CAN LOGAN PAUL STEER THE SHIP? or THE GRANDE AMERICANO TRIFECTA (Wrestling Soup 11.4.25)

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

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

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

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

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

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

Join Anthony and Joe as they dive into the latest in wrestling, from WWE and AEW drama to in-depth match analysis, character arcs, and the wild world of wrestling personalities. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and check out our Patreon for exclusive content!Timestamps:00:00 - Weekend Wrestling Recap: WWE in Japan & AEW’s Big Event09:45 - AEW’s Late-Night Antics & Family Friendly Drowning?18:00 - Warner Brothers Sale Rumors & AEW’s Ongoing Issues43:00 - Darby Allin’s Recklessness and Character Analysis54:35 - WWE Raw Review: Character Work & Maxine’s Standout Performance01:05:00 - Becky Lynch, Paul Heyman, and the Power Dynamic01:10:00 - Tag Team Championship: AJ Styles & Dragon Lee vs. Judgment Day01:13:00 - Women’s Division, Kabuki Warriors, and Show Wrap-UpBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

00:20 – Andrade Watch 2025Speculation runs wild about Andrade’s absence from TV, with plenty of jokes and theories about his whereabouts and contract status.02:17 – Show Intro & Brian Alvarez DrivelAnthony officially introduces the show and shares updates from Brian Alvarez on Andrade’s situation.02:47 – Andrade WWE Non-Compete ClauseThe hosts dig into the details of WWE’s non-compete clauses, what they mean for Andrade, and how they affect wrestlers’ careers.04:04 – Wrestling News as Sports RadioA humorous comparison of wrestling news coverage to bad sports talk radio, poking fun at the rumor mill.12:30 – Unpaid Year Off?Anthony and Joe debate the fairness and legality of unpaid non-compete periods for released wrestlers.20:00 – WWE’s Global ExpansionThe conversation turns to WWE’s decision to host WrestleMania in Saudi Arabia, fan reactions, and the business behind global events.29:20 – AEW’s Training Center PlansA look at AEW’s scrapped plans for a dedicated training facility and what it means for talent development.41:20 – Seth Rollins Injury RumorsThe hosts address rumors about Seth Rollins’ injury, storyline pivots, and the blurred lines between fiction and reality in wrestling.58:30 – Media Store NostalgiaA nostalgic detour into the decline of music and media stores like Best Buy and FYE, and how the industry has changed.1:18:00 – Jericho’s Rock ‘N’ Wrestling Rager at SeaA rundown of the 2026 cruise lineup, notable guests, and what it says about the current state of wrestling.1:27:20 – Wrap-Up & ShoutoutsThe episode closes with shoutouts to listeners, Patreon supporters, and final thoughts on the week in wrestling.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

0:00 – Introduction & Season RecapLuFisto opens the show, referencing the LFG finals and the end of season two.Jeff reveals that LFT season three has been renewed and discusses recent roster changes, including surprise releases.1:51 – Commercials & International BroadcastsDiscussion about WWE commercials, international viewing experiences, and background appearances by wrestlers.3:43 – Surprising Releases & Character AnalysisThe hosts analyze the release of Hayes Jameson and speculate on possible reasons (injury, personal choice, or character fit).They discuss the evolution of certain characters and the importance of unique personas in wrestling.7:16 – Men’s Finalist Rematch: Harlem Lewis vs. Drake MorrowDetailed breakdown of the rematch, including in-ring psychology, character work, and match flow.Commentary on wrestling techniques, storytelling, and the importance of intensity in high-stakes matches.19:17 – Post-Match Reflections & Character FuturesReflections on the match outcome, Shawn Michaels’ decision-making, and the future potential of both finalists.Discussion of how certain wrestlers fit into the current NXT landscape.24:00 – Shiloh Hill’s Presence & StorytellingAnalysis of Shiloh Hill’s character, his on-screen demeanor, and the importance of subtle storytelling in wrestling.26:30 – Reality of Wrestling SegmentBooker T’s segment with Harlem Lewis, emphasizing the importance of “checks and championships.”The hosts discuss the significance of wrestling culture and personal motivation.32:47 – Women’s Final: Danni  vs. P NastyIn-depth play-by-play of the women’s final, including entrances, match psychology, and key spots.Critique of match pacing, character work, and crowd engagement.46:00 – Match Analysis & Judges’ ReactionsThe hosts and coaches reflect on the strengths and weaknesses of the women’s match.Discussion of what makes a compelling wrestling character and the importance of presence and consistency.54:00 – Shiloh vs. Harlem: The Men’s FinalBreakdown of the men’s final, including entrances, crowd reactions, and in-ring storytelling.Commentary on the abrupt finish and what could have made the match more satisfying.1:10:00 – Judges’ Deliberation & Final DecisionsCoaches and Shawn Michaels deliberate on the winners, discussing criteria for selection and the unique qualities of each finalist.The hosts debate the logic behind the final choices and the importance of explaining decisions to the audience.1:20:00 – Reflections on the Show’s Format & SuggestionsSuggestions for improving the judging system, including the idea of rotating judges and more transparency in scoring.Discussion of the value of diversity and representation in wrestling.1:30:00 – Closing Thoughts & Future PlansThe hosts promote upcoming content, including a retrospective episode with Dr. Gina Posan.Final thoughts on the season, shoutouts to the wrestling community, and recommendations for the documentary “Lunatic: The Luna Vachon Story.”Social media plugs and encouragement for listener feedback.1:36:00 – OutroLuFisto and Jeff sign off, teasing one more show and thanking listeners for their support.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.

[00:00] Saturday Morning Wrestling & Childhood ThrowbacksJoe and Anthony kick things off talking about the weirdness (and secret perks) of watching wrestling at 8am. It’s like being a kid again, but with more coffee and less cereal.[04:00] Perth Crowd, Ticket Prices, and “Is Perth Even a Real Place?”The guys riff on WWE’s big show in Perth, the wild ticket prices, and whether anyone actually talks about Perth outside of wrestling. Spoiler: not really.[10:00] RAW vs. Crown Jewel & Seth’s “Is He Hurt or Not?” SagaThey get into the never-ending Seth Rollins injury drama, why nobody believes anything anymore, and how WWE storylines sometimes make less sense than a fever dream.[18:00] LA Knight: The Best-Looking Guy Who Can’t Catch a BreakLA Knight’s booking gets roasted. Is he an underdog? Is he a cocky heel? Why does he keep tripping over his own feet? The guys have thoughts (and jokes).[25:00] Becky Lynch, Factions, and “What Even Is This Storyline?”Becky’s name comes up, but so does the fact that half the storylines just got nuked. Expect some classic “what are they even doing?” rants.[32:00] Bailey, Lyra, and the Women’s Division: Chaos & ChemistryBailey’s new vibe, Lyra’s straight-man energy, and why the women’s division is a wild ride right now. Also, a surprising amount of talk about wrestling gear.[40:00] Referees, Announcers, and “Back in My Day…”A trip down memory lane: when refs and announcers had actual personalities, and why today’s shows could use a little more flavor (and a little less sameness).[48:00] Dominic Mysterio vs. Penta: Cheating Done RightDominic’s heel antics get a breakdown, plus a debate on whether being “too smart” is a good thing for a bad guy. Also, some love for old-school Eddie Guerrero tricks.[56:00] Rhea Ripley, Asuka, and “Why Is This So Complicated?”Rhea, Asuka, Kairi Sane, and a whole lot of chaos in the women’s title scene. The guys try to make sense of it all (and mostly just laugh about it).[1:03:00] Bronson Reed, Jimmy & Jay Uso, and Tag Team TangentsBronson Reed’s gear, Jimmy vs. Jay, and why some tag teams just feel like reheated pizza. Expect some sidebars and a few “what are they wearing?” moments.[1:10:00] Main Event: Jay Uso, LA Knight, and CM PunkThe crowd sings for Punk, LA Knight almost wins, and the guys wonder if we really need another Seth vs. Punk feud. Also: more jokes about fruit punch boxes.[1:18:00] Wrap-Up & RandomnessFinal thoughts, a few more rants, and a reminder to check out the Patreon. If you made it this far, you’re a real one.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-soup--1425249/support.