sign off.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

04:30 – General Thoughts on the EventThe hosts share their initial impressions, noting the event’s short runtime and lack of commercials.06:00 – WWE’s Scheduling & LocationsDiscussion about WWE’s event scheduling, Las Vegas residencies, and the business side of show locations.09:00 – Cody Rhodes vs. Drew McIntyre MatchIn-depth analysis of the opening match, its formulaic nature, and Drew’s booking woes.Commentary on repeated knee injury spots and agent decisions.18:20 – Women’s Championship: Tiffany Stratton vs. Jade CargillCritique of the women’s title match, Jade’s readiness, and Tiffany’s regression.Speculation on alternative champions and the state of the women’s division.28:30 – Intercontinental Championship: Dominik, Penta, and SevThe hosts’ favorite match of the night, highlighting creative spots, crowd engagement, and why it stood out.34:00 – “Last Time is Now” Tournament & John Cena’s RetirementReactions to the announcement of the new tournament, speculation on participants, and thoughts on potential matchups.38:30 – Main Event: CM Punk vs. Jey Uso for the Vacant TitleDetailed breakdown of the main event, crowd reactions, and the booking logic.Discussion on the implications of Punk’s win and Jey Uso’s performance.45:00 – Event Wrap-Up & Final ThoughtsThe hosts reflect on the event as a whole, debate the best match, and tease future episodes.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

02:00 – Anthony and Joe discuss AI, music, and Luther Vandross09:30 – Cultural perceptions and coming out in the 80s/90s13:00 – Social media, bots, and the “dead internet” theory17:00 – Honesty and discourse on the internet, generational changes21:20 – Ronda Rousey’s interview, career, and public perception24:00 – Ronda’s transition from UFC to WWE, timeline, and fan reactions28:00 – Ronda’s WWE promos, apraxia, and criticism32:00 – Ronda’s current projects, validation, and public feuds36:00 – Tyrus, Trump, and wrestling’s political circus41:00 – Eddie Guerrero’s daughter Sherilyn starts wrestling, family drama46:00 – Late starts in wrestling, nepo babies, and industry challenges52:00 – Brad Maddox, Vince McMahon, and WWE’s odd rules58:00 – Paige, Chyna, and double standards in wrestling1:05:00 – Enzo Amore’s interview, firing, and rap response1:12:00 – Andrade’s AEW/WWE journey, family sacrifices, and future1:20:00 – Closing banter, Patreon plug, and Halloween wishesBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

0:00 – 1:00Uce Uce Uce Uce, 4 letters, one-word.1:00 – 5:00Initial reactions to Monday Night Raw. Anthony finds it “so bad it’s good,” while Joe is more forgiving. They riff on WWE’s quirks, including character nicknames and the ongoing “Kyrie sucks” storyline.5:00 – 10:00Discussion of Jey Uso’s prominence on Raw, the overuse of certain wrestlers, and WWE’s tendency to ignore negative fan feedback (e.g., YouTube dislikes). The hosts debate the logic behind booking decisions and the company’s response to criticism.10:00 – 20:00Analysis of the Jey/Jimmy Uso storyline, speculation about heel turns, and the “couples” trend in WWE. Joe and Anthony critique the lack of realism and emotional whiplash in the storytelling.20:00 – 30:00Match quality talk: praise for in-ring performances, even in less compelling storylines. Nikki Bella’s ongoing run is dissected, with jokes about her career trajectory and WWE’s habit of giving veterans “one last run.”30:00 – 40:00Regional and character humor: New York accents, Discord nicknames, and Bubba Ray Dudley’s creative advice for LA Knight. The hosts lampoon the idea of taking away LA Knight’s voice and WWE’s experimentation with AI.40:00 – 55:00LA Knight’s booking woes, the challenge of building new stars, and the disconnect between online wrestling discourse and reality. The conversation shifts to Rhea Ripley vs. Brock Lesnar comparisons and the pitfalls of trusting “fan” opinions.SmackDown as the “secondary brand,” the futility of brand splits, and nostalgia for the days when champions floated between shows. The hosts brainstorm fantasy Survivor Series matches (Irish vs. Samoans, “race war” jokes, etc.).Women’s division talk: Alexa Bliss, Charlotte, Bayley, and the awkwardness of current storylines. The hosts praise Bayley’s authenticity and critique the prevalence of cosmetic surgery among other wrestlers.Main event and title scene: Tiffany Stratton, Jade Cargill, and the booking of women’s championship matches. Predictions for upcoming events and speculation about Naomi’s return.Saturday Night’s Main Event preview: IC title match (Dominik Mysterio vs. Penta vs. Rusev), WWE and World Heavyweight title matches (Cody vs. Drew, CM Punk vs. Jey Uso). The hosts discuss possible outcomes, interference, and the future of various stars.1:31:00 – EndClosing thoughts: generational change in wrestling, the challenge of building new main eventers, and the emotional focus of current storylines (especially Jey Uso’s “feelings”). The show wraps with plugs for Patreon and a tease for the next episode.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

01:47 – 03:39 | Ticket Prices, TKO Era, and Hidden FeesAnthony breaks down the dramatic rise in wrestling ticket prices since the TKO era, including the impact of fees and taxes, and how attending live events has become more expensive.03:39 – 06:00 | The Cost of Entertainment & International ComparisonsJoe and Anthony share stories about the rising costs of entertainment, including ATM fees in the US and abroad, and how price gouging is everywhere.06:00 – 10:39 | Toy Collecting, Wrestling Figures, and AEW MerchAnthony recounts stories about rare wrestling toys, the decline in value of AEW merchandise, and the changing landscape of collectibles. The hosts discuss the local comic shop scene and the fate of AEW action figures.10:39 – 13:36 | MVP’s Critique of Wrestling JournalismAnthony plays a clip of MVP criticizing wrestling journalism, star ratings, and the disconnect between wrestlers and the media. The hosts analyze MVP’s points and the ongoing debate about wrestling coverage.13:36 – 22:00 | AEW’s Young Talent, Veteran Advice, and Industry FrustrationsA deep dive into the challenges of getting younger wrestlers to heed veteran advice, the career prospects of AEW stars, and the realities of aging in the business. The hosts debate whether it’s worth trying to change the culture.22:00 – 25:00 | Billy Gunn, Longevity, and the Next GenerationAnthony and Joe discuss Billy Gunn’s career after 60, his approach to wrestling, and the prospects for his sons in WWE.25:00 – 28:00 | Andrade, Non-Competes, and Wrestling ContractsThe conversation shifts to Andrade’s career moves, the complexities of non-compete clauses, and the peculiarities of wrestling contracts.28:00 – 32:00 | Vince Russo, NWA, and Wrestling’s Old GuardA humorous look at Vince Russo’s potential influence on NWA, the tropes he might bring, and the generational divide in wrestling creative.32:00 – 36:00 | Goldberg’s Streak, Legacy, and RetirementAnthony and Joe analyze Goldberg’s recent interview, his obsession with his win streak, and the broader implications for wrestling legacies.36:00 – 39:00 | Nakamura’s Ambitions, Foreign Heels, and WWE StorylinesDiscussion of Shinsuke Nakamura’s goal to become WWE champion, the “foreign heel” trope, and how classic wrestling storylines could be updated for today.39:00 – End (~1:05:17) | Closing Thoughts, Shoutouts, and Sign-OffBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Join LuFisto, Jeff Lippman, and Dr. Gina Possin for a full breakdown of LFG: every contestant, every coach, and a psychological look at the season!Timestamps:00:00 - Intro & Theme00:09 - Meet the Hosts & Special Guest01:41 - Dr. Gina Possin’s Background03:19 - What is IO Psychology?03:59 - Applying Psychology to Wrestling04:11 - Why Dr. Gina is Qualified04:59 - Wrestling as a Workplace08:25 - Bubba Ray Dudley: Coaching Style10:49 - Bubba’s Relationships with Contestants14:49 - Zena’s Journey & Leadership Fit21:56 - Ace Jameson’s Growth22:34 - Bubba’s Coaching Outcomes32:55 - Booker T: Dramatic Teaching & Tactics35:19 - Booker’s Team: Harlem, Chris Island, Tiana Duma57:40 - Serena’s Progress & Personality60:04 - Michelle McCool: Transformational Leadership65:24 - Michelle’s Team: Trill, Summer, Panina, Anthony Luke78:17 - Undertaker: Old School Meets New School88:27 - Drake Moreau’s Growth89:57 - Shiloh & Finals Analysis97:46 - Bailey Humphreys: Confidence & Sensitivity99:57 - Danny: Attitude, Character, and Winning102:24 - Sean’s Decisions & Contestant Reactions108:08 - Recovering from Loss & Career Advice110:50 - BJ Ray: Attitude, Self-Sabotage, and Manager Potential116:55 - Emotional Regulation in Wrestling120:41 - Coaches, Criticism, and Modern Athlete Mindset123:18 - Parenting, Entitlement, and Social Trends125:25 - Hosts’ Self-Analysis & Show Wrap-Up127:41 - Where to Follow the Hosts132:29 - Final Thoughts & OutroBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.