WRESTLING SOUP

Anthony and Joe discuss the fallout of WrestleMania 42, beginning with the shocking departures of New Day members Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods, which were reportedly sparked by "insulting" 50% pay cut offers . They critique TKO/Endeavor's pivot away from traditional wrestling storytelling in favor of a celebrity-heavy product, questioning if the company even realizes they are making a television show . The guys riff on John Cena's constant "Make-A-Wish" style appearances in suits and the "fifth wall" being broken by athletic streamers like IShowSpeed . The conversation expands into a broader social critique of "circular scams" and corporate greed, comparing WWE's current business model to Walmart weight scams and the Spirit Airlines collapse . The episode wraps up with a look at the "AI-assisted" creative slump in WWE, the polarizing longevity of Danhausen, and a wild theory that Tom Brady might be training for a Lucha Libre debut under a mask .Timestamps:0:00 – Post-WrestleMania Departures: The New Day's Exit8:30 – The 50% Pay Cut Insult & Shareholder Value Rants16:15 – John Cena's Suit-and-Tie "Figurehead" Status22:50 – Breaking the Fifth Wall: IShowSpeed & Celeb Wrestling28:10 – Jelly Roll & the Lack of a Cultural "Monoculture"34:45 – Corporate Greed: Walmart Shrimp & Spirit Airlines Failures40:10 – Firing the "Worst Samoans" & Nia Jax's Heat46:25 – New Day's Tag Team Legacy vs. TKO's Short-Term Thinking52:00 – ChatGPT Creative: The Future of AI-Assisted Storylines57:30 – Tom Brady Masked Lucha Theories & Baby Jill Shout-outBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Jeff and Lufisto kick off Season 3 of the Legends and Future Greats (LFG) show with a status update on Lufisto's "titanium" shoulder recovery and a deep dive into the recent wave of WWE releases. They compare the current state of NXT/Evolve talent to The Walking Dead, meticulously analyzing why athletes like Tyra May Steele and Trill London may have struggled despite their high pedigrees. The duo explores the shift in the LFG format, focusing on Shawn Michaels' need to replenish the roster following call-ups to Raw and SmackDown. The conversation moves from the technical aspects of "professional courtesy" during ring entrances to the psychological drive needed to handle blunt critiques from coaches like Booker T and Kevin Owens. They conclude by breaking down the "phony baloney" of reality-TV-style signings, the importance of "menace" in a wrestler's presence, and a sharp critique of TKO's security failures following a recent fan incident.0:00 – Season 3 Intro / Lufisto's successful shoulder surgery recovery 4:30 – WWE releases: Comparing the NXT roster to The Walking Dead 11:15 – The "Matt Bloom" factor: Why heart matters more than athleticism at the PC 18:30 – Talent Status Reports: Nikita Lyons, Shiloh Hill, and Drake Monroe 24:00 – New Season Format: No points, no teams, just replenishing the roster 28:15 – Meet the Coaches: Kevin Owens' neck surgery and Natalia's Dungeon training 38:00 – Match 1 Breakdown: Nikita Lyons vs. Kelly Armstrong & the rules of "Professional Courtesy" 46:30 – Technical Critique: Snap bumps, leg drop splits, and slowing down the pacing 52:45 – Keanu Carver's Backstory: From college football and DoorDash to fighting with Booker T 1:04:30 – Kevin Owens' Advice: Making your offense match your presence 1:11:00 – Match 2 Breakdown: Kendall Gray vs. PJ Vasser & the origin of the name 1:16:45 – "Happy Feet" and Selling: The psychology of big girl vs. small girl dynamics 1:21:15 – Season Teasers: The "phony baloney" of the Kendall Gray signing 1:24:00 – Wrap-up: Lufisto's documentary "The Selling Stage" and TKO's security failures Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Anthony and Joe record from a temporary new space, discussing the transition to a home with an acre of land and the financial sanity of renting versus owning. They explore the "Dead Internet" theory and the prevalence of AI bots, while warning against the dangers of flaunting physical cash on social media. The conversation takes a culinary turn with a breakdown of Gordon Ramsay's scrambled egg technique and the "exceptional" addition of pesto to breakfast. Turning to wrestling, the guys analyze the latest wave of WWE roster cuts—or "bus flips"—noting reports that these releases are age-related as the company aims for a younger roster. They debate the botched handling of Kairi Sane's departure, the "slow death" of Santos Escobar on the main roster, and why the Wyatt Six gimmick is "deep for the sake of being deep". The episode wraps up with thoughts on Alexa Bliss retiring her spooky persona, a critique of the "tepid" Laredo crowd, and a satirical pitch for a "Himbo" title to solve the Roman Reigns problem.Timestamps:0:00 – Intro / New space and yard life 8:42 – The Renting vs. Buying debate 18:15 – Cash, cops, and the "Dead Internet" theory 27:30 – Gordon Ramsay's eggs and the Pesto Protocol 33:10 – WWE "Bus Flips" & age-related roster cuts 45:20 – Kairi Sane's exit and the Asuka storyline fail 1:02:15 – Tony D'Angelo vs. the "tepid" Laredo crowd 1:15:40 – Aleister Black and the Wyatt Six critique 1:32:00 – Danhausen's name and Santos Escobar's "slow death" 1:44:30 – Andre Chase, Zoey Stark, and redhead genetics 1:56:15 – Plastic surgery trends and Alexa Bliss retiring the goth look 2:08:45 – The "Himbo" title pitch & Wrap-up Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Anthony and Joe break down the latest in wrestling news, starting with a wave of retirement announcements including Pat McAfee, Nikki Bella, and Billy Gunn's take on his own career future. The guys discuss the dangers of wrestlers overextending themselves across too many ventures, debate which WWE women could pull off a hardcore match, and riff on the absurdity of The Rock producing a Fighting with My Family stage musical. They also get into the parasocial entitlement of wrestling fans, AEW's merch problems, MJF's ceiling in WWE, Dan Hausen's potential, and the security failures at WrestleMania 42 weekend — including X-Pac's assault claims at the MGM Grand.Timestamps:0:00 – Intro / Three WWE retirements in 24 hours1:56 – Pat McAfee retirement breakdown16:32 – The WrestleMania ads controversy17:13 – Parasocial relationships24:00 – Back to retirements: Nikki Bella25:41 – Fantasy booking a hardcore Nikki Bella run29:27 – Brit Baker at the NFL Draft31:20 – AEW Boys & Girls Club37:55 – Billy Gunn's retirement comments & his attitude57:06 – The Rock producing a musical1:05:10 – MJF's ceiling in WWE & Dan Hausen's future1:11:24 – AEW merch problems & fired designers1:17:59 – X-Pac assaulted at WrestleMania 42 weekend1:23:17 – MGM Grand security failures & TKO cheapness1:25:59 – Wrap-upBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

0:21 – Sol Ruca & Jojo Siwa's brutal moment2:58 – Is Tony D'Angelo the worst NXT champ ever?10:27 – Bronn Breaker's future & OBA's momentum15:57 – Brock Lesnar retirement: Is Summer Slam the final match?22:58 – Billy Gunn on what's wrong with modern wrestling25:33 – Fan reactions to Billy Gunn's comments36:32 – WWE going to Saudi Arabia during a war zone41:21 – TKO CEO Mark Shapiro audio: "Making enemies is fine"46:09 – Shapiro celebrates fans paying $1,000/year for sports59:39 – CM Punk confronts a fan; fan entitlement is getting worse1:01:43 – TKO is breeding entitled fans1:05:19 – Booker T's WrestleMania hotel horror story1:11:54 – Hulk Hogan Netflix documentary review1:19:33 – Moments of genuine humanity in the Hogan doc1:33:36 – Stephanie McMahon & Paige's emotional interview1:42:00 – Dream Legends House cast1:48:49 – Jim Cornett appreciation & outroBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Joe and Anthony break down Monday Night Raw the night after WrestleMania, covering every match, promo, debut, and storyline development. Topics include Roman Reigns and the Bloodline, CM Punk's move to SmackDown, the Cody Rhodes concussion promo, WWE's corporate ad problem, the Hulk Hogan Netflix documentary, and much more.Timestamps:0:00 – Intro / Tribal Chief talk & Roman Reigns discussion1:06 – WWE's "Disney Adults" theory & the Roman fanbase4:43 – Jacob Fatu fed to Roman / USOs back / Jay Uso's failed push6:11 – Post-Mania roster shuffles, Ethan Page & Sol Ruca debuts8:11 – CM Punk's goodbye promo & the fan altercation in Vegas11:03 – Show intro / five days in a row / NXT Battleground pass13:20 – Bronson Breaker busted open by Seth / hair & look changes15:08 – Logan Paul & Dom / Austin Theory comparison / A-Town Down Under16:11 – CM Punk vs. Cody: who's the heel? Crowd confusion breakdown19:01 – Cody Rhodes concussed promo: best promo he's cut?35:12 – Sol Ruca debut, Adam Pierce being awesome, women's division depth38:44 – Only 4 matches in 2 hours 40 minutes / ad overload problem41:18 – WWE's ad format vs. the old in-show app / Netflix commercial issues43:33 – Wrestlers in every commercial / Cricket Wireless rant47:27 – Hulk Hogan Netflix documentary: worth watching?49:47 – Tony Hinchcliffe / Kill Tony / Netflix WWE deal tangent55:03 – Finn Balor vs. JD McDonough / Judgment Day fallout57:59 – OBA show up and say nothing / suit vs. ring gear debate1:03:58 – Gunther's storyline dead after Brock leaves / Bronson Breaker vs. Gunther1:08:07 – Jacob Fatu & Roman / crowd not reacting / Bloodline gang colors bit1:11:53 – Overall show rating: 4 matches, depleted crowd, Vegas departure1:14:55 – Outro / see you Thursday / shoutout to loyal daily listenersBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Anthony and Joe break down WrestleMania 42 Night Two in full — what delivered, what disappointed, and what it all means going forward. From Brock Lesnar's emotional farewell to OBA FMI, to the CM Punk vs. Roman Reigns main event, the guys give their honest takes on every match, the crowd, the booking logic (or lack thereof), streaming issues, celebrity involvement, and much more. Plus, live super chats and listener reactions throughout.

Wrestling Soup is BACK! Anthony, Joe Numbers E, and Jon Draper of Spitball Media break down WrestleMania 42 Night One LIVE from Las Vegas. From the chaos of iShowSpeed's wrestling debut, to Paige's emotional return, to the disaster of the main event — we cover every match, every moment, and every questionable booking decision. Plus, live Patreon chat reactions, grades for the show, and plenty of tangents you didn't ask for but absolutely needed.

Timestamps:0:00 – Intro / Media Overload Before WrestleMania0:35 – How's Your Media Intake? Everything Feels Hollow6:04 – Is WWE in Its Death Throes?8:44 – Roman Reigns & the Fading Star Problem3:12 – Dan Hausen Curses Stephen A. Smith4:25 – Dan Hausen & Stephen A. Smith Interaction22:21 – WWE Needs to Lean Into Millennial Nostalgia29:09 – WWE Needs More Athletes30:51 – TKO / UFC & WWE: A One-Sided Relationship32:40 – Floyd Mayweather vs. Jelly Roll33:40 – Paige Returns to WWE: Reaction & Discussion45:09 – Roman Says He'll Leave If He Loses1:00:06 – Night Two Card: Omos vs. Brock Lesnar – OBA FEMI HAS TO WIN1:05:33 – 6-Pack Ladder Match for the IC Title1:10:18 – Nia Jax vs. Jade Cargill / Women's Division Talk1:21:43 – Trick Williams vs. Sami Zayn1:24:27 – Dom Mysterio vs. Demon Finn Bálor1:30:03 – Roman Reigns vs. CM Punk – Main Event Preview1:38:43 – Outro / Get Out of HereBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Anthony and Joe kick off their WrestleMania 42 preview with a full breakdown of Night One — but first, they can't help diving into Roman Reigns' scathing video promo on CM Punk, Triple H's revisionist history tour, Nick Khan's bold WrestleMania 43 claims, and the looming question of WWE's Saudi Arabia deal as geopolitical tensions rise. Predictions, hot takes, and zero corporate slop.0:00 — Cold Open: Where was this Ronda Rousey 10 years ago?3:41 — Intro / WrestleMania 42 Breakdown Show0:33 — Roman Reigns Calls CM Punk a Mark6:20 — Roman vs. Punk: Two Very Different Career Paths23:24 — Triple H on Fan Criticism & "Thinking About Tomorrow"34:41 — "Philanthropy Is the Future of Marketing" — Stephanie McMahon47:17 — Nick Khan: WrestleMania 43 in Saudi Arabia Is Happening52:54 — WrestleMania 42 Night One Predictions Begin53:10 — Vision (Logan Paul & iShowSpeed) vs. USOs & LA Knight57:46 — Jacob Fatu vs. Drew McIntyre (Unsanctioned Match)58:58 — Stephanie vs. Liv Morgan (Women's World Championship)1:03:08 — AJ Lee vs. Becky Lynch (Women's IC Championship)1:05:01 — Fatal 4-Way Women's Tag Match (Bellas, Charlotte & Bliss, Bailey & Lyra, Lash & Naya)1:11:58 — Seth Rollins vs. Gunther1:16:20 — Cody Rhodes vs. Randy Orton (Undisputed WWE Championship)1:23:05 — Wrap-Up / Night Two Preview TomorrowBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Joe and Anthony break down the chaos surrounding WrestleMania as ticket sales continue to struggle, TKO takes heat from the fanbase, and Monday Night Raw delivers a go-home show that leaves a lot to be desired. From Vegas hotel mini-bar horror stories to the state of WWE's booking, no stone is left unturned. Plus full Raw recap including the Brock/OBA FEMI contract signing, CM Punk and Roman Reigns' go-home promo, Charlotte vs. Bird Girl, Stephanie Vaquer, Liv Morgan's music video, IShowSpeed, and more.0:00 – Intro / WrestleMania Season Chaos0:47 – WrestleMania Ticket Sales Are a Disaster1:49 – TKO's Saudi Arabia Problem3:30 – TKO vs. The Fanbase / Ticketmaster Squeeze6:17 – Would Saudi Fans Even Come to WrestleMania Right Now?7:49 – The Card in a Vacuum / WM Going Cheap8:35 – Roman's Promo Acknowledges the Failure9:03 – Live Ticket Numbers: 3,000+ Still Available11:24 – Vegas Hotel Mini-Bar Horror Story ($400 Gone)27:39 – Raw Recap Begins28:20 – Brock Lesnar / OBA FMI Contract Signing30:45 – OBA FMI's Breakout Promo32:23 – IYO SKY Overworked / Women's Division Thin33:21 – Nikki Bella Possibly Out of WrestleMania45:55 – IShowSpeed, Austin Theory & Logan Paul Segment57:19 – Charlotte vs. Bird Girl (Bayley)1:04:36 – Stephanie Vaquer Promo / Liv Morgan's Music Video1:16:09 – Usos & LA Knight vs. MFTs1:19:07 – IYO SKY vs. Kairi Sane / Jade Cargill Discussion1:25:51 – CM Punk & Roman Reigns Go-Home Promo1:29:24 – Outro / WrestleMania Coverage ScheduleBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Joe and Anthony kick off with a deep nostalgia dive into classic arcade games, Sega vs. Nintendo rivalries, and the evolution of gaming culture — from beach arcades and LAN parties to streamers and speedrunners. From there, the guys shift into wrestling talk: WWE's creative direction under TKO, the internet's reaction to the worst-rated SmackDown in history, the Jelly Roll/Pat McAfee rumor, the CM Punk vs. Roman Reigns buildup, and a full breakdown of the leaked WrestleMania 42 two-night card. Plus: Jade Cargill's PED controversy, Finn Bálor's future, and why WWE keeps putting celebrities over logic.Timestamps:0:00 — Intro & Chucky Doll bit1:02 — One Piece, live action anime, and Michael Bay's Transformers crime4:43 — Sega history: Alex the Kid, Sonic, Altered Beast & Streets of Rage6:42 — The return of arcades & the "third space" crisis18:15 — Watching streamers & gaming content creators19:53 — Chris Chan, internet culture & the cancel cycle20:57 — Pat McAfee's WWE debut reaction & booking confusion33:47 — Jelly Roll reportedly added to the McAfee/Orton feud36:36 — Show intro (better late than never) + responding to comments43:16 — Worst SmackDown ever? YouTube dislikes & fan backlash53:07 — WrestleMania 42 Night One card breakdown1:08:04 — WrestleMania 42 Night Two card breakdown1:43:10 — CM Punk vs. Roman Reigns preview & final thoughtsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

0:00 — Intro / Io Sky & WWE's censorship problem1:55 — Tiffany Stratton, Maxine, and chasing the Mandy Rose dragon4:59 — WWE's Puritan censorship on Netflix & the self-inflicted PG problem11:02 — CM Punk's Raw promo: breaking down what worked and why Roman can't respond15:27 — The Pat McAfee SmackDown segment: death rattle wrestling16:55 — Roman Reigns' limitations: prepped but can't improv20:46 — What Roman SHOULD say to get real heat on Punk29:14 — Cody Rhodes crowd backlash & the Randy Orton/Pat McAfee pairing problem37:17 — Why Cody needs to turn heel & the Stephanie McMahon missed opportunity44:29 — Gunther being criminally misused — the Larry Bird analogy51:28 — TKO inserting themselves into creative? Celebrity overload in WWE55:41 — The celebrity problem: Logan Paul, IShowSpeed, Tom Brady & more1:05:52 — AJ Lee's return: is this the right version of her character?1:09:00 — Kairi Sane & Asuka/Damage CTRL situation1:15:24 — Oba Femi vs. Brock Lesnar: WrestleMania's real main event?1:18:20 — The Goldberg/Brock problem — will they screw up Oba's moment?1:25:47 — Gunther interference theory: Brock puts over two guys on the way out?1:28:35 — How does Seth Rollins ruin the Brock/Oba match?1:32:20 — Pat McAfee's SmackDown ratings bomb & the Ari Emanuel/Stallone comparison1:35:47 — Wrap-up / Alberto Del Rio arrested againBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

0:00 — Intro / The Egg Bit1:55 — Breaking Down the New Janelle Grant Filing6:05 — The May 2020 Incident (COVID Timeline)21:59 — Brock Lesnar's Alleged Involvement Begins25:38 — The Beating & What Vince Did to "Prepare" Her32:33 — WrestleMania 3 Weeks Out — What a Mess44:57 — "Hi, This Is Polish Joe" — The Texts Begin1:00:46 — The Suicide Attempt & Vince's Response1:09:21 — Chris Jericho Returns to AEW1:19:08 — John Cena Called Back to Host WrestleManiaBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Joe and Anthony break down a chaotic Monday Night RAW, tearing into WWE's last-minute WrestleMania card-building in Madison Square Garden. From Dan Hausen's "merch goblin" gimmick to the rushed Oba Femi vs. Brock Lesnar build. They also dig into the Seth Rollins/Gunther pairing that came out of nowhere, Cody Rhodes getting embarrassed by Stephanie McMahon, CM Punk vs. Roman Reigns feeling backwards, and the overcrowded celebrity situation at WrestleMania. Plus, a tribute mention for Kevin Castle.0:00 – Intro & WWE Building the WrestleMania Card Last Minute0:54 – Is There a Reason WWE Holds the Card Back?1:52 – Dan Hausen / The Merch Goblin Debate5:01 – Dan Hausen as a Meme Wrestler & Internet Crossover5:58 – WWE Signs Ricky Starks & Ethan Page13:31 – MSG Raw Recap: Half the Mania Card Announced in One Night14:32 – The Names on the Ring Canvas Stunt17:50 – John Cena as WrestleMania Host — Desperation or Strategy?20:16 – Seth Rollins vs. Gunther: Where Did This Come From?42:17 – Oba Femi vs. Brock Lesnar: Rushed & Poorly Built43:30 – "Obama vs. Barack Lesnar" & OBA's Potential Wasted48:34 – Penta & Kofi / The WrestleMania Ladder Match Clusterfuck49:27 – The Vision vs. The Usos & LA Knight Getting Buried Again56:06 – Jelly Roll at WrestleMania: Does It Make Sense?56:23 – Bad Bunny vs. Celebrity Wrestlers: Who Actually Works?58:40 – The Celebrity Royal Rumble Idea1:04:18 – Cody Rhodes Segment: Stephanie McMahon Slaps & Embarrasses Him1:12:14 – Finn Bálor vs. Dominic Mysterio Promo1:15:31 – CM Punk vs. Roman Reigns: Who's the Heel Here?1:17:29 – Roman Should Be Younger to Sell the "Old Man Punk" Angle1:20:39 – Raquel Rodriguez & Eo Sky Scare Moment1:25:43 – Outro & Kevin Castle Memorial Tribute Mention @iamjondraperBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Anthony and Joe kick off with a wild story about a guy who returned an anime figure to eBay — covered in bodily fluids — and claimed "item not as described." From there the boys riff on WWE's $11,500 pasta dinner package at Clash in Italy, the growing list of AEW women who haven't wrestled in years, Ricochet's social media drama, the Bella Army's toxic fandom response, Willow Nightingale's thoughtful take on fan harassment, foot fetish culture, the Roman Reigns/CM Punk/Jay Uso mess on Raw, Seth Rollins and Becky Lynch launching a coffee brand, TKO's private equity stranglehold on WWE storytelling, and much more.0:00 – Intro: The eBay anime figure return story6:39 – WWE/MMA crossover: Ronda Rousey & CTE jokes11:40 – WWE Clash in Italy: The $11,500 pasta package14:21 – Which WWE Superstar is making the pasta?26:40 – Breaking angel hair pasta as a heel spot28:44 – Grayson Waller's match on Raw29:40 – TKO's quiet releases & roster bloat30:59 – Motor City Machine Guns wasted in WWE34:23 – Oba Flair references Joe Rogan & Elon Musk37:21 – Conspiracy theories used to be "cute"38:32 – The "jizz" promo on Monday Night Raw39:57 – The Bella Army responds to "most toxic fanbase" list42:49 – Willow Nightingale on fan harassment & AEW security44:33 – Tiffany Stratton's foot guys & the foot fetish community46:48 – Pitch for a foot-fetish slasher movie: "This Little Piggy"55:00 – Willow's thoughtful quote & wasted potential in AEW57:14 – AEW women who haven't wrestled in years (Charlotte Renegade, Ruby Soho, etc.)1:02:43 – WWE as private equity: nobody cares about storytelling1:05:30 – JTG: the all-time king of doing nothing on a contract1:06:37 – Chris Hero told Ricochet to delete the tweet1:11:30 – The Usos promo mess on Raw: who's a heel?1:14:56 – Theory: Jay Uso has a drinking problem storyline1:16:50 – Roman Reigns cheered despite being a clear villain1:17:59 – Gunther has no WrestleMania opponent1:18:39 – Seth & Becky launch "Ammo Coffee"1:20:43 – Roman & CM Punk WrestleMania build: Seth interference prediction1:23:11 – WWE creative isn't bad — they just don't give a f***1:29:59 – AEW as a bottomless money pit vs. WWE as a dried-up sponge1:37:44 – Roman won't insult Punk's dog to protect his merch sales1:39:17 – Outro & Patreon plugBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

0:00 – Cold open / Anthony & Joe react to Dave Core; Johnny Ace autograph talk13:57 – Official show intro: "Wrestling Soup, I'm Anthony Thomas, he's Joe Numbers"14:10 – WrestleMania season talk16:12 – AEW's latest PPV: "best PPV ever" discourse & death match wrestling debate21:25 – WWE Night of Champions in Saudi Arabia — should it happen amid Middle East conflict?36:59 – **Main Topic: Ricochet's Twitter controversy** — mocking a fan's MS diagnosis40:30 – What prompted Ricochet's tweets? Full breakdown of the situation56:29 – AEW's silence on Ricochet;57:20 – Sean Ross Sapp defends Ricochet;1:17:28 – **Ted DiBiase Jr. fraud case** — judge denies motion to dismiss; $3M stolen from Mississippi charities1:25:13 – Wrap-up / outro; Gunther has no WrestleMania plans; tomorrow's Frank & Gus episode previewBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

0:00 — Intro: Joe getting into the DanHausen thing; the show's chaos0:58 — WrestleMania build losing steam; San Antonio crowd praise2:15 — Randy Orton as the potential savior of WrestleMania's main event2:50 — Stone Cold Steve Austin's no-show on 3:16 Day in Texas5:34 — WWE's 31.6% ticket discount; bad sign for WrestleMania7:07 — Las Vegas WrestleMania costs; hotel prices skyrocketing8:18 — WWE slot machines; Whitney Houston jackpot story10:59 — Road Dogg returning to the ring? OVW referee injury incident14:43 — RAW recap begins; San Antonio crowd was the best of 202615:50 — Seth Rollins opener: henchmen, Brock Lesnar, Oba Femi breakdown19:15 — Oba Femi vs. Brock: rushed booking; should've been saved for SummerSlam20:53 — WWE's impatience problem: the "cookie" analogy22:11 — WWE's new creative director from CBS/NHL background26:52 — Oba Femi's Goldberg comparisons; concern about misuse27:59 — Natty Neidhart vs. Maxine Dupree feud falling apart31:24 — Becky Lynch vs. AJ Lee; Bailey discussion35:00 — WWE's lack of blowoff matches; feuds never ending40:23 — Roman Reigns' terrible promo vs. CM Punk; "old" insult from a 40-year-old43:52 — Roman/Punk feud has no story; call for someone to turn heel47:00 — "Make someone a heel, you cowards"; Punk as potential heel49:16 — Roman's dentures; teeth jokes54:11 — Oba Femi possibly tearing up after powerbombing Brock55:37 — Wrapping up RAW; good matches (Stephanie Vaquer vs. Raquel); Latino appreciation night59:23 — Ricochet segment; why making fun of him gets big views1:03:05 — Sign-off; Patreon plug; see you ThursdayBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

2:00 – State debates: Oklahoma, Florida, Pennsylvania, Arizona, Idaho8:00 – Mortgage situation & refusing to give up that 2% COVID rate12:00 – BlackRock's rent-to-give-back communities / modern sharecropping16:00 – Wrestling Soup intro17:00 – Sol Ruca on Stephanie McMahon's podcast; toxic masculinity & male vulnerability in wrestling24:00 – WWE's boomer creative problem & Kirsten's promotion to Raw writer30:00 – Ricky Saints' concert segment pulled from YouTube (w/ clip)37:00 – Zoe Stark promo comparison; conspiracy theory: creative sabotaging indie darlings43:00 – WWE's financial machine vs. creative bankruptcy; WrestleMania apathy50:00 – Nostalgia as WWE's only product (Blink-182 analogy, Reese's cups lawsuit)55:00 – UFC vs. WWE audience divide; WWE trying to be Applebee's1:02:00 – WrestleMania card breakdown: Dominik, Finn Bálor demon, Grande Americano1:07:00 – WrestleMania Vegas attendance concerns; Wrestlecon ticket sales tanking1:12:00 – WWE casino slot machine "Road to Gold" announced1:18:00 – Idea for a "Why Did They Get Fired?" wrestling card game1:22:00 – Dan Hausen debut/interview clip; WWE setting him up to fail1:31:00 – Cody Rhodes losing momentum; Jar Jar Binks / Star Wars prequels analogy1:37:00 – Sam Roberts' transformation; Joe Rogan's moral drift1:42:00 – Dave Chappelle & Bill Cosby extended riff1:29:00 – Sign-off / Patreon & Spitball Media shoutoutBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

0:00 - Intro & Seth Rollins' Ninja Army Discussion6:30 - Seth's Henchmen: Power Rangers or Wrestling School Students?13:00 - Logan Paul vs Austin Theory Storyline29:00 - CM Punk Confronts The Usos42:00 - Dead Uncle Drama & Family Feuds57:00 - Seth Rollins Figure Eight Choreography1:18:00 - Judgment Day Turns on Finn Bálor1:29:00 - Oba Femi vs Rusev Match1:42:00 - Dan Hausen T-Shirt Sales Segment1:57:00 - Raw Women's Gauntlet Match2:10 - Penta vs El Grande Americano2:23:00 - WrestleMania Build Criticism2:42:00 - Rusty Loads Country Character Pitch2:58:00 - Wrap Up & Final ThoughtsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

LA Knight's elimination chamber slip and Logan Paul's comments about dangerous ring conditionsWWE uses cheap screen printing instead of proper dye sublimation to save $81K/yearRing canvas ads generate $14-36 million annuallyOne wrestler injury costs more than the entire yearly savingsWWE monetizes every canvas piece: $29-150 plaques, $400 name printing, charity donations, Panini trading cards10% of one canvas generates $288K in merchandise aloneESPN partnership struggles and WrestleMania 42 ticket concerns0:00 - Intro & Road Dog's WWE Departure1:31 - WWE Creative Shakeup: Alexandra Williams Joins Raw6:04 - Zoe Hines Signs with WWE (RFK Jr.'s Niece)8:46 - WWE's Nepo Baby Problem Continues17:25 - LA Knight & Logan Paul Expose Slippery Ring Canvas Issue18:08 - The Ring Canvas Controversy Explained19:12 - Dye Sublimation vs Screen Printing: The Safety Issue20:25 - WWE Makes $10-36 Million Annually from Ring Ads23:36 - The Math: WWE Saves Only $81K/Year with Cheap Canvas25:50 - One Injury Costs $1-3 Million - The Dangerous Gamble28:51 - WWE Sells Used Canvases for Hundreds of Thousands31:06 - The $400 Name-on-Canvas Program at MSG34:43 - Fanatics Partnership: Maximum Exploitation38:38 - 10% of One Canvas = $288K in Merch Revenue42:15 - Charity Donations: Another Revenue Stream45:31 - Panini Trading Cards: Even Scraps Make Money48:54 - ESPN/WWE Partnership Struggles & WrestleMania 42 Concerns52:37 - Vegas Venue Broadcast Restrictions Backfire1:02:05 - Dan Hausen Merch Sales Surprise WWE1:09:16 - Tom Brady WrestleMania Rumors1:18:25 - WWE's Priorities Problem & Corporate Greed DiscussionBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

• The Vision falling apart & Seth Rollins' new role• CM Punk vs Roman Reigns WrestleMania build• Rhea Ripley's breakup with Iyo Sky• Jade Cargill's backstage heat & Twitter drama• Gunther vs Dragon Lee - great match, wrong timing• Dan Hausen's WWE debut & mixed reactions• Penta wins North American Championship!• WrestleMania card concerns0:00 - Intro / Demolition Theme Parody2:43 - Raw Recap Begins / WrestleMania Road Concerns5:30 - The Vision Falls Apart / Seth Rollins Turn11:02 - Roman Reigns vs CM Punk Promo Analysis25:58 - Restaurant Analogies (Denny's vs Bob Evans)38:58 - Logan Paul & Austin Theory's Future50:15 - Gunther vs Dragon Lee Discussion58:28 - Liv Morgan's Problematic Promo1:03:00 - Rhea Ripley & Iyo Sky Split Up1:09:38 - Jade Cargill vs Rhea Twitter Drama1:16:38 - Kyrie Sane & Asuka Segment Issues1:23:30 - AJ Lee Promo Problems1:27:43 - El Grande Americano vs Los Lotharios1:30:23 - Dan Hausen WWE Debut Review1:33:48 - Judgment Day & JD McDonagh1:36:50 - Oscar & Kyrie Domestic Abuse Angle1:39:30 - Obba Femi vs Rusev Setup1:42:09 - Obba Femi Meet & Greet Controversy1:46:41 - Penta vs Dominic Mysterio - Match of the Night!1:32:40 - Final Thoughts & Wrap UpBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

0:00 - Intro & Snake Song0:58 - Show Begins: Initial Thoughts on Elimination Chamber1:32 - Women's Elimination Chamber Match Discussion3:46 - Tiffany Stratton Problems & Kiana James Debut7:40 - Raquel Rodriguez & Rhea Ripley's Size Discussion13:10 - Champion Becky Lynch vs. AJ Lee (Women's IC Title)22:42 - AJ Lee's Legacy & Career Retrospective31:06 - CM Punk vs. Finn Bálor (World Heavyweight Championship)38:47 - Judgment Day's Future & Storyline Direction46:20 - Dan Hausen's Box Debut Disaster54:26 - Masked Man Reveal: Seth Rollins Returns59:36 - Men's Elimination Chamber Match1:03:32 - LA Knight's Botch & Push Discussion1:11:26 - Logan Paul as a Heel & Celebrity Wrestlers1:14:22 - Randy Orton Wins & WrestleMania Implications1:23:20 - Overall Show Grades & Final ThoughtsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Join Joe and Anthony for another unfiltered episode of Wrestling Soup! This week we're diving into:

0:00 Intro - Seth Rollins Curse & CM Punk Promo1:05 Vince McMahon Saudi Buyback Rumors5:45 Price Gouging & WrestleMania Tickets9:55 Bronson Reed Injury & Learning Limitations15:31 The Vision Falling Apart22:30 Brock Lesnar Emergency Break Glass29:00 Atlanta Crowd Dead All Night38:25 AJ Styles Tribute Show & Missing Kurt Angle48:25 Jade Cargill Standing Around1:00:45 Prices vs Quality Debate1:18:45 The Last WrestleMania Theory1:24:15 WrestleMania 18 Ticket Prices Comparison1:29:05 Too Big To Fail ProblemBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Join Anthony and Joe for another episode of Frank and Gus! In this wide-ranging conversation, we discuss Chicago weather, real estate nightmares in Gary Indiana, the Bears stadium controversy, Boston development projects, and plenty of wrestling talk including WWE's creative direction, Tony Khan speculation, and listener voicemails.Timestamps:0:00 - Intro & Weather Talk5:30 - Gary, Indiana Real Estate Discussion15:45 - Bears Stadium Controversy22:30 - Boston Development & MLS Stadium32:15 - Illinois Ghost Towns & Infrastructure40:20 - Maine Travel Plans45:50 - Listener Voicemail: VPN & Original Content50:10 - Listener Voicemail: Brett the Hitman on Barbecues54:20 - Listener Voicemail: Recent Movies58:35 - Listener Voicemail: Vacuum Update Request1:00:45 - Listener Voicemail: Lyra Valkyria Storyline Ideas1:04:30 - Listener Voicemail: Enzo Amore Return Discussion1:08:15 - Listener Voicemail: WrestleMania Season Concerns1:12:40 - WWE Creative & Scripted Promos Discussion1:25:30 - College Athletes & NIL Program1:32:50 - The Miz Success Story1:37:20 - Wrap Up & Commercials TalkBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Joe and Anthony discuss wrestling news, celebrity culture, and random tangents in this wide-ranging conversation. Topics include Mercedes Mone's controversial fan subscription service, WWE's new wrestler trademarks, bad bunny's WrestleMania appearance, chain restaurant quality decline, baby naming trends, and a domestic violence case involving wrestler El ReAro and Stephanie Faher. The hosts also dive into Logan Paul's Pokemon card controversy, regional differences in fast food quality, and AEW's handling of the Brody Lee tribute merchandise.Timestamps0:00 - Intro banter and Mercedes Monet discussion1:14 - Mercedes Monet $100/month text service controversy2:54 - Wendy's closing 360 locations4:42 - Chain restaurant quality decline (Applebee's, Chili's, Five Guys)9:14 - Wahlburgers and Fuddruckers discussion12:14 - Ted movie and TV series15:50 - Boston references and Mercedes Monet's accent20:23 - Royce Keys Royal Rumble "secret"24:30 - Bad Bunny WrestleMania 42 appearance29:31 - Logan Paul Pokemon card controversy33:30 - Pokemon name discussion38:51 - WWE new trademarks: Dorian Van Dix and Tristan Angels40:55 - Baby naming trends discussion52:38 - El Rero domestic violence case and Stephanie Faher64:30 - WWE European tour and Saudi Arabia show81:17 - Seth Rollins press tour and Shawn Michaels comparison90:25 - AEW Brody Lee shirt controversy and wrap-upBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Join Anthony and Joe on Wrestling Soup as they break down the latest WWE Raw episode! This week we're diving into:

2:00 - WrestleMania Ticket Pricing Controversy Analysis of WWE's expensive WrestleMania packages in Las Vegas5:00 - Vegas Travel Costs & Accessibility Issues How expensive flights and accommodations are affecting WrestleMania attendance10:00 - WWE's Disconnect with Fan Base Discussion of WWE being out of touch with their core audience's economic reality15:00 - Physical Media Comeback DVDs, records, and CDs returning due to streaming concerns20:00 - WrestleMania Package Breakdown Detailed look at the $37,500 premium packages and what they include30:00 - Economic Reality Check Comparing ticket prices to actual fan income levels and affordability38:00 - The 2025 Dave Meltzer Wrestling Awards39:00 - Worst Gimmicks Top 5 including Heel John Cena (#1), Wyatt Sicks (#2), House of Torture (#3)42:00 - Toni Storm takes both worst (#4) and best (#1) gimmick awards43:00 - Best Booker of the Year Tony Khan wins despite AEW's struggles46:00 - Worst Promotion WWE takes the top spot48:00 - Best Major Wrestling Shows All top 5 are AEW shows (All In, Double or Nothing, Revolution, All Out, Stardom)50:00 - Worst TV Shows WWE NXT (#1), SmackDown (#2), with AEW Collision making the list at #558:00 - Best Non-Wrestlers Don Callis (#1), Paul Heyman (#2), discussion of manager roles60:00 - Worst TV Announcers Booker T (#1), Pat McAfee (#2), debate about commentary styles73:00 - Best TV Announcers Bryan Danielson (#1), Walker Stewart (#2), discussion of commentary quality85:00 - Most Overrated Wrestlers Jay Uso (#1), CM Punk (#2), Jade Cargill (#3)88:00 - Most Underrated Wrestlers Beast Mortos (#1), Chevon Evans (#2)90:00 - Best Flying Wrestler Mascara Dorada (#1), Will Ospreay (#2)91:00 - Best Technical Wrestler Zack Sabre Jr. (#1), discussion of technical wrestling standards95:00 - Best Brawler John Moxley & Hangman Adam Page tie for top spots98:00 - Wrestler of the Year (Lou Thesz Award) Mistico (#1), John Moxley (#3), Saya Kamitani (#4), John Cena (#5)99:30 - Closing RemarksBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Timestamps:0:27 - AEW News: Ishii & Orange Cassidy/Bad Bunny1:52 - Masked Man Speculation & Paul Heyman's Expectations9:30 - Vince Russo's Take on Stephanie Vaquer Speaking Spanish12:02 - Super Bowl Halftime Show & Language in Wrestling20:30 - Generational Gaps & Randy Orton's Evolution27:30 - Undertaker at Bad Bunny's Concert & Presidential Wrestling Fantasy Booking32:55 - AEW's "Abolish ICE" Shirt Controversy & Brody King50:50 - Mercedes Moné's Vacation & Stem Cell Treatment54:30 - Zack Sabre Jr. Coming Out & Daniel Garcia Roasting59:50 - Tomaso Ciampa Joins AEW & Loses Title 8 Days Later1:14:20 - Seth Rollins & Becky Lynch's Coffee Business1:22:30 - Undertaker as a Latino & Wrap-UpThis 85-minute episode covers everything from AEW's latest signings to wild hypothetical wrestling scenarios. Don't miss the hilarious presidential wrestling faction discussion and the deep dive into why wrestlers are launching coffee brands!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

0:00 - Intro & WrestleMania Season Talk1:30 - Roman Reigns vs CM Punk Promo Discussion Begins6:03 - Reading Fan Feedback & Criticism15:30 - Defending Their Take on the Promo25:00 - Why Wrestling Fans Are Divided30:00 - CM Punk on Wrestling Fans & Powerhouse Hobbs Name Change42:00 - Ricochet's WWE Legacy Comments70:00 - Ricochet vs Jimmy Cornette Exchange85:00 - WWE vs Indies: The Legacy Debate95:00 - Wrap UpThis episode features the hosts standing by their opinions despite heavy criticism, discussing the state of wrestling fandom, and debating what really matters - legacy or financial success.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Anthony and Joe tear apart the Roman Reigns vs CM Punk promo that Bleacher Report somehow gave an A+ rating. We break down why this WrestleMania build is lazy, tropey garbage, plus our takes on Monday Night Raw including Maxine's botched push, El Grande Americano's potential, and why the Bellas need to go away.WHAT WE COVER:Roman's "I hate you" promo is embarrassingly badThe 12-year-old Colt Cabana podcast grudge is patheticMaxine is being ruined in real-timeEl Grande Americano could actually be fun (fantasy booking included)Women's division is a babyface/heel disasterStephanie vs Raquel street fight reviewTIMESTAMPS:0:00 - Intro: Let's Watch This Trainwreck0:28 - CM Punk Comes Out Looking Bored3:47 - "You're Talking Crazy" - Roman's Vocal Crutch11:00 - "I Learned From You" (Scooby-Doo Voice)18:18 - "I HATE YOU" x100019:54 - Breakup Letter Parody (Better Than Roman's Promo)24:49 - Why This Promo Sucks: Full Breakdown28:45 - Better Storyline Ideas (Jay Uso Angle)36:00 - Monday Night Raw Recap Begins40:45 - Chad Gable Fantasy Booking45:15 - Manjaro The Mighty Midget (We Lost It)46:15 - Maxine Is Getting Ruined49:12 - They Blew Her Entire Year-Long Story50:27 - Oba Femi Murders War Raiders51:55 - Gunther Promo & Dragon Lee Setup59:59 - Women's Division: Who's Actually Over?1:01:10 - Dominick's Two Types: Kill Me or Pixie Girl1:13:10 - Stephanie vs Raquel Street Fight Review1:17:43 - Finn Bálor vs CM Punk Setup1:18:40 - Mr. Iguana Missed Opportunity1:19:40 - Bleacher Report's A+ Rating (ARE YOU KIDDING?)1:23:51 - Roman Shits On Drew & SmackDown1:27:08 - Outro & Where To Find UsSUPPORT THE SHOW:Patreon: patreon.com/wrestlingsoupYouTube: Wrestling SoupWWE #RomanReigns #CMPunk #WrestleMania #MondayNightRaw #RoyalRumble #WrestlingPodcastBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Women's Royal Rumble (0:00 - 19:30)Liv Morgan won; strong performances from Sol Ruca, Lash Legend, Ria RipleyControversial dress code for female wrestlers discussedBellas got surprisingly strong reactionsAJ Styles vs. Gunther (22:30 - 25:30)Career match; Gunther won via submissionAJ's ambiguous ending sparked retirement speculationSammy Zayn vs. Drew McIntyre (33:00 - 35:30)Drew won clean; hosts criticized predictable heel victoriesMen's Royal Rumble (40:30 - 1:14:00)Roman Reigns won (predictable outcome)Mystery hooded figure eliminated Bron BreakerDebuts: Royce Keys, RicochetFinal Four: Roman, Orton, Gunther, LA KnightOverall Grade: CPraised: AJ/Gunther match, fresh talent showcasedCriticized: Predictable booking, heels won 3/4 matches, lack of babyface momentsHosts frustrated with creative direction and Roman Reigns winning yet another Royal Rumble.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Royal Rumble 2025 pre-show discussion between Anthony and Joe, covering WWE's "Unreal" Season 2 documentary and the upcoming Saudi Arabia event.Main Topics:WWE Unreal Season 2 Criticism0:00-3:00Triple H's creative leadership criticizedR-Truth's poor treatment highlightedQuestions about Triple H's competenceSaudi Arabia Shows39:30-44:30WWE's relationship with Saudi Arabia criticizedShows becoming purely transactionalConcerns about company valuesRoyal Rumble Predictions61:00-71:00AJ Styles vs GuntherCareer matchDrew vs SamiWorld titleWomen's RumbleBecky or Bianca predictedMen's RumbleRoman or Seth predictedKey Moments:1:40-2:10 Triple H creative meeting20:00-22:00 Naomi/Sasha discussion48:00-50:00 Saudi cultural issues78:00-80:00 Match predictionsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

0:00-3:00 - Package delivery complaints, weather discussion, snow in various states3:00-8:00 - Cold vs hot weather preferences, people calling out for minimal snow, truck/four-wheel drive jokes8:00-12:00 - WWE Evolution PLE ratings, women's wrestling viewership, Cardi B and Patriots12:00-18:00 - Royal Rumble buildup criticism, Women's Rumble in Saudi Arabia, Eo in Puerto Rico18:00-26:00 - Royal Rumble entrants, new Saudi wrestler Tariq, Seth Rollins return speculation26:00-36:00 - Wrestler retirements, AJ Styles swan song, Raw recap begins, brand vs brand criticism36:00-46:00 - Corporate warfare comedy, six-woman tag match, Raquel Rodriguez character discussion46:00-56:00 - Raquel "pretty hunter" gimmick idea, Liv Morgan development, Judgment Day dynamics56:00-66:00 - Saudi Arabia jokes, Tony Khan burner account discussion, wealth vs Twitter behavior66:00-76:00 - AEW emotional attachment theory, internet fame and mental health, number one contenders match76:00-83:10 - CM Punk vs AJ Styles main event, Finn Balor interference, CM Punk's babyface run criticism, wrap-upBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Wrestling Soup's Saturday Night's Main Event XLII Post-Show! Anthony Thomas and Joe Numbers break down all the action from Montreal including the Cody/Fatu brawl, women's tag team action, Nakamura vs AJ Styles, and the Fatal Four-Way main event.Timestamps: 3:50 - Royal Rumble Predictions & Surprises 6:17 - The Rock Rumble Talk 13:04 - Saturday Night's Main Event Begins 13:07 - Cody vs Fatu Brawl Breakdown 17:56 - Women's Tag Match Review (Liv/Roxy vs Ripley/Iyo) 24:19 - Nakamura vs AJ Styles Analysis 31:51 - Fatal Four-Way Main Event (Zayn/Priest/Orton/Williams) 43:10 - Final Thoughts & Wrap-UpBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Join Joe and Anthony for another episode of Wrestling Soup as they dive deep into WWE's Unreal series on Netflix, discussing the controversial R-Truth situation, Triple H's creative decisions, and the state of modern wrestling. Plus: AEW's struggles, Hangman Page's latest controversy, and why JCW might be more entertaining than you think.

Join Joe and Anthony for their latest wrestling discussion covering WWE Raw, Saturday Night's Main Event preview, and industry news. Topics include Gunther vs AJ Styles career match, Becky Lynch's retirement announcement, the Trey Miguel controversy, and why JCW might be wrestling's unexpected hero in 2026. Plus: NFL playoff talk, Saudi Arabia stadium concerns, and hot takes on creative direction.Timestamps0:00 - Intro & Show Overview1:56 - Gunther vs AJ Styles Career Match Discussion7:30 - Becky Lynch vs Maxine Dupri & Natalya Turn13:00 - Vision vs Mysterio/Penta & Adam Pierce Storyline15:00 - Women's Tag Team Division Discussion21:30 - Evans Injury & OBA Femi Debut27:00 - Finn Balor vs CM Punk Main Event29:00 - NFL Playoffs Talk (Patriots, Bears, Steelers)34:30 - Becky Lynch Retirement Announcement41:30 - Bruce Prichard's Pat McAfee vs Gunther Pitch45:00 - JCW & Vince Russo Discussion50:30 - State of Wrestling Industry Analysis54:00 - Saturday Night's Main Event Preview56:00 - Saudi Arabia Royal Rumble Stadium Concerns60:30 - Randy Orton Saudi Arabia Press Tour65:30 - Trey Miguel Firing Controversy (Full Breakdown)78:30 - David Starr Response & MJF Connection TheoryBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

0:30 - Epilepsy & Seizures Tangent2:30 - Westboro Baptist Church & Religious Extremism11:50 - Wrestling News: Roster Moves & Returns14:00 - Powerhouse Hobbs Leaves AEW for WWE24:00 - Tony Khan's Creative Control Comments26:50 - AEW vs WWE Perception & Talent Comparison33:00 - Tiffany Stratton's Return from Injury37:50 - Character Development Issues in WWE45:30 - Baron Corbin's Bizarre AEW Creative Pitch (Don Callis Family Biker Gang)51:30 - NWO Comparisons & Faction Building54:10 - R-Truth Retirement Plans56:30 - CM Punk Retiring at 5058:30 - WWE's Aging Roster & Future Stars1:02:00 - Cody Rhodes & Fan Interaction After Shows1:14:40 - Rikishi Complains About WWE Ticket Prices1:18:30 - Legends Contract & Complimentary Tickets1:19:00 - CJ Perry (Lana) Returns to Wrestling & Stand-Up Comedy1:28:50 - Nikki Bella's Drinking Habits Controversy1:31:20 - Wrap-Up & Patreon PlugBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

WWE RAW GERMANY RECAP0:00 - Intro & international tour discussion4:18 - Women's tag championship setup, Rio & Rio name15:12 - El Grande Americano vs Jovan Evans27:25 - Liv & Roxy confront Finn Bálor30:35 - CM Punk/Finn Bálor Belfast match announced43:58 - Women's triple threat tag match50:17 - Stephanie Vaquer attacked by Raquel Rodriguez56:00 - Jay Uso & Alpha Academy segment1:04:05 - AJ Styles vs Gunther (confusing finish)1:10:09 - Bronson Reed & Theory vs Dragon Lee & Penta1:13:45 - Adam Pierce vs Bron Breaker confrontation (SEGMENT OF THE NIGHT)1:33:56 - Final thoughts & show reviewBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

0:00 - Intro0:26 - CM Punk's Republican Baby Raper Comments Controversy1:38 - ICE Shooting Incident Discussion3:49 - Political Climate & Extremism12:24 - Ariana Grande & Wicked Discourse17:32 - Jake "Something" Doyle Joins AEW30:31 - WWE Roster Call-Ups: Grace, Williams, Legend, Evans32:40 - Jade Cargill: The Unintentional Vader39:10 - WrestleMania 2026 Predictions41:10 - CM Punk Directing Movies & VHS Series43:00 - Hollywood's Creativity Crisis & Streaming vs Theaters52:07 - Netflix vs Paramount: Warner Bros $82B Acquisition Battle64:00 - TNA Lands AMC Deal Thanks to WWE Partnership73:00 - Tony Schiavani's WWE Hall of Fame Comments81:33 - Chris Jericho to TNA Rumors & Mohawk Jericho88:20 - Outro & PlugBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

[0:00-0:20] Opening banter - Joe making Jade Cargill references, Anthony catching up on wrestling news[2:00-2:30] Introduction and show setup - Discussing Monday Night Raw's quality issues[2:30-4:00] Raw show structure critique - Too many women's matches, lack of coherent booking, disappointing for live Brooklyn audience[4:30-5:30] Kabuki Warriors vs Rhea/IyO Sky tag match - Best match of the night, good action but questionable placement as opener[9:30-13:00] Asuka/Shayna Basler Twitter incident - Cultural misunderstanding about toughness compliment[14:30-15:30] Stranger Things promotion - Just a van, no actors, completely underwhelming tie-in[22:30-25:00] Gunther/AJ Styles segment - Gunther looking weak, poor booking decisions[29:00-32:00] Maxxine vs Becky Lynch - Too much time given, Maxine too green for featured spot[21:30-22:30] Stephanie Vaquer injury angle - Rushed off TV despite being over with fans[33:00-35:00] Paul Heyman group criticism - None ready for main event spots except possibly Drew McIntyre[34:00-35:00] Logan Paul/Austin Theory promo - Disconnected and ineffective[38:00-44:00] CM Punk main event - Stumbling through promos, match with Bron Breaker was sloppy[40:00-48:00] Bron Breakker concerns - Too green, dangerous spots, needs shorter matches[49:00-52:00] Liv Morgan return - Poorly positioned after multiple women's matches, crowd was dead[54:00-58:00] Judgment Day storyline - Falling apart, no clear direction for members[58:00-1:05:00] Overall show critique - Poorly structured, felt like contractually obligated content[1:05:00-1:08:00] International shows vs US shows - Better matches given to international audiences[1:05:00-1:07:00] Saudi Arabia performance center discussion[1:09:00-1:13:00] Commercial breaks - Excessive ads on Netflix, VPN workarounds[1:13:00-end] Wrap-up and closing thoughtsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Joe and Anthony discuss the current state of wrestling, focusing on WWE's use of old footage, the Netflix deal, and the value of nostalgia content. They critique modern wrestling's creative direction, the risks wrestlers take for fan approval, and the business of monetizing archival material. The conversation also touches on personalities like Chris Jericho, Mr. Beast, and the challenges wrestlers face after retirement, ending with commentary on the cyclical nature of wrestling trends and media.0:00 – WWE vault, nostalgia, and old footage4:00 – Classic wrestling humor, Andre the Giant stories15:00 – Humanizing wrestlers, behind-the-scenes moments40:00 – Modern wrestling risks, fan influence, dangerous spots1:00:00 – WWE's business model, YouTube/Netflix monetization1:15:00 – WWE creative team, bureaucracy, and lack of vision1:25:00 – Chris Jericho rumors, nostalgia pops, closing thoughts1:29:35 – EndBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Anthony Missionary Thomas breaks down the latest Monday Night Raw from the Kia Center in Orlando! With Joe on vacation, Missionary goes solo to deliver his unfiltered thoughts on the new streaming format, wild backstage drama, and all the in-ring action.In this episode:The Vision's new member and Paul Heyman's mic workCM Punk's return and his face-off with Bron BreakerThe Vince McMahon retirement lawsuit and behind-the-scenes revelationsWomen's division shakeups and Nikki BellaGunther's dominance, R-Truth's comedy, and the USOs' tag team triumphCrossover moments, and quirks of watching WWE on NetflixPlus, Missionary tackles fan reactions, wrestler injuries, and the ever-evolving landscape of pro wrestling. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Join Joe for a solo, unfiltered, and hilarious holiday episode! From reflections on Christmas with pets and family, to rants about podcasting gear, wrestling fandoms, and the wild world of sports, Joe covers it all. Whether you're here for the wrestling takes, the football rants, or just the laughs, this episode is packed with relatable moments and sharp commentary.00:00 – Holiday Greetings & Pet TalkJoe opens with holiday wishes, muses on family vs. loved ones, and shares thoughts on pets during the holidays.00:53 – Cats, Dogs, and Family GatheringsWhy cats hate big family parties, and the chaos of holiday get-togethers.01:38 – Podcasting Gear & Tech RantsJoe's take on podcasting equipment, tech confusion, and the reality of most podcasters.03:41 – Car Comforts & Boomer HabitsA funny look at new car features, seat warmers, and refusing modern comforts.05:41 – Solo Shows & Audience PreferencesJoe reflects on solo podcasting, being a polarizing host, and the “Friends” effect.07:23 – Midwest Vibes & Listener DynamicsHow regional differences affect audience reactions and the nature of podcast “fans.”10:06 – Wrestling Fandom & Internet DramaDiving into wrestling fandom, online arguments, and the absurdity of defending companies on Christmas.13:04 – Truth, History, and Wrestling NarrativesWhy wrestling stories are all about perspective, and how history is written by the winners.16:48 – Social Media, Memes, and InfluencersJoe's take on Instagram, memes, and the weirdness of influencer culture.20:00 – Toxicity in Fandoms & Discord CommunityComparing wrestling fans to other fandoms, and inviting nice people to join the Discord.22:18 – Wrestling Stories, CTE, and Athlete ChoicesA deep dive into wrestling injuries, CTE, and the choices athletes make.28:50 – Sports Rants: Chiefs, Patriots, and QuarterbacksJoe's passionate takes on NFL teams, quarterbacks, and the downfall of the Chiefs.36:00 – Taylor Swift, Travis Kelce, and Pop CultureA hilarious critique of celebrity relationships and pop music.37:50 – Aaron Rodgers, Tom Brady, and Football LegendsWhy Aaron Rodgers is a “gigantic douchebag” and why Joe will always defend Tom Brady.38:47 – Wrap-Up & Final ThoughtsJoe thanks the audience, teases more content, and signs off with holiday wishes.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

– Intro & Holiday Banter– Show Length & Review Philosophy– Sports Podcasts & Seth Everywhere– Nikki Bella Segment & Rumors– Wrestling Rumors & Conspiracy Theories– Bronson Reed & Promo Styles– Maxine, Becky Lynch, and Women's Division– AJ Styles' Role & Hair Talk– Jevon Evans' Match & Enhancement Talent– Raquel, Judgment Day, and Storyline Threads– Bailey vs. Roxy & Character Development– Gunther's Segment & Heel Work– Main Event Setup: Punk & Mysterio vs. Reed & Theory– Logan Paul Speculation & Closing ThoughtsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

LuFisto and Evil Dos cover the AAA GUERRA DE TITANES December 20th show. Rey Mysterio & Rey Fenix vs. El Grande Americano & Dominik MysterioDragon Lee vs. El Hijo del VikingoAAA World Cruiserweight Championship Triple Threat Match: Laredo Kid (c) vs. Je'Von Evans vs. Jack CartwheelNiño Hamburguesa & Mr. Iguana vs. Bravo Americano & Rayo Americano vs. Cruz Del Toro & Joaquin Wilde vs. La Parka & Octagón Jr.Carnival of Carnage Match: The Wyatt Sicks vs. Pagano, Psycho Clown, Dave the Clown & Murder ClownAAA Latin American Championship Match: El Hijo de Dr. Wagner Jr. vs. Ethan PageLas Tóxicas vs. Natalya, Faby Apache & Lola ViceBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Joe and Anthony dust off the old Shitbox and take listener voicemails about the final match of John Cena and where he goes after WWE. - Old entertainers get cancelled.- political stances about rural areas of the US- Cena voicemailsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

00:00 – Opening Banter & Audio Troubles00:50 – Plastic Surgery in Wrestling02:42 – Saturday Night's Main Event Reactions03:36 – The Influence of Algorithms & Internet Culture05:29 – Comparing Ads – Podcasts vs. Corporations09:52 – John Cena's Retirement & Legacy14:30 – Wrestling Storytelling & Nostalgia26:44 – Foreign Invader Storylines & WWE's Global Image52:31 – Sports Illustrated Wrestling Awards1:05:00 – State of Women's Wrestling & Ambition1:23:44 – Closing Thoughts & Community UpdatesBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Join Anthony and Joe as they dive deep into the latest Monday Night Raw, dissecting the fallout from John Cena's retirement, Gunther's controversial win, and the current state of WWE's creative direction. From hilarious opening banter to sharp critiques of booking decisions, this episode covers it all—plus, thoughts on Logan Paul, Nikki Bella, and the future of wrestling's biggest stars. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual viewer, you'll find plenty to laugh about and ponder in this unfiltered, passionate review. :gunshot:00:00 – Cold Open & Banter: Reubens, fiber, and afternoon delight01:10 – Anthony and Joe introduce the show02:10 – Raw Recap: “Not trying” and the feeling of a series finale03:00 – Gunther's Booking: What did he do wrong?05:00 – The Cena Conundrum: Why is everyone mad at Gunther?08:00 – Storyline Analysis: Is WWE leaning on old tropes?10:00 – The Foreign Heel: Are fans booing for the right reasons?12:00 – WWE's Creative Direction: Locker room reactions and missed opportunities15:00 – Logan Paul in the Main Event: Is WWE out of ideas?18:00 – Nikki Bella, Stephanie, and the Women's Division21:00 – Booking Blunders: Austin Theory, LA Knight, and crowd reactions25:00 – WWE's Business Model: International tours, ticket prices, and fan fatigue28:00 – The Future of WWE: Can the product survive on hype alone?31:00 – Side Tangents: Mr. Beast Land, Randy Orton, and Saudi Arabia34:00 – Wrapping Up: Listener voicemails, final thoughts, and what's nextDon't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more wrestling reviews and discussions!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.