WRESTLING SOUP

Follow the host of the Wrestling Stew here:LUFISTOYouTube: @LuFistoOfficialFacebook: facebook.com/LuFistoInstagram: @LuFisto_arts_and_prowrestlingX: @LuFistoUpcoming documentary: lufistodoc.comJEFF LIPPMANYouTube: @GardenofThoughtpodFacebook: Jeffrey LippmanX: @Dos_EvilBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Zelina Vega goes full goth nowAleister Black career squandered by companiesTriple H jealousy of talents speculatedParental resentment of kids' success discussedShotzi as Triple H midlife fantasyMandy Rose OnlyFans release still oddRecent WWE releases list reviewedBo Dallas belief gimmick potential missedTiffany Stratton handles online hate wellMercedes Monet DJing All In afterpartySamoa Joe Dark Side of the Ring praisedSummerSlam coverage with John Draper plannedBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Discussed Monday Night Raw booking issuesAustin Theory looks like a Briscoe nowMaxine Dupri copying Liv Morgan's actLyra Valkyria awkward drunken heel promoLA Knight called out Shield overpushCrowd confused by Roman and SethJacob Fatu turned into Roman's bitchPaul Heyman promo stretched thin nothingPenta and Gable match praised highlySolo Sikoa salmon blazer look criticizedCommentary missed La Knight's pointsRaw feels like character study nowHardcore fans chased away by pricesSolo needs better tribal presentationBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

LUFISTOYouTube: @LuFistoOfficialFacebook: facebook.com/LuFistoInstagram: @LuFisto_arts_and_prowrestlingX: @LuFistoUpcoming documentary: lufistodoc.comJEFF LIPPMANYouTube: @GardenofThoughtpodFacebook: Jeffrey LippmanX: @Dos_EvilBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Joe attended AEW Collision taping in BostonTony Khan appeared with long armsBig Show commentating on Collision unnoticedCrowd mostly older middle-class fansLittle merch available at venueWill Ospreay opened with long matchJungle Boy versus Nick Wayne criticized heavilySpot-heavy death match style wrestlingCiampa got strong local hero reactionBoston's own Mercedes Mone`booed by someToo many matches over long showCrowd mostly positive echo chamberOutrunners main event surprisingly funTony Khan's show for hardcore sickosBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Discussed Saturday Night's Main Event from MSGCriticized Jalen Brunson's lifeless performanceRoman Reigns overly praises NBA playerTrick Williams showed basic wrestling mistakesFatal Influence won women's tag titlesStephanie awkwardly interviewed Oba FemiDanhausen match was fun fan serviceLyra's new look heavily criticizedLyra versus Bayley match was solidCody and Punk tag match well doneFrustrated with excessive commercials and pacingBlood spots and slow show flow notedWWE creative and releases discussed negativelyBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

LFG Season 3 Episode 10Hosts Lufisto and Jeff LaufmanOutraged over Apollo Crews situationCarly Bright injury and release discussedBraxton Cole works PhD book gimmickArlen Lewis lacks fire as babyfaceSerena Linton versus Zina Stirling critiquedTerry Taylor gives heel coaching tipsMain event tag match highly praisedHot tag and storytelling executed wellBubba Ray coaches tag team dynamicsWWE releases criticized as shortsightedFirst matches mixed second one strongFrustration with talent development decisionsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Dead internet theory discussed with AI botsBaron Corbin's WWE return heavily criticizedEnzo and Cass potential returns speculated onWWE favoritism toward Rollins and Reigns slammedBaron Corbin working for very low payGangrel says wrestling lacks meaningful movesKurt Angle TNA years reviewed negativelyDark Side of the Ring called Jeff Jarrett-focusedHogan and Bischoff blamed for TNA declineDave Meltzer accused of Tony Khan biasSaturday Night's Main Event matches previewedBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Extreme summer heat complaintsBayley versus Nikki Cross matchBaron Corbin SmackDown returnMaxine Theory Otis segmentSeth Rollins Roman Reigns promoBloodline Hobbs storyline additionDominic Mysterio cooling off popularityLiv Morgan psycho character overuseKeith Lee divorce personality changeBecky Lynch postpartum depression talkGauntlet match number one contenderBrock Lesnar Oba segmentPossible Enzo Big Cass returnBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Dark Side of the Ring TNA episode discussedVince McMahon heavily criticized by wrestlersBig Show signs new AEW contractBig Show praises Tony Khan publiclyHobbs happy in WWE after AEW exitSheamus expected to join AEW soonYoung Bucks vs New Day speculatedJungle Boy re-signs with AEWRandy Orton retirement concerns discussedCM Punk champ tour and possible departureDanhausen Knicks crossover at SNME mentionedTaylor Swift and Travis Kelce wedding jokesTKO corporate greed and entitlement criticizedBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Hosts banter about Tony Atlas interviews.Sheamus exits WWE after contract dispute.Debate rages over Sheamus joining AEW.AEW slashes All In London tickets.Raw features Roxy's awkward cute promo.CM Punk defeats Sami Zayn for title.Maxine Dupri starts public cheating angle.Jey Uso's divorce drama goes public.Seth Rollins promo flops in Chicago.LA Knight lands sharp verbal shots.Aldis and Pearce clash over authority.Oba Femi delivers menacing violent promos.John Cena gets simple black shirt.Episode laughs at wrestling's absurd moments.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Cassettes are making a comeback.Mason Rook lacks physical strength.Rook wears a blue swimsuit.Rook has zero in-ring personality.Looks and stories matter most.Paying traditional dues is obsolete.Paul Walter Hauser argues online.Sami Zayn faces title backlash.Zayn issued a defensive statement.Zayn possesses excellent wrestling skills.Zayn brings great Muslim representation.Few wrestlers truly deserve championships.Kevin Owens returning makes sense.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Raw entertainingly terrible and hilarious.Jey Uso's commentary sounds incoherent or impaired.Austin Theory buried hard across multiple segments.Oba Femi wins King of the Ring then shrugs it off.Brock Lesnar returns, kicks Oba in the nuts.Joe Hendry sings with Street Profits; gimmick thinning.Bird Girl turns goth/crazy heel in lazy fashion.Chad Gable's theme sounds like AI-generated song.LA Knight vs Jimmy Uso: standard filler match.Danhausen comedy swallows serious Gable-McDonagh match.Roman and Seth's long promo full of dick-squeezing nostalgia.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

LEGENDS AND FUTURE GREATS REVIEW SHOW S3 EPISODE 9 (Wrestling Stew 6.27.26) w/ @LufistoBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

King of the Tournament Finals -- Jey Uso vs. Oba FemiQueen of the Ring Tournament Finals -- Iyo Sky vs. Liv MorganSeth Rollins vs. Bron Breakker (Steel Cage match)Women's United States Championship -- Tiffany Stratton (c) vs. Jade CargillUnited States Championship -- Trick Williams (c) vs. Ricky SaintsUndisputed WWE Championship -- Cody Rhodes (c) vs. Gunther vs. Sami ZaynBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

notes.Catfishing story from Wrestling Rusty playedHosts react with dark jokes and banterTNA Elayna Black swimsuit promo under viaductTommy Dreamer spanking indie wrestler controversyDebate on vet authority and consent in wrestlingSammy Callahan's weight gain and appearance discussedKeith Lee post-COVID strugglesRoad Dogg potentially joining TNACriticism of TKO/WWE creative directionPaul Heyman's bizarre Apocalypse Now Roman rantBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Oliver Tree death discussed earlyRecent wrestler deaths mentioned brieflyKevin Owens wife drama analyzedLudwig Kaiser battery case updatedLash Legend appearance heavily debatedWhite House UFC event criticizedTNA fires Tessa and othersRoster talent evaluation coveredNo PPV this week notedEarly Raw SmackDown times comingBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

LFG S3E8 Podcast SummaryLufisto and Jeff review the episode.Chris Island returns with strong heel work.Mason Holliday gets her release.Coaches assign three key matches.Gargano helps Jamie Garcia break habits.Owens works with Tristan Angels.Booker promises a new Xena.Xena shows major improvement vs Nikita.Solid but flat second match reviewed.Hosts praise better episode flow.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Ava Raine on Libs Finisher podcast.Ava's deluded nepotism and lack of talent.Debate on Lash Legends looks and racism.Liv Morgan stalker ruled insane.Roman and Bloodline dominate Raw.Crowd cheers Bloodline beating LA Knight.iO Sky wins best match.Danhausen segments feel overexposed.Charlotte vs Roxy poorly booked.Oba Femi defeats Dominik Mysterio.Oba hits Samoan wall.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Anime / Manga boom: Logan Paul buying original One Piece issues, Netflix adaptation bringing in new fans, surface-level vs. hardcore fans, and whether the bubble will burst.Attitude Era vs. modern wrestling (AEW fans ignoring the past).CM Punk's body changes, TRT speculation, straight-edge lifestyle debates (especially for older wrestlers).Nancy Reagan “Just Say No” tangent and unrelated celebrity dirt.The Rock's cancer scare story (testicular lump), his one-day wait for results, health & money priorities for aging wrestlers, and related jokes.Speculation about Punk returning to AEW, Randy Orton/Drew McIntyre rumors.Meltzer influence and “copium.”Kathy Kelly / Kevin Owens' wife dramaAnalysis of overprotective parenting, autism social dynamics, rejection sensitivity, and why it should've been a private text.Jerry “The King” Lawler street renaming in Memphis (near a middle school)Wrap-up: Birthday mentions, personal stories (hot tub trip, Maine plans, Seth Rollins coffee shop joke), possum video views, and sign-off.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

LuFisto and Jeff break down the latest episode of WWE's developmental reality show. They open with the contrived Shawn Michaels segment pushing “Carnal Carver” (Keanu) to NXT, then review the coaches' assignments and three matches:Arlen Lewis vs. Tate Wilder (Gargano coaching): Clumsy and slow due to an early eye injury to Tate; both show promise but lacked fire and polish.PJ Voss vs. Mason Holliday (Booker T coaching): Heavily criticized women's match full of sloppy fundamentals, repetitive whips, and weak character work. The hosts express disappointment in PJ's regression after three seasons.Elijah Holyfield vs. Apollo Crews: Standout match of the night. Praised as a strong teacher-vs-student story with crisp action, smart psychology (targeting the arm), and real improvement from Holyfield.They also discuss coaching notes, character needs, Elijah's rapid progress and marketability, frustrations over Apollo Crews' release, and Shawn Michaels' post-match advice on fluidity and ring time. Overall, the episode gets mixed reviews — strong main match, weaker openers, and ongoing concerns about some talents stagnating.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

In this week's episode, LuFisto and Jeff Lippman break down a very “old-school LFG” show packed with international flavor. The coaches (Kevin Owens, Booker T, Bubba Ray, and Natalya) assign three matches, including a women's bout between Kali Bright and Bayley Humphrey (working heel), Elijah Ali (Elio LaFleur / White Eagle) vs. Malik Blade, and a strong main event between Mark The Router and Elio LaFleur. The hosts praise the in-ring action, coaching insights, and character work while discussing improvements, booking perception vs. reality, and the challenges of reality-show stakes when real-life releases are already known. They call it the strongest episode of the season so far for its heavy focus on wrestling and international talent.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

90s goth opening banterOverseas WWE crowd energySol Ruca vs. BirdgirlBayley and Lyra storylineNia Jax fantasy bookingRepetitive Bloodline storylinesLA Knight promo analysisBecky and Chelsea reactionsWWE vs. AEW fansDominik and Oba FemiJudgment Day needs muscleChad Gable and PentaQueen of the RingKing of the RingIron Chef sign-offBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Quick recap of the week of eventsMick Foley talks about wrestling in AEWRey Mysterio retirement talkWWE has Judgement Day fatigueLA Knight realizes he's getting older fastCM Punk might be juicing. Who cares?Nepo baby dream booking.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

0:00 – Ludwig Kaiser before Ludwig Kaiser10:45 – Roman discussion22:30 – Roman discussion33:15 – Roman discussion45:10 – Roman discussion55:50 – Roman discussion1:05:30 – Roman discussion1:16:15 – Roman Reigns and the boring Bloodline discussion1:22:45 – Show endBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Released Veterans & Scripted Rookies0:00 – Holyfield's scripted promo4:15 – Kevin Owens avoids coaching7:30 – Andre Chase gets released11:45 – Braxton Cole vs. Chase15:20 – Kelly vs. Serena Linton20:40 – Serena's identity crisis24:15 – Tristan Angels vs. Holyfield28:50 – Show needs a cliffhanger31:20 – Plugs and wrap-upBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

0:00 – Spotify ad break complaints12:15 – Free AAA vs. WWE25:30 – Road to WrestleMania logic38:45 – Making garlic bread52:10 – Cody Rhodes vs. Gunther1:05:20 – Jade Cargill's near-disaster1:18:40 – Rhea Ripley retains1:32:15 – Main event entrance dragging1:45:30 – Roman vs. Jacob Fatu1:51:15 – Neutered and domesticated SamoansBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

0:00 – Jacob Fatu's bad promo8:15 – Logan Paul court dates16:30 – Oba Femi threatens Brock Lesnar24:45 – Clash in Italy preview32:20 – Penta vs. Javon Evans41:10 – AEW's exhausting PPV49:30 – Dragon Lee and Enzo56:45 – Maxine and Austin Theory1:04:20 – MOD pizza is terribleBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

0:00 – Jacob Fatu's bad promo7:30 – Vision and Joe Hendry15:45 – Weak GM Adam Pearce23:15 – Seth interrupts Montez Ford31:50 – Obafemi threatens Brock Lesnar42:20 – Clash in Italy preview50:10 – Penta vs. Javon Evans57:30 – Rusev and Ethan Page1:03:45 – Maxine and Austin Theory1:08:20 – Wrap-upBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

0:00 – Intro & Tate's Vignette12:15 – Matt Bloom's Coaching24:30 – Nikita vs. Bailey39:45 – Tate vs. Chris Island54:10 – Chris Island's Screaming1:04:20 – Chantal vs. Zena1:16:30 – Indie Consulting Pitch1:22:45 – Plugs & Wrap-upBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

0:00 – SNME overall card reaction11:15 – Vision vs. Street Profits23:30 – Club WWE merchandise subscription33:45 – Charlotte Flair's facial surgeries42:20 – 6-Woman Tag & Michin48:10 – Sol Ruca's botched finish55:45 – Penta vs. Ethan Page1:02:30 – Paige, Brie, Lash & Nia1:07:15 – Malakai Black & Wrap-upBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

0:00 – Intro & morning wake-up8:15 – Ludwig Kaiser elevator incident17:30 – Reading the police affidavit28:45 – AAA match cancellation fallout39:20 – Fan reactions & Facebook comments51:10 – Mason Rook's NXT match1:03:30 – SNME: Penta vs. Ethan Page1:14:45 – SNME: Vision vs. Street Profits1:24:20 – Darren Young comedy pitch1:29:15 – Women's matches & Wrap-upBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

0:00 – Michin and Keith Lee8:15 – Summer house show tour15:30 – Danhausen and Baron Corbin23:45 – Big Cass return pitch31:10 – Dana White power slapping38:20 – Sol Ruca promo struggles45:40 – Women's Tag Team Titles52:15 – Oba Femi and Nia58:50 – Iyo Sky's wedding photos1:05:15 – Brock Lesnar and wrap-upBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

5:10 - The "Big Fat Guy" Wrestling Trope12:15 - WWE Creative Slump & NXT Failures20:45 - The Discount Summer House Shows Tour32:30 - Brian Cage's Physique & AEW Criticism45:15 - Kevin Nash & Pro Wrestling Unionization55:40 - El Cuatrero's Prison Sentence Appeal1:07:20 - Wrap-Up Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Lufisto and Jeff Lippman return to break down Season 3, Episode 3 of LFG, but both hosts express major disappointment with the show's current format and "phony baloney" production. The episode is heavy on critiques, starting with a women's tag team match where Matt Bloom calls out the babyfaces for showing zero fear against a monster heel. Things get worse in the men's division, as the hosts dissect Trill London's massive in-ring regression and botched spots against rookie Braxton Cole. The spotlight then shifts to Cam Hendrix (formerly Anthony Luke) and Tate Wilder. While their match shows promise, Cam's overthinking and a late-match stumble lead Matt Bloom to pull him from LFG entirely to recalibrate. The episode wraps up with a deep dive into the systemic flaws of the WWE Performance Center's NIL recruitment strategy, with Jeff and Lufisto arguing that developmental talent desperately needs excursions to indies like GCW or TNA to learn how to work a real crowd.Timestamps:0:00 – Intro / Disappointment with Season 3's format & Lufisto's cat interruptions12:15 – Match 1: PJ Vassa & Serena Linton vs. Layla Diggs & Mason Holliday24:30 – Blueprint failures: Synchronized dancing and missing tag team psychology36:10 – Matt Bloom's critique: Where is the babyface fear?45:45 – Match 2: Trill London vs. Braxton Cole & Trill's massive regression58:20 – The problem with NIL athletes quitting when wrestling gets tough1:06:15 – Promos: Tate Wilder's daredevil cowboy gimmick vs. Cam Hendrix1:15:30 – Match 3: Cam Hendrix overthinks, stumbles, and saves it with a pie-face1:27:10 – Matt Bloom pulls Cam from LFG for being too self-aware1:33:45 – The PC Bubble: Why WWE needs to send talent to the indies or TNA1:39:50 – Wrap-up / Plugs for Garden of Thought and Wrestling SoupBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Anthony and Joe kick off the show where they praise Iyo Sky's ring generalship and pacing, while tearing into Seth Rollins' exhausting television presence following his match with Bron Breakker. The guys vent about WWE's creative drought, noting Bill Apter's visible disappointment, the deeply confusing babyface booking of Roman Reigns, and the lack of a proper televised send-off for Asuka. The episode rounds out with a sharp critique of TKO's pricey ESPN streaming model, Backlash booking blunders involving Danhausen and Oba Femi, and a quick check-in on the cast of Jersey Shore.Timestamps:0:00 – Intro 11:15 – AEW's business woes and WWE's current creative slump18:40 – Iyo Sky's brilliant in-ring storytelling vs. Sol Ruca27:30 – The Seth Rollins problem & his match with Bron Breakker39:20 – Gunther missing from TV & Bill Apter's disappointment46:10 – The Backlash ESPN deal: TKO squeezing fans for money54:45 – Roman Reigns' "prima donna" booking & the confusing Bloodline dynamics1:03:20 – Asuka's indefinite leave and WWE failing to give her a proper send-off1:11:50 – Danhausen's Backlash mystery partner flop & Oba Femi's squash match1:16:15 – Wrap-up & Jersey Shore kayfabeBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

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

Post WWE Backlash show. Lee Sanders from the RCWR Show hosts Anthony, to run down what the hell happened at WWE Backlash. The Asuka farewell match? Also, the insidious intentions of Club WWE and the John Cena un-retirement invitational for the new John Cena championship belt. Danhausen already jumping the shark, and validating the hater-hausen criticisms on why this guy in WWE is a bust. Jake looking weak and silly, as the entitled babyface in a storyline that no one should want, and the lack of any reaction from Breakker and Seth's Visionary storyline coming to a close with all the fanfare of a dirty diaper.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

Anthony and Joe are back to break down this weekend's WWE Backlash: Tampa premium live event! With the dust settling from WrestleMania 42, the guys give their official predictions for the entire five-match card.Can Jacob Fatu dethrone the "cry bully" Original Tribal Chief, Roman Reigns, for the World Heavyweight Championship? Anthony and Joe dive into the Shakespearean drama of the Asuka vs. Iyo Sky clash, predict the fallout of Seth Rollins finally getting his hands on Bron Breakker, and debate who will walk out with the United States Title in the Trick Williams vs. Sami Zayn rematch. Plus, the guys throw out their wild guesses for who will step up as Danhausen's mystery tag partner against The Miz and Kit Wilson.Tune in for the Backlash booking theories, match predictions, and the usual Wrestling Soup chaos!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

0:00 – Intro / Raw Review: Asuka and Iyo Sky's "Shakespearean" mist segment7:30 – Roman Reigns' "cry bully" babyface promo and The Usos' return14:45 – Judgment Day rushed booking: Roxanne Perez hits Finn Balor with a hammer20:10 – The wrestling was good, but Seth Rollins' "I don't trust me" promo was terrible24:20 – Joe Hendry confronts Seth Rollins / Logan Paul conspiracy theories28:50 – Rumored 50% pay cuts for undercard talent vs. massive TKO executive raises37:10 – Exploring The New Day's contract buyout and Edge's AEW run44:20 – Match of the night: Otis and Tozawa stepping up to Oba Femi52:15 – Sol Ruca's botched debut against Becky Lynch and the Tiffany Stratton fallout59:30 – WrestleMania merch sales realities and Backlash previewBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

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.