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.

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0:00 – 13:00
Show 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 – 55:00
Deep 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 – 1:20:00
Broader 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 – 1:35:00
The 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.


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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 stories
3:00 – E-bikes, city traffic, and TikTok moments
4:30 – Wrestling high spots, the evolution of risk, and show open
5:15 – “Wrestling Soup” intro, weather, and Discord updates
6:00 – AEW and WWE news, Sasha Banks, and the women’s 250 list
8:00 – Teagan Knox walkout, enhancement talent, and backstage communication
13:00 – WWE releases, indie vs. TV wrestling, and career trajectories
17:00 – The ethics of walking out, fan reactions, and women’s wrestling narratives
25:00 – Monday Night Raw recap: John Cena’s appearance, Triple H, and Boston crowd
32:00 – Tournament talk: aging stars, new prospects, and the future of WWE
38:00 – CM Punk, Paul Heyman, and the “season finale” energy of current storylines
45:00 – The economics of wrestling, streaming, and fan accessibility
50:00 – Reflections on John Cena’s legacy, accessibility, and fan engagement
58:00 – Main event: Women’s tag match, War Games hype, and closing thoughts
1:18:00 – Final banter, Patreon plugs, and sign-off

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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.


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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 Books

Discussion 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 Culture

Pat’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 Raw

The 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 Storylines

Detailed 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 Dynamics

In-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 Critique

Review 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 Quality

Recap 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 Drama

Focus 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 Storylines

Critique 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. WWE

Analysis 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 Shoutouts

The 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 Event
  • The hosts share their initial impressions, noting the event’s short runtime and lack of commercials.
• 06:00 – WWE’s Scheduling & Locations
  • Discussion about WWE’s event scheduling, Las Vegas residencies, and the business side of show locations.
• 09:00 – Cody Rhodes vs. Drew McIntyre Match
  • In-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 Cargill
  • Critique 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 Sev
  • The 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 Retirement
  • Reactions 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 Title
  • Detailed 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 Thoughts
  • The hosts reflect on the event as a whole, debate the best match, and tease future episodes.

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02:00 – Anthony and Joe discuss AI, music, and Luther Vandross
09:30 – Cultural perceptions and coming out in the 80s/90s
13:00 – Social media, bots, and the “dead internet” theory
17:00 – Honesty and discourse on the internet, generational changes
21:20 – Ronda Rousey’s interview, career, and public perception
24:00 – Ronda’s transition from UFC to WWE, timeline, and fan reactions
28:00 – Ronda’s WWE promos, apraxia, and criticism
32:00 – Ronda’s current projects, validation, and public feuds
36:00 – Tyrus, Trump, and wrestling’s political circus
41:00 – Eddie Guerrero’s daughter Sherilyn starts wrestling, family drama
46:00 – Late starts in wrestling, nepo babies, and industry challenges
52:00 – Brad Maddox, Vince McMahon, and WWE’s odd rules
58:00 – Paige, Chyna, and double standards in wrestling
1:05:00 – Enzo Amore’s interview, firing, and rap response
1:12:00 – Andrade’s AEW/WWE journey, family sacrifices, and future
1:20:00 – Closing banter, Patreon plug, and Halloween wishes

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

0:00 – 1:00
Uce Uce Uce Uce, 4 letters, one-word.

1:00 – 5:00
Initial 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 – 10:00
Discussion 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 – 20:00
Analysis 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 – 30:00
Match 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 – 40:00
Regional 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 – 55:00
LA 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 – End
Closing 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 Fees

Anthony 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 Comparisons

Joe 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 Merch

Anthony 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 Journalism

Anthony 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 Frustrations

A 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 Generation

Anthony 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 Contracts

The 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 Guard

A 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 Retirement

Anthony 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 Storylines

Discussion 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-Off

Become 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 & Theme
00:09 - Meet the Hosts & Special Guest
01:41 - Dr. Gina Possin’s Background
03:19 - What is IO Psychology?
03:59 - Applying Psychology to Wrestling
04:11 - Why Dr. Gina is Qualified
04:59 - Wrestling as a Workplace
08:25 - Bubba Ray Dudley: Coaching Style
10:49 - Bubba’s Relationships with Contestants
14:49 - Zena’s Journey & Leadership Fit
21:56 - Ace Jameson’s Growth
22:34 - Bubba’s Coaching Outcomes
32:55 - Booker T: Dramatic Teaching & Tactics
35:19 - Booker’s Team: Harlem, Chris Island, Tiana Duma
57:40 - Serena’s Progress & Personality
60:04 - Michelle McCool: Transformational Leadership
65:24 - Michelle’s Team: Trill, Summer, Panina, Anthony Luke
78:17 - Undertaker: Old School Meets New School
88:27 - Drake Moreau’s Growth
89:57 - Shiloh & Finals Analysis
97:46 - Bailey Humphreys: Confidence & Sensitivity
99:57 - Danny: Attitude, Character, and Winning
102:24 - Sean’s Decisions & Contestant Reactions
108:08 - Recovering from Loss & Career Advice
110:50 - BJ Ray: Attitude, Self-Sabotage, and Manager Potential
116:55 - Emotional Regulation in Wrestling
120:41 - Coaches, Criticism, and Modern Athlete Mindset
123:18 - Parenting, Entitlement, and Social Trends
125:25 - Hosts’ Self-Analysis & Show Wrap-Up
127:41 - Where to Follow the Hosts
132:29 - Final Thoughts & Outro

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Join Anthony and Joe as they dive into the latest in wrestling, from WWE and AEW drama to in-depth match analysis, character arcs, and the wild world of wrestling personalities. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and check out our Patreon for exclusive content!

Timestamps:
00:00 - Weekend Wrestling Recap: WWE in Japan & AEW’s Big Event
09:45 - AEW’s Late-Night Antics & Family Friendly Drowning?
18:00 - Warner Brothers Sale Rumors & AEW’s Ongoing Issues
43:00 - Darby Allin’s Recklessness and Character Analysis
54:35 - WWE Raw Review: Character Work & Maxine’s Standout Performance
01:05:00 - Becky Lynch, Paul Heyman, and the Power Dynamic
01:10:00 - Tag Team Championship: AJ Styles & Dragon Lee vs. Judgment Day
01:13:00 - Women’s Division, Kabuki Warriors, and Show Wrap-Up

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00:20 – Andrade Watch 2025
Speculation runs wild about Andrade’s absence from TV, with plenty of jokes and theories about his whereabouts and contract status.

02:17 – Show Intro & Brian Alvarez Drivel
Anthony officially introduces the show and shares updates from Brian Alvarez on Andrade’s situation.

02:47 – Andrade WWE Non-Compete Clause
The hosts dig into the details of WWE’s non-compete clauses, what they mean for Andrade, and how they affect wrestlers’ careers.

04:04 – Wrestling News as Sports Radio
A humorous comparison of wrestling news coverage to bad sports talk radio, poking fun at the rumor mill.

12:30 – Unpaid Year Off?
Anthony and Joe debate the fairness and legality of unpaid non-compete periods for released wrestlers.

20:00 – WWE’s Global Expansion
The conversation turns to WWE’s decision to host WrestleMania in Saudi Arabia, fan reactions, and the business behind global events.

29:20 – AEW’s Training Center Plans
A look at AEW’s scrapped plans for a dedicated training facility and what it means for talent development.

41:20 – Seth Rollins Injury Rumors
The hosts address rumors about Seth Rollins’ injury, storyline pivots, and the blurred lines between fiction and reality in wrestling.

58:30 – Media Store Nostalgia
A nostalgic detour into the decline of music and media stores like Best Buy and FYE, and how the industry has changed.

1:18:00 – Jericho’s Rock ‘N’ Wrestling Rager at Sea
A rundown of the 2026 cruise lineup, notable guests, and what it says about the current state of wrestling.

1:27:20 – Wrap-Up & Shoutouts
The episode closes with shoutouts to listeners, Patreon supporters, and final thoughts on the week in wrestling.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

0:00 – Introduction & Season Recap

LuFisto opens the show, referencing the LFG finals and the end of season two.
Jeff reveals that LFT season three has been renewed and discusses recent roster changes, including surprise releases.

1:51 – Commercials & International Broadcasts

Discussion about WWE commercials, international viewing experiences, and background appearances by wrestlers.

3:43 – Surprising Releases & Character Analysis

The hosts analyze the release of Hayes Jameson and speculate on possible reasons (injury, personal choice, or character fit).
They discuss the evolution of certain characters and the importance of unique personas in wrestling.

7:16 – Men’s Finalist Rematch: Harlem Lewis vs. Drake Morrow

Detailed breakdown of the rematch, including in-ring psychology, character work, and match flow.
Commentary on wrestling techniques, storytelling, and the importance of intensity in high-stakes matches.

19:17 – Post-Match Reflections & Character Futures

Reflections on the match outcome, Shawn Michaels’ decision-making, and the future potential of both finalists.
Discussion of how certain wrestlers fit into the current NXT landscape.

24:00 – Shiloh Hill’s Presence & Storytelling

Analysis of Shiloh Hill’s character, his on-screen demeanor, and the importance of subtle storytelling in wrestling.

26:30 – Reality of Wrestling Segment

Booker T’s segment with Harlem Lewis, emphasizing the importance of “checks and championships.”
The hosts discuss the significance of wrestling culture and personal motivation.

32:47 – Women’s Final: Danni  vs. P Nasty

In-depth play-by-play of the women’s final, including entrances, match psychology, and key spots.
Critique of match pacing, character work, and crowd engagement.

46:00 – Match Analysis & Judges’ Reactions

The hosts and coaches reflect on the strengths and weaknesses of the women’s match.
Discussion of what makes a compelling wrestling character and the importance of presence and consistency.

54:00 – Shiloh vs. Harlem: The Men’s Final

Breakdown of the men’s final, including entrances, crowd reactions, and in-ring storytelling.
Commentary on the abrupt finish and what could have made the match more satisfying.

1:10:00 – Judges’ Deliberation & Final Decisions

Coaches and Shawn Michaels deliberate on the winners, discussing criteria for selection and the unique qualities of each finalist.
The hosts debate the logic behind the final choices and the importance of explaining decisions to the audience.

1:20:00 – Reflections on the Show’s Format & Suggestions

Suggestions for improving the judging system, including the idea of rotating judges and more transparency in scoring.
Discussion of the value of diversity and representation in wrestling.

1:30:00 – Closing Thoughts & Future Plans

The hosts promote upcoming content, including a retrospective episode with Dr. Gina Posan.
Final thoughts on the season, shoutouts to the wrestling community, and recommendations for the documentary “Lunatic: The Luna Vachon Story.”
Social media plugs and encouragement for listener feedback.

1:36:00 – Outro

LuFisto and Jeff sign off, teasing one more show and thanking listeners for their support.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

• [00:00] Saturday Morning Wrestling & Childhood Throwbacks
  • Joe and Anthony kick things off talking about the weirdness (and secret perks) of watching wrestling at 8am. It’s like being a kid again, but with more coffee and less cereal.
• [04:00] Perth Crowd, Ticket Prices, and “Is Perth Even a Real Place?”
  • The guys riff on WWE’s big show in Perth, the wild ticket prices, and whether anyone actually talks about Perth outside of wrestling. Spoiler: not really.
• [10:00] RAW vs. Crown Jewel & Seth’s “Is He Hurt or Not?” Saga
  • They get into the never-ending Seth Rollins injury drama, why nobody believes anything anymore, and how WWE storylines sometimes make less sense than a fever dream.
• [18:00] LA Knight: The Best-Looking Guy Who Can’t Catch a Break
  • LA Knight’s booking gets roasted. Is he an underdog? Is he a cocky heel? Why does he keep tripping over his own feet? The guys have thoughts (and jokes).
• [25:00] Becky Lynch, Factions, and “What Even Is This Storyline?”
  • Becky’s name comes up, but so does the fact that half the storylines just got nuked. Expect some classic “what are they even doing?” rants.
• [32:00] Bailey, Lyra, and the Women’s Division: Chaos & Chemistry
  • Bailey’s new vibe, Lyra’s straight-man energy, and why the women’s division is a wild ride right now. Also, a surprising amount of talk about wrestling gear.
• [40:00] Referees, Announcers, and “Back in My Day…”
  • A trip down memory lane: when refs and announcers had actual personalities, and why today’s shows could use a little more flavor (and a little less sameness).
• [48:00] Dominic Mysterio vs. Penta: Cheating Done Right
  • Dominic’s heel antics get a breakdown, plus a debate on whether being “too smart” is a good thing for a bad guy. Also, some love for old-school Eddie Guerrero tricks.
• [56:00] Rhea Ripley, Asuka, and “Why Is This So Complicated?”
  • Rhea, Asuka, Kairi Sane, and a whole lot of chaos in the women’s title scene. The guys try to make sense of it all (and mostly just laugh about it).
• [1:03:00] Bronson Reed, Jimmy & Jay Uso, and Tag Team Tangents
  • Bronson Reed’s gear, Jimmy vs. Jay, and why some tag teams just feel like reheated pizza. Expect some sidebars and a few “what are they wearing?” moments.
• [1:10:00] Main Event: Jay Uso, LA Knight, and CM Punk
  • The crowd sings for Punk, LA Knight almost wins, and the guys wonder if we really need another Seth vs. Punk feud. Also: more jokes about fruit punch boxes.
• [1:18:00] Wrap-Up & Randomness
  • Final thoughts, a few more rants, and a reminder to check out the Patreon. If you made it this far, you’re a real one.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

0:25 — Official show intro: "Wrestling Soup" with Anthony Thomas and Joey Numbers.
0:50 — Banter about the "Crown Jewel Post Show" and some lighthearted police siren jokes.
Roman Reigns & Bronson Reed Match
1:30 — Discussion about the opening match: Roman Reigns vs. Bronson Reed.
3:20 — Anthony and Joe debate the match’s pacing, outcome, and the ongoing Bloodline storyline.
7:00 — Reflections on the "Australian Street Fight" and how it compares to other street fights.
10:00 — Commentary on the house show feel of the event and the crowd’s reaction.
Women’s Crown Jewel Championship
14:50 — Transition to the women’s match: Tiffany Stratton vs. Stephanie.
15:50 — Analysis of the match, both hosts noting Tiffany’s regression and Stephanie’s role as the aggressor.
18:00 — Discussion about Triple H’s involvement and the awkwardness of the post-match celebration.
Audience & WWE Creative
20:00 — Commentary on WWE’s creative direction, Triple H’s TED talk, and the challenges of keeping the product fresh.
22:00 — Banter about Seth Rollins, Becky Lynch, and the need for stronger storylines and character development.
John Cena vs. AJ Styles
27:00 — Recap of the John Cena vs. AJ Styles match, comparing it to a "greatest hits" performance.
30:00 — Reflections on the significance of AJ Styles’ and John Cena’s careers, especially for Australian fans.
33:00 — Discussion of the match’s many finishers and the crowd’s reaction.
Women’s Tag Team Match
38:00 — Analysis of the women’s tag match: EO Sky & Rhea Ripley vs. Asuka & Kairi Sane.
41:00 — Thoughts on the end of the Kabuki Warriors feud and the future direction for the women’s division.
Main Event: Seth Rollins vs. Cody Rhodes
44:50 — Main event discussion: Seth Rollins vs. Cody Rhodes.
47:00 — Critique of the match’s length, pacing, and outcome, with both hosts feeling the wrong person won.
50:00 — Reflections on the lack of crowd energy and the need for Becky Lynch at ringside.
Closing Thoughts
55:00 — Final thoughts on the event, best and worst matches, and the overall direction of WWE.
58:20 — Outro: Thanks to listeners, Patreon plug, and sign-off.

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00:00 – AEW Attendance Controversy & Ticket Numbers
Anthony and Joe open with a deep dive into AEW’s reported attendance numbers, NDAs, and the ongoing debate about truth in wrestling promotion.

07:30 – The Ratings Game: NXT vs. Dynamite
Discussion shifts to TV ratings, fan excuses, and the real audience size for wrestling shows.

13:00 – AEW’s Place in the Industry
A critical look at AEW’s current status, company culture, and how it compares to WWE and TNA.

16:30 – Crown Jewel Preview & Early Morning Wrestling
The hosts preview WWE’s Crown Jewel event, discuss the challenges of international shows, and share thoughts on watching wrestling at odd hours.

21:00 – Match-by-Match Crown Jewel Predictions
Detailed breakdowns and predictions for Roman Reigns vs. Bronson Reed, Rhea Ripley & IYO SKY vs. Asuka & Kairi Sane, and more.

32:00 – Women’s Division: Growth, Stagnation, and Storylines
A candid discussion about the women’s division, character development, and the challenges facing stars like Tiffany Stratton and Charlotte Flair.

45:00 – WWE Ticket Prices & The “Family Company” Debate
Anthony and Joe debate WWE’s claim of being family-friendly in light of rising ticket and merchandise prices.

54:00 – Mental Health in Wrestling: Big E’s Story
A heartfelt segment on Big E’s mental health journey, therapy, and the importance of openness in the wrestling community.

1:05:00 – Contract News & Industry Moves
Updates on recent contract renewals, departures, and the realities of career moves in wrestling.

1:15:00 – Final Thoughts & What’s Next
The hosts wrap up with shoutouts, upcoming show plugs, and a reminder to join them for more wrestling talk.

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00:00 – Kevin Nash & Wrestling Royalties
Anthony and Joe open with a discussion about Kevin Nash’s royalty check woes, the business of wrestling merchandise, and how the TKO sale has impacted payouts for legends and stockholders.

03:30 – WWE’s Changing Audience & Business Model
The conversation shifts to WWE’s evolving business strategy: higher ticket prices, catering to wealthier audiences, and speculation about a possible Saudi buyout.

10:00 – Nick Khan, TKO Era, and Corporate Takeover
The hosts analyze Nick Khan’s influence, the TKO era, and whether WWE’s leadership is being overrun by corporate greed.

16:00 – The Future of WWE & Wrestling’s Investment Value
Debate about WWE as a long-term investment, the fate of the company under TKO, and the difference between past and present wrestling ownership.

22:00 – Monday Night Raw Recap & Production Critique
Anthony and Joe break down the latest Raw, including match pacing, production quirks, and the “Australian Street Fight” promo.

30:00 – Women’s Division: Kairi Sane, Asuka, and Bayley
A deep dive into the women’s division: Kairi Sane’s reputation for injuring opponents, Asuka’s standout performance, and Bayley’s current character direction.

40:00 – Main Event: CM Punk & LA Knight vs. The Usos
Recap and analysis of the main event, including the chemistry between Punk and LA Knight, and thoughts on the show’s overall flow.

47:00 – Closing Banter & Upcoming Content
The hosts discuss wrestling merch oddities (body pillows, towels), upcoming shows, and shoutouts to friends and other podcasts.

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00:00 – 02:15 | Opening Banter & The Saudi Takeover

Anthony and Joe open the show discussing Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in sports and entertainment, poking fun at recent high-profile purchases and the ethics of “selling out.”

02:15 – 03:45 | Call-In Chaos & The Return of the Soup Hotline

Reminiscing about the old call-in number, random callers, and plans to bring back live audience interaction.

03:45 – 06:00 | Comedy, Contracts, and the Price of Fame

A sharp, funny discussion about comedians like Bill Burr and Kevin Hart taking big-money Saudi gigs, and the moral gymnastics of the entertainment industry.

06:00 – 08:55 | Bill Burr, Anthony Cumia, and the Ethics of Friendship

A deep dive into the Bill Burr/Anthony Cumia drama, cancel culture, and the shifting lines of loyalty and morality in comedy and wrestling.

08:55 – 15:00 | John Cena’s Retirement: Hype, Ticket Prices, and WWE’s Strategy

Breaking down the upcoming John Cena retirement event, wild ticket prices, and WWE’s marketing moves. Includes a hilarious riff on what $11,500 gets you at a wrestling show.

15:00 – 22:00 | Dave & Buster’s, Human Crane Games, and Arcade Hustles

Anthony shares a story about dominating arcade games, winning prizes, and the weird world of human crane machines.

22:00 – 27:00 | TNA, Kurt Angle, and Wrestling’s Wildest Years

A nostalgic and irreverent look at TNA’s “Beautiful People” era, Kurt Angle’s drug-fueled run, and the tragic history of wrestling’s biggest stars.

27:00 – 33:00 | Generational Grief, Social Media, and Wrestling Tragedies

Reflecting on how wrestling fans process loss, the impact of social media, and the generational divide in mourning wrestling legends.

33:00 – 40:00 | Andrade’s Return, Rumors, and Wrestling’s Drug Culture

A candid discussion about Andrade’s WWE release, wellness policy violations, and the ongoing issues of drugs in wrestling.

40:00 – 50:00 | WWE’s Global Expansion, Crown Jewel, and Branding Oddities

Riffing on WWE’s international branding, the oddity of “Crown Jewel” in Australia, and the future of global wrestling events.

50:00 – 1:10:00 | Reality TV, Coaching Drama, and the Next Generation

A lively debate about WWE’s reality shows, coaching changes, and which legends should be mentoring the next crop of wrestling talent.

1:10:00 – 1:30:00 | Lacey Evans, Copyright Crusades, and Wrestling’s Internet Age

Wrapping up with a wild segment on Lacey Evans’ DMCA takedowns, the challenges of erasing your past online, and the absurdity of wrestling’s digital drama.

1:30:00 – End | Listener Shoutouts & Plugs

Listener shoutouts, plugs for Frank & Gus, and a reminder to check out Spitball Media and the Wrestling Soup Patreon!

—

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• (00:00:00) The LFG Screwjob: The hosts discuss Drake Moreau's controversial return to replace BJ Ray and join Team Bubba, debating whether it was a legitimate technicality or a move of charity.
• (00:08:44) Promo Battle: Anthony Luke vs. Shiloh Hill: A look at the intense, face-to-face promo leading into the first men's semi-final match.
• (00:12:48) Match Breakdown: Luke vs. Hill: The crew analyzes the stellar TV match, praising Anthony Luke's ring awareness and Shiloh's impressive offense, which The Undertaker called main-show-ready.
• (00:19:42) The Verdict on Luke: The judges choose Shiloh to advance. The hosts debate the decision and praise Anthony Luke's powerful exit promo.
• (00:24:25) Promo Battle: Nasty vs. Zena Sterling: A look at the completely one-sided promo where Nasty verbally dismantled a frozen Zena Sterling.
• (00:27:00) Match Breakdown: Nasty vs. Zena: A critical review of the match where Zena appeared lost, leading to "ghost bumps" and criticism from the coaches, while Nasty delivered on her powerhouse reputation.
• (00:34:55) Promo Battle: The Spitfires: Danny Zukowski and Serena Lyndon face off in a promo battle where Danny's intensity felt real and captivating.
• (00:39:19) Match Breakdown: Zukowski vs. Lyndon: The hosts critique the fast and sometimes sloppy pacing of the match but praise the heel work and key spots, including Serena's 450 splash into a Hell's Gate submission.
• (00:48:29) Promo Battle: Harlem vs. Drake Moreau: Analyzing the promo where Harlem calls Drake a charity case, and Drake fires back with promises of a violent victory.
• (00:52:43) Match Breakdown: Harlem vs. Drake: A deep dive into the physical, well-paced main event. The hosts are impressed with Drake's fire and vastly improved offense, including his discus lariat and chokeslam.
• (01:00:03) A Hung Jury: The judges' vote ends in a 2-2 tie, forcing a rematch in the finale. The hosts discuss Booker T's biased questioning and Harlem's surprisingly professional response.
• (01:05:00) Final Predictions: Looking ahead to the finale, the hosts debate who they want to win and who they think the company needs to win from the remaining men and women.
• (01:15:31) Outro & Plugs

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• [0:00] – Joe and Anthony open the show with banter about the Super Bowl halftime show, Bad Bunny, and pop culture reactions.
• [1:40] – Discussion about Adele, public perceptions, and the shift in halftime show performers.
• [6:00] – The conversation shifts to Monday Night Raw, with Anthony expressing excitement to discuss wrestling.
• [7:00] – Commentary on body image, public criticism of wrestlers, and the evolution of audience attitudes.
• [10:40] – In-depth analysis of the women’s division storyline, focusing on Rhea Ripley, Iyo Sky, and Asuka, including acting critiques and storytelling nuances.
• [18:00] – Anthony and Joe discuss the pacing and structure of WWE segments, with suggestions for improvement.
• [23:00] – Reflections on the complexity of current WWE storylines, character development, and audience engagement.
• [28:00] – The hosts analyze the dynamics between Cody Rhodes, Seth Rollins, and other main event figures, critiquing the storytelling and character motivations.
• [36:00] – Discussion about LA Knight, Adam Pearce, and the undercard, including thoughts on missed opportunities and WWE’s booking decisions.
• [44:00] – The episode covers the tag team division, the role of authority figures, and the evolution of certain wrestlers’ personas.
• [50:00] – Joe and Anthony reflect on the international roster, backstage influences, and the longevity of certain wrestlers in WWE.
• [56:00] – The main event is recapped, including the tornado tag match, Roman Reigns’ appearance, and the crowd’s reaction.
• [1:05:00] – Closing thoughts on the episode, including personal updates, shoutouts, and reminders to subscribe and follow the show.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.