Sorg and Dave Podnar are joined by Intern Tony for a full-throttle discussion on one of the busiest wrestling weekends in memory:
• CM Punk wins gold again — breaking down what this means for the modern WWE landscape.
• Jade Cargill vs Tiffany Stratton — was the squash justified or overkill?
• John Cena’s final match tournament — fantasy booking the farewell and who deserves the spotlight.
• AEW Blood & Guts — the men’s and women’s teams set for destruction.
• Local Mayhem — 880 Wrestling’s community drive and highlights from Pittsburgh’s indie scene.
Plus: “What We Learned” featuring 880 MVP Christian Robinson, wrestling Halloween cosplay, and why WWE’s extra camera angle inspired a new setup at 880.
🎧 Listen, subscribe, and join the conversation at www.WrestlingMayhemShow.com
🧡 Support the show at www.patreon.com/wrestlingmayhemshow
Hosts: Sorg, Mad Mike & Rizz
This week we dive into NXT’s Halloween Havoc and all its chaos — Jeff Hardy’s tribute to Bray Wyatt, Trick Williams’ big moment, and an unexpected AAA crossover.
We also talk Braun Strowman’s new Everything on the Menu series, revisit the WELC match between El Torito and Hornswoggle, and speculate on a Vince Russo JCW run.
What We Learned:
Viral promos need better payoffs
Tatum Paxley finally shines
Jelly Roll’s inspiring story with Triple H
Happy anniversary to WWE 2K20’s infamous bugs
🎧 Subscribe for weekly wrestling talk at WrestlingMayhemShow.com
Sorg and Rizz are joined by commentator Eamon Paton (880 Wrestling / VCW) for a chaotic and hilarious look at the week in pro wrestling and behind the camera.
🗒️ Highlights:
Seth Rollins injured again as WWE World Champion
Braun Strowman vs Paul Heyman drama & his new TV gig
AEW WrestleDream review and Okada vs Takeshita future tease
AI Sorg on Sora and why he can’t run properly
Indy wrestling updates from RWA, Neo Pro, and 880 Wrestling’s World Series of Wrestling
💡 What We Learned: AI Sorg runs weird, AEW runs long, and 880 runs like clockwork.
📡 Find all episodes and live streams at www.WrestlingMayhemShow.com
Sorg, Rizz, and Mad Mike welcome 880 Wrestling’s Blizzy Blake to talk WWE’s big Australia event, TNA’s Bound For Glory, AEW’s wild Comic Con panel, and what’s next for him heading into the World Series of Wrestling at Penn Brewery.
Also:
• Braun Breaker spears Seth Rollins after “The Vision” split
• Cena & AJ Styles nostalgia in full color
• Leon Slater vs. Je’Von Evans steals the X-Division spotlight
• Intern Mac’s homework: Eddie Guerrero vs. John Cena parking lot brawl
• “What We Learned” — Harley Cameron, Indiana gaming cafés, and learning balance in wrestling and life.
🎧 New episodes every Tuesday!
🎥 Watch full video versions at WrestlingMayhemShow.com
Hosts Sorg and Mad Mike are joined by Austin Cairns, commentator for 880 Wrestling and Point Park University student, to share his unbelievable experience calling a Hook dark match and stepping into the AEW Dynamite backstage world.
He breaks down meeting Tony Khan, chatting with Amanda Huber, and learning broadcast wisdom from Tony Schiavone — plus what it takes to make your own luck in pro wrestling.
We also talk about:
• WWE Crown Jewel and women’s division highlights
• Cena vs Styles nostalgia
• AEW Title Tuesday chaos (Mercedes Moné, Okada, Andrade)
• NXT × TNA crossover buzz
• New Homework Assignment: Eddie Guerrero vs John Cena (2003)
💡 What We Learned: Adam Copeland’s Emmy nod, Carmelo Hayes’s rise, and why flamethrowers still rule.
Find more episodes and live streams at WrestlingMayhemShow.com.
On Wrestling Mayhem Show 976, Sorg is joined by Brianna Bandz and Patreon Manager Bradley Ruthers. Recorded ahead of MV Young’s “Harvest Moon”, the crew dives into Brianna’s battle with Liberty, her wrestling journey, travel nightmares, and even Drew McIntyre’s new role in Highlander.
Other highlights include AEW’s big Pittsburgh moment for Austin Carnes, Patreon banter with Bradley, and a look back at Brianna’s early 880 matches (and the legendary Money Gun).
What We Learned:
• Bradley on the power of wrestling community.
• Brianna on embracing confidence and proving herself.
• Sorg on how 880 Wrestling prepares talent for anywhere.
Watch the replay of Harvest Moon on IndyWrestling.us (YouTube) or stream it on IndyWrestling.network.
On this week’s Wrestling Mayhem Show (Ep. 975):
• Hosts Sorg & Rizz welcome guest Brandon St. James.
• We react to the PWI 500 rankings and highlight our friends making the list.
• Full breakdown of AEW’s PPV including PAC’s return and the marathon Page/Fletcher match.
• Wrestlepalooza on ESPN: why Cena vs. Lesnar didn’t click, AJ Lee’s comeback, women’s title match highlights, and the mess of streaming/paywall access.
• Brandon shares his experience in a Canadian deathmatch and what he learned about safety gear.
• We spotlight indie action from RWA and 880 Wrestling.
• Plus, “What We Learned”—the inflatable horse, dinosaurs, women’s wrestling, and how Raw looks to a first-time viewer.
On Wrestling Mayhem Show 974, Sorg, Rizz, and Mad Mike are joined by Liberty L the Villainous, fresh off winning the 880 TNF Championship. We cover the aftermath of WWE/AAA Worlds Collide, Dominik Mysterio’s new role in AAA, the rise of crossover commentary, AEW’s couples booking potential, and the surprising places WWE branding is showing up.
Liberty L shares her powerful story of stepping away for therapy, returning with a new character, and her ongoing feud with Paris Sahara.
What We Learned: Card subject to change never fails, indie wrestling could shine while Mania is overseas, and Bayley Dent is the best thing going.
Hosts: Sorg, Rizz & Dave Podnar
Special: Introducing Intern Mac (new to wrestling) & Intern “Button” Tony (social lead).
Topics covered:
• AJ Lee’s return, therapy chants, and WrestlePalooza rumors
• ECW Wrestlepalooza nostalgia—Raven, Dreamer, Don Callis, RVD, Sabu
• Bloodline tensions & the possibility of Dark Side Jey Uso
• Wardlow’s injury and American Gladiators gig
• AEW/ROH in Philly: intimate chaos, Toni Storm, Athena, and Meanie Minion
• NXT live loop, Cleveland conflicts, ticket pricing, ESPN vs Max debate
• WWE/ECW vault expansion on YouTube
• Indie wrestling check-ins: Enjoy, Big League, VCW, 880, DEFY, RWA
• Fan comments and clarifications (shoutout Ray Lyn!)
What We Learned: forks, hoagie kendo sticks, Ziggy Haim’s WarGames, and Dunkin’ adventures.
This week, Enjoy Wrestling Champion Mikey Montgomery joins Sorg, Rizz, and Mad Mike to preview the Supersonic Tournament — a stacked one-night competition happening on his birthday in Pittsburgh!
We also explore:
• WWE’s rising prices and international event model
• Stephanie McMahon’s VPN ad & backlash from ESPN
• Ring of Honor’s technical issues and Tony Khan’s YouTube fix
• Mikey’s personal growth post-COVID and why this title reign matters
🔔 Subscribe for weekly insights, news, and laughs from the world of pro wrestling!
This week, Sorg and Rizz are joined by pro wrestler and promoter KC Warr to talk about his first-ever wrestling show — an 880 Wrestling event at Great Lakes Brewery in Cleveland! KC shares what it’s like putting together a major indie wrestling event, working with one of Ohio’s biggest breweries, and bringing in GCW Champion Effie for a rare appearance.
We also break down:
• Forbidden Door fallout: AEW x New Japan partnership, cage match highlights, Gabe Kidd’s rise, and Kenny Omega’s surprise appearance.
• AEW’s violent storytelling and how it sets them apart.
• WWE Clash in Paris preview: John Cena, Logan Paul, Seth Rollins, CM Punk, Becky Lynch, Roman Reigns, and more.
• Why indie wrestling is booming and how 880 Wrestling is carving its place in the scene.
📺 Watch the video version → https://www.WrestlingMayhemShow.com
This week we welcome back The Revenue Ron Hunt, and things get chaotic in the best way possible! We break down:
• WWE’s surprising presence at AAA’s TripleMania
• Why the show felt more like WrestleMania Lucha Libre-style
• Viral moments with Otis, Omos, and Microman
• The growing trend of puppets in wrestling—no, really
• Ron Hunt’s evolution from “The Rev” to “The Revenue”
• A deep dive into RWA’s Renegade Rumble and Ron’s big plans
• Behind-the-scenes insights from 2PW’s return in Irwin, PA
Plus: puppet puns, wrestling merch mania, and hilarious tangents with Sorg, Rizz, and Mad Mike.
🎙 Subscribe & join the mayhem at WrestlingMayhemShow.com
Hosts: Sorg, Rizz, and Mad Mike
Guest: Preston Everest, current Top Prospect Champion and Pitt Fight Champion
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📌 Episode Summary
🎤 Special Guest: Preston Everest
• Talks about holding both the 2PW Top Prospect Championship and Pit Fight Championship.
• Reflects on his feud with Super Hentai in RWA, culminating in a hard-hitting dog collar match.
• Shares insights about impersonating Super Hentai’s mannerisms during their storyline.
• Confirms he no longer uses the “Formerly Super Hentai” gimmick—“that ship has sailed.”
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🗞️ Wrestling News & Discussion Topics
📺 WWE PLEs Moving to ESPN in 2026
• WWE reportedly moving 10 PLEs (Premium Live Events) to ESPN’s new streaming platform, expected to cost $29.99/month.
• Potential loss of access to legacy WWE content, with only selective events (like WrestleMania, SummerSlam) likely to be included.
• Discussion about Peacock deal expiring, the fragmentation of WWE content across platforms, and uncertainty for U.S. fans.
• Rizz and Mike debate whether this is a regression to the $50 PPV model or part of a bigger business strategy.
• Possible bundling for existing ESPN cable subscribers mentioned.
• NXT PLEs are unaffected and currently stream via the CW app.
🤼 UFC Rights Swap with WWE?
• TKO Group Holdings (parent of both WWE and UFC) facilitates UFC’s move to Paramount+, possibly trading UFC for WWE in a content reshuffle.
• Speculation that WWE’s legacy content library might eventually land on Paramount+ due to shared ownership under TKO.
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⏱️ Evil Uno’s 21-Hour Wrestling Match
• AEW’s Evil Uno leads a 12-on-12 elimination tag match that lasts 21+ hours, unofficially breaking a record.
• Proceeds benefitted the Canadian Cancer Society, raising over $32,000.
• Wild spots included:
• “Devil’s Kiss” chain segments
• Referees smoking mid-match
• Training classes in the middle of the ring
• A Canadian Destroyer to a hot dog
• Surprise appearances by Dalton Castle, Aubrey Edwards, Stu Grayson, and more
• “Definitely Alive Jason Exile” and Not-Joe-Libra as comedy characters
• Preston Everest jokes that he’d survive the match by simply not tagging in.
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🧠 Preston Everest’s NWA Exodus Experience
• Shares behind-the-scenes stories about a potential character development at NWA Exodus.
• Auditioned a new “crazy farmer” character involving a leash for an invisible dog, gaining praise from Damien Sandow.
• Praised Sandow and EC3 for providing a “TV-style” character development process.
• Ultimately didn’t debut due to teammate Jason Hendrix’s injury, but says the learning experience was valuable.
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🗓️ Prospect Pro Wrestling: Resuscitated (Upcoming Event)
• Preston defends the Top Prospect Championship against Andrew Pallas, using insights gained from trainer Chris LeRusso.
• Highlights from the upcoming card:
• Fatal 4-Way featuring David Lawless, Gianni Michael Emricko, A1 Anthony Young, and Deputy Don Murphy
• John McChesney vs. Zach Nystrom (possible #1 contender match)
• Marshall Gambino vs. Jamie Jamison
• Debuts by Danny Moe and Gianni Emricko
• Appearance by former champion Gory, though not scheduled to wrestle
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🧗♂️ Preston Everest’s Dream Match Type
• If given the choice for a stipulation, Preston wants 2PW’s first-ever ladder match to prove he’s truly “at the peak.”
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💡 What We Learned
Each host shared takeaways from the episode:
• Sorg: Learned there’s a Google Drive archive of all the Buff Eagles created by Intern John.
• Rizz: Is now known as Scottish John because Intern John is going to Scotland.
• Mad Mike: Would create a 24-hour wrestling match with creative spots, including a surprise Boogeyman cameo every 66 minutes and 6 seconds.
• Preston Everest: Stressed that the key to surviving a 24-hour tag match is “don’t tag in.”
The crew reunites after WWE’s SummerSlam to break down an electrifying weekend of wrestling, live experiences, and storytelling twists. Mad Mike and Sorg share their first-hand experiences at SummerSlam and the surrounding events including visits to American Dream Mall and the WWE Superstore. They dive into the Cody Rhodes torch-passing moment, the surprise Seth Rollins reveal, and the unmatched fan energy. Plus, deep analysis on WWE Unreal’s influence, John Cena’s sudden face turn, and the Judgment Day’s growing aura — sexual and otherwise. The team also reflects on indie wrestling scenes, content production strategies, and the power of in-person wrestling events to create unforgettable moments. A show filled with sharp observations, hilarious tangents, and bold opinions.
Find more at WrestlingMayhemShow.com and SorgatronMedia.com
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📌 Topic-by-Topic Summary (Bulleted for Show Notes)
🛍️ Pre-SummerSlam Weekend
• Podnar and Sorg discuss the WWE Superstore setup and the energetic crowd at American Dream Mall.
• Fans celebrated Angry Birds Mini Golf success as if it was a wrestling match (“You still got it!” chants).
• Speculation about future WWE events at Mall of America (possible NXT event teased).
🏟️ SummerSlam Reactions
• John Cena’s sudden face turn and its implications.
• Cody Rhodes officially becomes “the guy” with a match that mirrored Cena vs. Rock in past years.
• Seth Rollins’ surprise return and fake injury setup — praised for its theatrical reveal and WWE Unreal crossover.
• CM Punk vs. Gunther — reactions to Punk’s win and Gunther bleeding unexpectedly.
• Discussion on the audience’s suspension of disbelief in the current era of kayfabe-blending.
💜 The Sexual Aura of Judgment Day
• Mad Mike presents a humorous and in-depth thesis: Dom is a victim of Rhea Ripley’s emotional manipulation.
• Suggests Liv Morgan is Dom’s true salvation from “goth cult entrapment.”
• “That faction f*cks” becomes a recurring punchline and suggested episode title.
🎭 WWE Unreal & Breaking the Fourth Wall
• Extensive discussion of WWE Unreal and how the docuseries changes how stories are told.
• How fan reactions and knowledge of backstage events influence the main product.
• Praise for Seth & Becky working together to fool everyone online and in media.
🏆 Women’s Division Highlights
• Praise for Naomi’s entrance with her father performing live.
• Emotional and hard-hitting tag team and ladder matches — especially the Gargano/Ciampa/Candice post-match reactions.
• Commentary on the quality and danger of the women’s matches: “TLC-level” chaos and injuries.
🤖 Production & Meta Commentary
• Sorg breaks down how WWE may have produced seamless edit transitions in WWE Unreal (in-ring teleport cuts).
• Podnar brings up meta moments like Logan Paul possibly wearing Meta smart glasses during his high spots.
🗣️ Judgment Day’s Rise & Storytelling Complexity
• Reflection on Edge starting the faction and how it’s evolved beyond him.
• J.D. McDonagh’s transformation from annoyance to respected risk-taker.
🎮 Celebrity Guests
• Cardi B and Druski earn props for being actual fans who stuck around during SummerSlam.
• Jelly Roll takes a bump through a table — fan respect skyrockets.
🤼♂️ Indie Wrestling Talk
• VCW’s barbed wire match, 2PW’s return, and 880 Wrestling drama involving Reese Hayes and Nix Wilde.
• Continued push to “watch more wrestling” with links to IndieWrestling.us, Neopro, and Enjoy Wrestling events.
🎒 Self-Defense & Situational Awareness Tangent
• Hilarious and insightful conversation about safety in public spaces, especially post-show walking.
• Touched on real-world concerns for traveling production staff and fans alike.
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💡 “What We Learned” Segment Highlights
• Dave Podnar: Ladder matches can tell a compelling story and deliver crazy spots.
• Mad Mike: “There are shitty people in every wrestling company” — watch what you want, but don’t pretend one is a moral high ground. Believe victims. Always.
• Sorg: Being in the building for a major wrestling event is incomparable — energy, crowd, and community make it unforgettable.
• Chat Room Takeaways:
• It’s elite to have your parent play your live entrance theme (Naomi).
• Power in wrestling may shift, but the past always lingers.
• Karrion Kross might deserve a renewed push.
Hosts Sorg and Rizz are joined this week by special guests Derek Dillinger and Katie Arquette of The Production! They dive into Netflix’s new WWE: UnReal documentary, strip club wrestling, and the wonderfully chaotic legacy of indie wrestling icon Jimmy DeMarco. Along the way, they explore the blurred lines between wrestling and performance art, reminisce about the evolution of The Production, and laugh through tales of Pop-Tarts, Darby Allin action figures, and surprise moments at shows.
Whether you’re interested in WWE’s backstage production secrets, the indie grind, or the bizarre worlds of DildoMania and Buff Eagle, this episode is full of laughs, insight, and wrestling love.
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🔍 WWE: UnReal on Netflix
• Deep dive into WWE’s UnReal docuseries on Netflix, especially Episode 1.
• Features behind-the-scenes looks at:
• Writer’s room discussions
• Triple H producing Cena’s segment
• Real injuries becoming storylines (e.g., Rhea Ripley’s shoulder)
• The chaotic last-minute nature of creative decisions (e.g., who wins the Royal Rumble)
• The magic of seeing production trucks, agent cues, headset calls, etc.
🎥 Pro Wrestling Production Talk
• Sorg reflects on similarities in production challenges across indie shows (880 Wrestling) and large companies (like New Japan).
• Derek Dillinger discusses directing wrestling matches and the struggle to communicate spots to camera ops and producers.
• Mention of “Top Gun”-style nicknames in production (e.g., Goose, Sweaty, Scorpion).
🔨 Behind-the-Scenes Stories
• The weird experience of filming a wrestling show at a strip club (Neopro at a venue with a neon-paint shower and no A/C).
• Tales of match planning, stress in locker rooms, and botch recovery as part of “the process.”
• Katie and Derek share stories of fans giving Pop-Tarts, driving with broken arms, and shouting at Sorg during ringside production.
🐦 Jimmy DeMarco Retrospective
• Wild stories about indie legend Jimmy DeMarco, including:
• Fans throwing dildos during cage matches
• Outrageous entrance antics with crutches and poems
• The legacy of “Suck My Muscles”
• Hopes for one final DeMarco match vs. Derek Dillinger
🔍 WWE SummerSlam Build Discussion
• Drew McIntyre’s travel issues and replacement with The Miz due to passport/visa problems.
• Discussion on Jelly Roll’s transformation and WWE training since last year’s SummerSlam appearance.
• Predictions and excitement for:
• The Triple Threat Intercontinental Match
• TLC multi-team tag match
• Cage match: Solo Sikoa vs. Jacob Fatu
🎭 WWE Character Highlights
• Love for Joaquin Wilde (fka DJ Z) and his standout tag team work on Raw.
• Discussion on El Grande Americano’s mystery identity (hinted to be Ludwig Kaiser).
• CM Punk’s stories on WrestleMania backstage hijinks and poop accidents during matches.
🌈 Indie Scene: “The Production” and Tag Teaming Life
• Katie and Derek reflect on teaming as The Production.
• History of The Production including Danhausen’s early days and viral “Tequila” bar spot.
• Shoutouts to Calvin Couture, Jock Samson, Magnum CK, and PB Smooth.
📺 WWE & Indie Storytelling
• Analysis of how WWE creates storylines on the fly and recovers from chaos.
• Insights on how indie wrestlers, like Derek, obsessively study others’ matches for improvement.
⚰️ Legacy Talk: Hulk Hogan’s Complicated Passing
• A nuanced conversation on the legacy of Hulk Hogan (the character) vs. Terry Bollea (the person).
• Acknowledgement of Hogan’s impact on the business and the importance of separating art from artist.
• Wrestlers’ reactions on-screen and audience discomfort discussed.
• Praise for genuinely kind legends like Roddy Piper and Ricky Steamboat.
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💡 “What We Learned” Segment Specifics
• Rizz learned that Bron Breakker is nearly indestructible after landing on his head mid-spear.
• Katie Arquette learned how incredible Joaquin Wilde (DJ Z) still is and how he continues to elevate.
• Derek Dillinger emphasized how even minor botches can be folded into a match with the right character work.
• Sorg reflected on the WWE UnReal doc and wrestling at a strip club, among other absurd indie tales.
• Tina (chat): It’s fascinating to understand wrestling’s backstage mechanics and how plans are often made up in real time.
• Ponder (chat): Pop-Tarts > handshake > hot dog.
This week on the Wrestling Mayhem Show, Sorg and Rizz are joined by special guest Referee George Ross, aka Big Match Bubby, for an action-packed and off-the-rails episode full of wrestling insights, travel horror stories, deathmatch madness, and plenty of mayhem.
They break down the latest from TNA Slammiversary, the crossover storyline potential with WWE NXT, and what a two-night SummerSlam means for wrestling fans. George dives deep into what it’s like officiating at independent shows, JCW vs. GCW chaos, and deathmatch culture—including wild teddy bears, 50 panes of glass, and exploding barbed wire setups.
Plus, the gang reminisces about old Rise Wrestling moments, mysterious family ties with Ray Lyn, and who might be Braylon’s dad… all while being harassed by a supportive lizard puppet.
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🔍 Topics & Stories Covered:
• Tekko 2025 Recap
• Sorg and Rizz attend Tekko in Pittsburgh.
• Shoutout to Antoine Scott and the panel with MV Young.
• Discussion on the ribbon culture and cosplay content shot for the event.
• Train Talk Detour
• Extended sidebar on Amtrak travel stories, Philly train station nightmares, and using business class upgrades.
• George Ross’s traffic battle and pizza appreciation.
• TNA Slammiversary Deep Dive
• Studio watch party and reactions to the show.
• TNA’s largest crowd ever at 7,600+ at UBS Arena.
• Praise for Cedric Alexander vs. Mustafa Ali.
• Criticism of the Trick Williams vs. Mike Santana main event finish.
• Speculation on future crossovers with WWE NXT and Bound for Glory implications.
• WWE SummerSlam Preview
• Thoughts on SummerSlam being a two-night event.
• Discussing matches: Punk vs. Gunther, Cena/Cody street fight, Iyo vs. Naomi, Stratton vs. Cargill.
• Possibility of WWE bringing SummerSlam to Pittsburgh.
• TNA crossover possibilities during SummerSlam weekend.
• Bradley Lore & Conspiracy Theories
• Viral clip resurfaces of Ray Lyn attacking Bradley at Rise Wrestling.
• Speculations online about whether Bradley is Ray Lyn’s dad or uncle.
• The mayhem crew laughs over fan theories and reflects on Bradley’s contributions to indie wrestling crowds.
• Independent Wrestling Updates
• George Ross on refereeing at:
• 880 Wrestling’s Big Ass BBQ 4
• NeoPro’s XXXtreme show at the Diamond Bar (strip club)
• Northeast Wrestling at Eastwood Field
• Discussion about JCW vs GCW feud heading into the Gathering.
• George’s reflections on early TNA Twitch specials he helped produce.
• Experience with Matt Riddle meet-and-greet.
• George’s cardio as a ref (30-minute Ironman match!)
• Deathmatch Madness
• JCW Showcase Showdown recap.
• “Clowns vs. Zombies” and Matt Tremont vs. Madman Pondo.
• Preview of Horror Slam’s 50-panes-of-glass match.
• Referee safety and tempered glass talk.
• Lil Sicko pegged as the next breakout deathmatch star.
• City Paper Awards & Voting
• Pushing votes for MV Young, Tondera, and Yinza.
• Debating who has better cardio: Jalapeño Hannah or MV Young.
• Shoutouts & Side Notes
• Bradley finally receives a butt-themed activity book from Rizz.
• Slice on Broadway ad crunch interruption.
• Supporting indie podcasters and referees in Michigan and Ohio.
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🧠 What We Learned:
• Sorg learned how many people might actually attend the NFL Draft in Pittsburgh—and what it might mean for WWE events in the city.
• Rizz learned Bradley is a lightning rod for speculation and somehow possibly Ray Lyn’s dad.
• George learned that cardio is important and maybe people do want him on more podcasts.
• The Lizard learned too many curse words tonight.
• Everyone learned that the deathmatch scene is more extreme (and oddly wholesome) than ever imagined.
Recorded live at Tekko 2025, this special panel brings the indie wrestling mayhem straight to the heart of Pittsburgh’s biggest anime and pop culture convention! Host Antoine Scott is joined by two of the city’s biggest pro wrestling powerhouses: MV Young—wrestler, promoter, and the mind behind 880 Wrestling—and Michael Sorg (“Sorgatron”), founder of IndieWrestling.us and longtime video producer behind countless independent wrestling shows.
🎤 What’s inside:
• MV Young breaks down the mission of 880 Wrestling, Thursday Night Fights, and creating safe, inclusive spaces for wrestlers.
• Sorg shares wild production stories from filming for AEW, NJPW, AAA, and more—including that infamous Samoa Joe match in Elizabeth, PA.
• The crew dives into Pittsburgh’s deep wrestling roots and its indie resurgence.
• They talk about training philosophies, production techniques, and what it takes to build a wrestling scene from scratch.
• Plus: behind-the-scenes chaos, Gangrel lore at Tekko, and big dreams of putting a wrestling ring in the middle of Pittsburgh!
🔥 This panel is equal parts hilarious, insightful, and raw—just like indie wrestling at its best.
📺 Watch full wrestling shows at: www.IndyWrestling.us
🎧 More episodes and mayhem: www.WrestlingMayhemShow.com
🎟️ Follow @TheOnlyMVYoung and @Sorgatron for updates on shows, training, and chaos.
👀 Catch 880 Wrestling’s Thursday Night Fights every week on YouTube!
In this jam-packed episode of Wrestling Mayhem Show 964, Sorg, Mad Mike, Matt Carlins, Rizz, and special guest Emily Fear from the Grit and Glitter Podcast dive deep into an explosive weekend of professional wrestling. From AEW’s All In spectacle to WWE’s Evolution 2, no match or moment is left unturned. They debate show lengths, production quality, powerful women’s matches, chaotic faction storytelling, and the state of pay-per-view economics. There’s humor, intensity, and plenty of wrestling hot takes—including Mason’s youthful perspective on the AEW vs. WWE battle. Whether you’re into elite storytelling or tart-themed wrestling personas, this episode delivers it all.
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📌 Segment-by-Segment Breakdown:
🧨 AEW All In Review
• World Tactile Match & Trios Confusion: Discussion on match placement and how Bucks vs. Ospreay & Swerve overshadowed the Trios title bout.
• Show Length Debate: AEW’s All In breaks the record as the longest wrestling PPV. The crew debates value vs. runtime vs. attention span.
• WWE’s Counterprogramming: WWE tried to stack the weekend, but AEW’s event allegedly “devoured” WWE’s offerings.
• Moxley’s Death Riders Reign: The rise and fall of Jon Moxley’s faction, including brutality, over-the-top cheating, and strong storytelling parallels with the NWO.
• Hangman & Swerve’s Truce: Deep analysis of the complex “we buried the hatchet, but trauma lingers” dynamic, and AEW’s strength in nuanced storytelling.
• Darby Allin’s Rappel Entrance: Mixed feelings about the callback to Sting’s style and echoes of past tragedies in wrestling.
• Women’s Matches at All In: Mercedes vs. Toni Storm receives massive praise for chemistry, storytelling, and execution—called “1A to Hangman/Moxley’s 1B.”
• AEW Production Critique: Sorg passionately calls out AEW’s overuse of wide shots, camera angle choices, and poor spatial storytelling.
🎤 IndieWrestling.us Plugs
• MV Young’s Big Ass BBQ 4
• Upcoming VCW and Prospect Pro Wrestling shows
• 880 Wrestling’s Thursday Night Fights
🎥 WWE Weekend Rundown
• Evolution 2 Highlights:
• Naomi cashes in on Rhea vs. IYO in a surprise Money in the Bank moment.
• Emily and Mike debate the booking choice and long-term storytelling benefits.
• Overall Card Praise: Strong performances from multiple matches, including a focus on in-ring chemistry and crowd reaction.
• Rhea vs. IYO Praise: Match of the weekend candidate for emotional execution and big-fight feel.
• Triple Threat at SummerSlam Set: Naomi, Rhea, and IYO’s evolving storylines create excitement for future WWE women’s division developments.
🎟️ Broader Discussion
• WWE vs AEW Strategy: Matt Carlins argues WWE’s “B-tier” shows were sacrificial lambs to counter AEW’s All In—debate ensues.
• The Case for Evolution as an Investment Show: Emily supports the event’s existence as a brand-builder despite attendance and sales metrics.
• Production vs. Experience: Contrast between AEW and WWE’s approach to entrances, camera work, and event atmosphere.
• Name Game: A humorous side tangent where Emily is imagined as a wrestler named “Raspberry Tart,” prompting discussion about the “Tart Family” wrestling faction.
💬 What We Learned Segment (Highlights):
• Emily: Wrestling is fun again—she’s re-energized by AEW and WWE’s recent storytelling and talent.
• Sorg: AEW’s year-long disappearance of the world title was a bold and effective narrative device.
• Matt Carlins: Wrestling is fun to talk about, even if you didn’t watch all the shows.
• Mason (Sorg’s junior cohost): All In had better vibes than WrestleMania 40.
• Riz: Favorite moment was the comedy of Santino vs. Mr. Iguana—“Snake vs. Lizard” feud.
• Mad Mike: Injuries suck; noted concern for sidelined stars like Adam Cole, Kevin Owens, Liv Morgan, and more.
Join hosts Sorg and Rizz with special guest Glenn Spectre, one half of the rising tag team The Troublemakers, for a wild, insightful, and hilarious episode packed with wrestling stories, deep dives, and backstage knowledge.
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🔍 Segment Summaries & Highlights
• Glenn Spectre Interview & Tag Team Rise
• Talks about the evolution of The Troublemakers, their organic face turn in promotions like APWF, and memorable bouts with Beastman and Zach Nystrom.
• Reveals what makes his tag partner Kanaan a “natural,” and reflects on building chemistry and crowd reactions.
• Shares experiences wrestling at NWA shows, feuding with Country Gentlemen, and taking on Knox & Murdoch in a hard-hitting triple-threat tag title match in a beer garden.
• Wrestling Life & Locker Room Culture
• Spectre describes why he hasn’t taken a vacation in 20 years, and how work trips double as getaways.
• Insights on the importance of catering, professionalism, and balancing comfort with competition in locker rooms.
• Describes his training philosophy and how a competitive locker room fosters growth.
• AEW & ROH Breakdown
• Reactions to the Collision tag match: FTR vs. The Outrunners – a masterclass in tag psychology and hot tag storytelling.
• Hype for AEW All In and ROH Supercard of Honor including matches like Bandido vs. Takeshita, Athena vs. Thunder Rosa, and Lee Moriarty vs. Blue Panther.
• A hilarious, confused dive into lucha history, mixing up Blue Panther and Blue Demon Jr.
• WWE Weekend Preview & Booking Talk
• Thoughts on Goldberg’s upcoming match vs. Gunther and how Goldberg still draws despite criticisms.
• Commentary on the evolving WWE schedule, Raw’s weekly PPV-like feel, and reduced house show demands.
• Appreciation for storytelling depth and Michael Cole’s comedic timing during El Grande Americano segments.
• Indie Scene Love
• Enjoy Wrestling recap including bubble-filled entrances, Sunny Kiss & Billy Dixon’s wedding match, and Mikey Montgomery’s big title win.
• Victory Championship Wrestling “marathon” on YouTube featuring four full events.
• Glenn plugs upcoming matches in Rochester for Upstate Pro Wrestling’s “Upstate 8” tag tournament and offers behind-the-scenes reflections on wrestling for promotions that treat talent right.
• Throwback & Deep Cut Moments
• Nostalgia over WrestleMania 9, Doink’s mirror trick, and WCW’s infamous battle royals.
• Tribute to Sabu including a firsthand story from Glenn’s match against him in the early 2000s.
• Talk about early 2000s match tapes, VHS dub stress, and how social media now boosts opportunities for indie wrestlers.
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🤯 What We Learned This Week
• Sorg: Bubbles make wrestling shows more magical, whether at a retirement celebration or during an entrance.
• Glenn Spectre: Great tag matches like FTR vs. Outrunners show the power of pacing, crowd manipulation, and the art of the hot tag.
• Rizz: The use of “Bill Goldberg” in promos is eternally funny and effective for building rivalries.
• True Prince Pro: More matches should be built around food rivalries (example: pizza vs. pierogi at Enjoy Wrestling).
• Viewers: Ashley Flair (Charlotte) shared deep personal struggles in a candid Players Tribune article, including fertility challenges and her journey through wrestling at age 39.
In Episode 963 of the Wrestling Mayhem Show, we welcome back long-time friend and indie wrestling standout Neon Ninja Facade! Join Sorg, Mad Mike, and Rizz as we dive deep into recent wrestling highlights, wild backstage stories, AI shenanigans, and the ever-entertaining chaos of fandom culture.
Topics include:
• 🥋 Facade’s Penta stories from the Remix Pro days and his wild matches with the Lucha Bros
• 🖊️ Wheatley Vodka bottle signing with Bron Breakker, and Sorg’s story of almost getting drunk before WWE RAW
• 📺 WWE Speed on X (Twitter) – struggles to find it, using Grok AI to compile match lists, and frustration with streaming content availability
• 🧠 Introducing Gronk AI – the show’s new favorite AI for comedic commentary on wrestling news
• 🛍️ Deep dive into WWE’s merch strategy: Money in the Bank briefcase, custom Cena farewell tour belts, and the elusive Jacksonville Jaguars WWE belt
• 🏟️ Reaction to the Pittsburgh RAW/SmackDown double taping, including Thea Hail’s Speed match and the surprising format of the upcoming SmackDown
• 🎮 WWE 2K pack ideas – including potential TNA crossovers and wishlist entries like Jeff Cobb and Abyss
• 🎤 Facade discusses his match in Ring of Honor against the new Indian giant and his unique travel stories with matches across the country
• 🧠 Nostalgic wrestling moments: Rhino breaking the ring at Jacob’s Pavilion, wild RWA casket matches, and Gory vs. Facade legacy
• 🤖 Continued hilarity with Gronk AI comparing WWE no-cut contracts to Bobby Bonilla Day
• 📺 American Gladiators reboot casting including Rick Boogs, Wardlow, and Jessie Godderz (Mr. PEC-Tacular)
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🧠 What We Learned This Week:
• Facade learned: The WWE creative team continues to reinvent and outdo themselves, especially with CM Punk and John Cena segments.
• Sorg learned: AI like Grok (and especially Gronk-mode Grok) can now rival ChatGPT for comedic wrestling insight.
• Mad Mike learned: Kevin Owens is the funniest drunk in wrestling, and the Wiggles are Australia’s second-best export.
• Rizz revealed: He went to high school with Rob Gronkowski, and somehow this story has never come up until now.