The Retro Wrestling Archive Podcasts

On this special BONUS EPISODE of Retro Wrestling, Robb Helt sits in for Gene Jackson and welcomes Shawn Ng of the KWK Kayfabe Heroes Action Figure brand to the show to discuss this week's Jamie Dundee/PG-13 action figure controversy as well as the Pat Tanaka/AIW situation. FOR TONS OF EXCLUSIVE RETRO WRESTLING CONTENT: Check out our Patreon at www.patreon.com/retrowrestlingarchive Check out www.retrowrestlingarchive.club for all of our social media, merch store, and everything related to our content and podcasts ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

On Episode #119 of the RWR USWA Podcast, The Gang is back inside the Retro Wrestling Archive to review the January 25, 1992 episode of USWA Championship Wrestling and this one is another wild chapter in early ’92 Memphis, where the Moondogs vs. Jerry Lawler & Jeff Jarrett war is getting nastier by the week, Richard Lee may have just delivered the promo of the year, and the undercard suddenly comes alive with women’s chaos, strap match fallout, and a big Saturday night card at the Mid South Coliseum.The centerpiece of this episode is absolutely Richard Lee. After having his entire head set on fire during last week’s Coliseum chaos, Richard comes out bandaged, shaken, and speaking like a man who has been through something horrible. He says he was permanently disfigured, claims he cannot even control the Moondogs anymore, and then proves it as the Moondogs destroy Freezer Thompson and poor Dazzler Hayes (for the third week in a row).Look, this is exactly the kind of selling Gene, Josh, and Brian want from Memphis Wrestling. They point out that, too often, somebody takes a piledriver on the floor or gets fire thrown at them and shows up the next week with a towel around their neck acting mostly normal. Richard Lee goes the other way. He commits to the bit, sells the injury, changes his voice, brings the bandages, and turns a fireball spot into a full character moment.The other big surprise is how much life the undercard women’s angle brings to the episode. What starts with Tony Falk and Miss Jennifer turns into C.J., Miss Texas, Dirty White Girl, Dirty White Boy, Bull Pain, and Samantha all getting pulled into the mix. Dirty White Girl’s return gives Tony Anthony an equalizer against C.J., and suddenly the upcoming all-girl battle royal feels like something the guys actually want to see.By the end, the show sets up a loaded Saturday night card at the Mid-South Coliseum: a tournament for a shot at Kamala, the women’s battle royal, Embry vs. Dirty White Boy for the Southern Title, and another no DQ war between Lawler/Jarrett and the Moondogs. That’s a lot of moving parts for one week of Memphis television and somehow Richard Lee walking out wrapped up like he survived a horror movie still steals the whole thing.The Moondogs are out of control.Dazzler Hayes is catching another beating.And Richard Lee just might be the best thing in Memphis Wrestling right now. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

On Episode #63 of Retro Wrestling w/Gene Jackson, Gene sits down with a guest that a lot of Memphis wrestling fans have wondered about for decades: Brother Ernest Angel. Known for his short but unforgettable run in Memphis and Continental in 1988, Brother Ernest steps back into the spotlight for a rare conversation about how the character came together, why it generated so much heat, working with Jerry Lawler, Jerry Jarrett, Jeff Jarrett, Lance Russell, Dave Brown, Bill Dundee, Jamie Dundee, Eddie Gilbert, Missy Hyatt, Doug Gilbert, the Samoans, Maxx Payne, and more.Gene opens the show by explaining why this interview matters. Retro Wrestling w/Gene Jackson has always been about finding the people fans haven’t heard from in years, the names who weren’t on every shoot interview, podcast, or convention stage and Brother Ernest fits that mission perfectly. After Gene’s article and promo compilation reminded fans just how entertaining Brother Ernest was, the response made it clear: people still remember him, and they still want to hear his story.The heart of the episode is Brother Ernest explaining what the character actually was. He makes it clear that they were not mocking God, scripture, or sincere religion. The target was the shady televangelist type that had been all over the news, and Brother Ernest says they were careful not to cross certain lines. By the end, this episode is exactly what Retro Wrestling w/Gene Jackson does best: it brings back a name fans remember, fills in the story behind the character, and gives a performer who hasn’t been heard from enough the chance to explain how it all happened in his own words.For fans of Memphis Wrestling, CWA, Continental Wrestling, Jerry Lawler, Jerry Jarrett, Jeff Jarrett, Lance Russell, Dave Brown, Bill Dundee, Jamie Dundee, Eddie Gilbert, Missy Hyatt, Maxx Payne, the Samoans, and unforgettable old school managers who could make fans mad enough to jam a TV station switchboard, this episode is required listening.Brother Ernest Angel may have only been around for a short time.But brother, he made every minute count. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

On this episode of Rick Del Santo’s Classic Wrestling Talk Podcast, Rick welcomes former GLOW Girl Roxy Astor for a fun, honest, and surprisingly heartfelt conversation about her time in the Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling, how she found her way into the business, what made GLOW so different, and how that wild, campy, colorful wrestling world continues to live on decades later.Roxy talks about growing up in Auburn, Washington, having no real background as a wrestling fan, actress, or athlete, and then discovering GLOW after moving to Los Angeles. She explains that her performance instincts came more from beauty school than acting class, joking that learning how to talk to clients and make them feel great was its own kind of acting training.The heart of the episode is Roxy explaining that she did not come into GLOW as a polished actress or trained wrestler. She simply saw something that looked fun, bold, and different, and decided she wanted to be part of it. Once she got there, the pressure was real: training, bumping, running ropes, building a character, learning raps, and getting ready for television with very little room for error.The conversation also gets into preserving the memory of GLOW. Roxy discusses the documentary, the reunion around Mount Fiji, the AfterGLOW fan party, and her work with Robert Wynn on a play honoring Matilda the Hun, which won Broadway World Awards and served as a promise kept to Matilda during a difficult time.Look, the final stretch of the episode shows who Roxy Astor is beyond wrestling. Her work with animal rescue takes center stage as she talks about fostering dogs, working with Melita’s Dream Rescue, creating Wrestling is for the Dogs, bringing wrestlers and rescue animals together, raising money, and helping dogs find homes. It is a feel-good ending to a conversation that starts in the bright, strange world of GLOW and lands somewhere very real.By the end, this episode is more than a GLOW nostalgia interview. It is a conversation about taking chances, finding your character, keeping memories alive, honoring the women who made GLOW special, and using whatever platform you have now to do something good.Roxy Astor was part of GLOW.But this episode shows there is a whole lot more glow still coming from her today. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

***WATCHALONG W/BRANDON & GENE AT THE LINK BELOW***https://rumble.com/v7fhcrw-rwr-ecw-podcast-ep.-12-62293-long-live-the-king-of-philly.htmlOn Episode #12 of the RWR ECW Podcast, Gene Jackson and Brandon Wheeler return after a week away to continue their week by week journey through Eastern Championship Wrestling, reviewing the June 22, 1993 episode of ECW TV. Gene is still fighting off bronchitis, Brandon jokes that the Super Summer Sizzler Spectacular was so exciting Gene lost his voice, and the boys waste no time getting back into the chaos now that ECW has officially crowned “Hot Stuff” Eddie Gilbert as the “King of Philadelphia”.Coming off the Super Summer Sizzler Spectacular, Gene and Brandon talk about the show being available on Patreon, the fun they had covering it, and how Eddie Gilbert vs. Terry Funk stood out as Brandon’s favorite match from the event. More importantly, they point out how much ECW is already starting to change: the ECW Arena is filling up, the crowd is getting rowdier, and you can see the early pieces of what would become “Extreme” beginning to form right there in South Philadelphia.The biggest moment of the episode is clearly The Dark Patriot and J.T. Smith. Gene and Brandon spend time talking through the infamous crow’s nest spot, where The Dark Patriot throws J.T. Smith from a high perch and then jumps down on him afterward. They note how far the drop looked, how dangerous it was, and how unusual it was for 1993, well before balcony dives became one of the things fans eventually expected from ECW.Here’s the thing: this is one of those moments where early ECW starts to feel like something different. It is not fully the ECW fans remember from later in the decade yet, but the ingredients are showing up fast: the hotter crowd, the more chaotic finishes, Paul E. Dangerously’s presence, Eddie Gilbert stirring the pot, the Philadelphia attitude, and now wrestlers being launched from places wrestlers probably should not be launched from.The episode also continues to establish Eddie Gilbert’s role as the new “King of Philadelphia”. Paul E. Dangerously is now leaning fully into Eddie’s coronation, bragging about the city bowing down to its new king and treating Eddie like the man who finally gave Philadelphia a champion worth celebrating. Naturally, Todd Gordon isn’t buying any of it.Meanwhile, the undercard remains very early ECW in all its strange glory. You’ve got Don Muraco and Tommy Cairo having an awkward title match, Ivan and Vladimir Koloff showing up as a new Russian threat, Larry Winters and Sandman trying to settle business with Tony Stetson and Rockin’ Rebel, and the Suicide Blondes getting thrown around by the Super Destroyers and Wildman Sal Bellomo before the whole thing turns into another metal trash can filled mess.Basically, Episode #12 feels like a turning point show. Not because every match is great, and not because ECW has fully arrived yet, but because the identity is getting clearer. The crowd is louder. The violence is escalating. Eddie Gilbert has a crown. Paul E. is everywhere. And The Dark Patriot just threw J.T. Smith out of the crow’s nest, raising the stakes on what fans would come to expect then they made their way to the ECW Arena.ECW is getting better.And maybe just a little more dangerous. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

It’s time for a special edition “Shootin’ The Shiznit” with “Rollin’ Into Mempho.” Brian Tramel is joined by RynoJB to review Championship Wrestling from Memphis for Episode 43 in their quick RT format ! They answer the following questions about the show:-Hits?-Misses?-MVP??-What do they want to see on next week’s show?-THUMBS UP or THUMBS DOWN?They reviewed this episode!https://youtu.be/ad5kTzYj1Ic?si=a8XOGJi9sXIj31z8 ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

On this episode of Get Your Bell Rung Pro Wrestling Podcast, host K.G. Landry sits down with Vladimir Koloff, or perhaps more notably the man behind the monster, Carl Richard Brantley for a wide ranging interview about wrestling, legacy, travel, toughness, and the life behind one of professional wrestling’s most believable Russian heel personas.This is not just a conversation about a wrestling gimmick. It is a conversation about the weight of carrying the Koloff name. Carl talks about being the second man entrusted with that legacy by Ivan Koloff, following in the shadow of Ivan and Nikita while still building his own chapter in wrestling history. K.G. opens the show by putting that honor into perspective, describing Vladimir as a man who has spent more than 35 years in the wrestling business, traveled through 153 countries, and crossed paths with some of the biggest names the industry has ever produced.The heart of the interview is the contrast between Carl and Vladimir. Carl describes himself today as a man who lives a simple life, takes care of his 88 year old mother, enjoys calm over chaos, and loves taking care of his livestock, dogs, chickens, and property. But once he steps into the world as Vladimir Koloff, the presence, the history, and the weight of the name are still there.One of the best parts of the interview is hearing how committed they were to protecting that illusion. Carl talks about people coming up to him and Nikita at conventions saying they thought they were really Russian, and even fans who met them back in the day remembered them staying in character at gas stations, airports, hotels, and restaurants.The interview closes with Carl reflecting on legends he knew and respected, including the Road Warriors, Kerry Von Erich, Jake Roberts, Ric Flair, Ivan Koloff, Nikita Koloff, Stan Lane, and Andre the Giant. He speaks with the kind of perspective that only comes from someone who lived inside the business, saw the roads, the locker rooms, the conventions, the politics, the friendships, and the sacrifices firsthand.This is the story of Vladimir Koloff.But more than that, it is the story of Carl Richard Brantley, the man who carried a monster’s name, protected a wrestling legacy, and lived a life that sounds almost impossible until you hear him tell it himself. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

On Episode #22 of the RWR Power Pro Wrestling Podcast, Gene Jackson, Robb Helt, and Brian Tramel are back live on Saturday morning for another edition of TV5 Power Pro Wrestling, and this one has a lot going on before the first bell even rings. Gene is still under the weather, the crew takes a few minutes to remember “Superstar” Bill Dundee, and then they jump into a Power Pro episode built around one of the most interesting matchups Randy Hales has presented yet: Jerry “The King” Lawler vs. Brian Christopher.The episode opens with a thoughtful discussion about watching 1998 Power Pro through modern eyes. Robb brings up the idea that some of what looks hokey now may have played differently at the time, because fans didn’t have the same constant internet, social media, and endless media overload that exists today. That leads into the bigger point of the week: sometimes the Power Pro chaos feels ridiculous, but when it works, it works.Once the Power Pro episode begins, Randy Hales makes the big announcement: Brian Christopher vs. Jerry Lawler in the main event. Lawler immediately tries to shut it down, making it clear he is not going to wrestle Brian just because Randy wants him to. That’s the hook of the show. Randy is no longer just trying to embarrass Lawler; now he is trying to use Brian Christopher, Stacy, Brandon Baxter, and anybody else he can drag into the mess.The best talking segment of the show comes when Randy calls out Brian Christopher and tries to “smarten him up” about Jerry Lawler and Stacy. This is the kind of Power Pro angle that feels like old school Memphis when it clicks. It has jealousy, family tension, outside manipulation, Stacy drama, Randy Hales clearly trying to manipulate the Lawler family, and a match nobody really needed to see for a title, they needed to see it because of the relationship. There is still plenty of Power Pro weirdness, too. Billy Joe Travis smashes Lance Jade with what looks like a tiny guitar, the “new Rock and Roll Express” arrives with Jason Gibson joining his Uncle Robert, Kid Wikkid mouths off to Bill Dundee before ducking him, Derrick King steps in, and Randy Hales spends so much television time talking that even when the angle is good, the crew still agrees: it’s too much Randy.All and all, this show feels like Power Pro is getting back up onto the tracks compared to the previous few weeks with some intriguing storylines starting to developed.The King doesn’t want the match.Brian Christopher wants respect.Randy Hales wants chaos.And on TV5 Power Pro Wrestling, that usually means everybody gets punched before the credits roll. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

It’s time for a special edition “Shootin’ The Shiznit” with “Rollin’ Into Mempho.” Brian Tramel is joined by RynoJB to review Championship Wrestling from Memphis for Episode 42 in their quick RT format ! They answer the following questions about the show:-Hits?-Misses?-MVP??-What do they want to see on next week’s show?-THUMBS UP or THUMBS DOWN?They reviewed this episode !https://youtu.be/Ms-HlA_E-zo?si=nyDYimEIm0ZTdkGW ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

***CLICK THE LINK TO WATCHALONG WITH ROBB & SCOTTIE***https://rumble.com/v7fczao-rwr-wccw-podcast-ep.-11-who-is-the-boss-world-class-12983-review.htmlOn Episode #11 of the Retro Wrestling Re-View WCCW Podcast, Robb Helt and Scottie Wince, the Texas Bunch are back with another trip into World Class Championship Wrestling, this time covering the January 29, 1983 episode from the Sportatorium in Dallas. After last week’s Christmas Star Wars fallout show helped reset the table, this episode keeps the slow burn going toward the inevitable Von Erichs vs. Fabulous Freebirds explosion.This week’s World Class TV features the arrival of Yoshiaki Yatsu, David Von Erich making it clear he wants those six man titles back from the Freebirds, Michael Hayes battling Jose Lothario, and King Kong Bundy continuing to build the new version of Devastation Incorporated with The Great Kabuki all while everybody keeps asking one question: who is “The Boss?”By the end, Robb and Scottie are ready for two things: for the Von Erichs and Freebirds to finally start getting physical, and for World Class to reveal who “The Boss” actually is (Bruce Springsteen? Tony Danza??). The pieces are moving, the Freebirds have real heat, Devastation Incorporated is being rebuilt, and World Class is doing that territory thing where they make you wait just long enough to want the next episode.The war is coming.But first, apparently, we need clearance from The Boss. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

On this special edition of LIVE from the Archive, Gene Jackson is joined by Robb Helt, Scottie Wince, Jimmy Street of Give Me Back My Pro Wrestling, Brian Tramel, and Brandon Wheeler for a heartfelt tribute to the late, great “Superstar” Bill Dundee, one of the defining names in Memphis wrestling history and one of the most believable, versatile, entertaining performers to ever step into a wrestling ring.The panel watches and discusses classic Dundee clips that highlight who he was: a world class talker, a snug and believable worker, a master heel, a natural babyface, and a man who could make fans believe every word and every punch.The heart of the show is the panel explaining why Dundee mattered so much in Memphis. Scottie puts it plainly: if you do a Mount Rushmore of Memphis Wrestling, Jerry Lawler and Bill Dundee are number one and number two for a whole generation of fans. BT adds that Dundee, Lawler, and Handsome Jimmy Valiant were the guys fans pretended to be on playgrounds because those were the stars they grew up watching every week.The Lawler/Dundee discussion is one of the strongest parts of the tribute. Gene points out that both men were just as good on the microphone as they were in the ring, and that their feud drew money across multiple decades. Even when Memphis was struggling, putting Lawler and Dundee back together could heat the territory right back up.There’s also a lot of appreciation for Dundee’s realism. Whether he was cutting a fired-up promo, throwing punches with Lawler, screaming about being wronged in Mid-South, or standing beside Beverly Dundee with everything on the line, Bill made fans believe him. The panel keeps coming back to that word: believability. That was the gift.The famous Bill and Buddy Show segment gets the big spotlight late in the episode. Dundee and Buddy Landel take over Memphis TV, put on suits, bring out their own desk, call the match themselves, insult everybody in sight, and somehow create a segment that fans still talk about like it was a six month angle even though the actual “show” was one unforgettable TV segment.For fans of Bill Dundee, Memphis Wrestling, Jerry Lawler, Lance Russell, Dave Brown, Buddy Landell, Dutch Mantell, Joe LeDuc, Mid-South Wrestling, and the kind of old school wrestling that felt real because the people doing it made it real, this tribute is required viewing.Thank you, Bill Dundee, for all the years of entertainment.There will never be another “Superstar.” ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

It’s time for a special edition “Shootin’ The Shiznit” with “Rollin’ Into Mempho.” Brian Tramel is joined by RynoJB to review Championship Wrestling from Memphis for Episode 42 in their quick RT format ! They answer the following questions about the show:-Hits?-Misses?-MVP??-What do they want to see on next week’s show?-THUMBS UP or THUMBS DOWN?They reviewed this episode !https://youtu.be/NI3GlxDEa1Y?si=Si1QrHgbWR9NuYF- ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

On Episode #8 of Talkin’ Off The Top Rope, “The Grizzled Vet” Michael McCurdy welcomes longtime friend, promoter, booker, wrestling historian, commentator, and all around wrestling lifer Joe Sousa for a very personal conversation about growing up through the West Coast territory era, discovering wrestling through his father, preserving memories, finding his voice behind the microphone, and eventually helping build Rumble in the Redwoods into something special.This one is different because Joe isn’t just another guest. Mike explains right up front that Joe is part of his own story, one of the people who helped him along the path that eventually led to this show and the Retro Wrestling Archive Podcast Network. Their friendship goes back more than 30 years, and that history gives the episode a warm, familiar, “road story” feel from the very beginning.By the end, this episode is really about connection: fathers and sons, friends who become family, fans who become historians, commentators who become voices of a scene, and small town wrestling shows that become memories people carry with them. Joe Sousa’s story runs through San Francisco, Portland, Humboldt County, APW, WCWC, Cauliflower Alley, and Rumble in the Redwoods, but the throughline is simple: he loves wrestling, he respects the fans, and he wants the stories to be told right.For fans of Portland Wrestling, San Francisco wrestling, Pat Patterson, Ray Stevens, Roddy Piper, Don Owen, Roy Shire, Rumble in the Redwoods, West Coast independent wrestling, old school commentary, and the people who keep regional wrestling history alive, this episode is a must listen.Joe Sousa’s story is the real deal.And that’s why on Talkin’ Off The Top Rope, the stories never die.Follow the Grizzled Vet Michael McCurdy on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581684591623Follow him on "X" at @vetgrizzled You contact him at [email protected] ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

On Episode #118 of the Retro Wrestling Re-View USWA Podcast, Gene Jackson, Josh Briley, and BT Brian Tramel return to review the January 18, 1992 edition of USWA Championship Wrestling but before the boys get into the episode, the show opens on a somber note with the news of “Superstar” Bill Dundee’s passing. Gene, Josh, and BT take a few minutes to talk about what Dundee meant to Memphis wrestling, to their childhood fandom, and to this podcast in particular, where Dundee has been such a major recurring part of the journey.Once the review begins, this episode turns into one of the most important early 1992 USWA shows so far. The Moondogs, Richard Lee, Jeff Jarrett, Robert Fuller, and Jerry Lawler collide in a wild brawl from Kennett, Missouri, and by the time it’s over, Lawler has stepped directly into the tag team war against the Moondogs. What started as Jarrett and Fuller versus Richard Lee’s chaos suddenly becomes Jerry Lawler and Jeff Jarrett versus the Moondogs, and the boys immediately recognize that this was the start of something huge for the USWA in 1992.This is one of those episodes where the USWA starts to feel like it has found its next big story.The Moondogs are destroying people.Richard Lee is losing his mind.And Jerry Lawler just smelled money! ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Episode #25 of Cassette Wrestling News captures the wrestling world in spring 1992 as the industry continues navigating scandal fallout, promotion instability, and rapid cultural change while CWN itself leans even harder into its mix of news reporting, editorial commentary, parody, and underground fan culture. With Jeff Osborne joined by Sean for much of the episode, the show opens with extended reactions to WrestleMania VIII, widely viewed by the hosts as a mixed show carried almost entirely by the standout performances of Ric Flair vs. Randy Savage and Bret Hart vs. Roddy Piper, while the remainder of the card is criticized as average or below expectations. The discussion reflects broader fan sentiment of the era appreciation for individual match quality but growing dissatisfaction with overall WWF presentation and direction. A major recurring theme throughout Episode #25 is the widening disconnect between hardcore fans and the mainstream wrestling product. Editorial commentary including guest segments from newsletter figure Evan Ginsberg who questions whether fans continue supporting major promotions out of habit rather than enjoyment, while also highlighting the growing nostalgia for territory-era wrestling and more sport-driven presentation. Key news and discussion topics include: ● Ongoing speculation surrounding Eddie Gilbert’s potential involvement with Titan Sports, and debate over whether Memphis style storytelling could translate into WWF’s nationalized production style ● Continued instability surrounding Global Wrestling Federation leadership and staffing, reinforcing fears of another promotion collapse ● Rumors of major roster movement, including Jake Roberts’ movement toward WCW and shifting alignments across multiple promotions ● Independent wrestling growth, particularly smaller promotions and regional circuits attempting to fill the creative void left by the territory system ● Reports of injuries and roster shifts in Memphis and USWA markets, alongside strong local fan engagement and continued emphasis on heat-driven brawling style matches Episode #25 also strongly reflects the transitional media environment of the era. CWN devotes time to discussing early online rumor sources particularly early computer network message systems which the hosts criticize as unreliable and prone to misinformation, foreshadowing the future information battles that would define wrestling coverage in the internet age. The episode also contains several major CWN “universe” developments, including: ● Increasing absence of longtime co-host John Seaton, culminating in an on-air retirement announcement framed through CWN’s trademark blend of satire and shoot-style storytelling ● Continued parody call-ins and character segments, including appearances from recurring CWN personalities and storyline-style internal conflicts ● Expanded listener interaction, tape trading promotion, and underground wrestling media networking Episode #25 stands as a strong representation of Cassette Wrestling News at its most layered functioning simultaneously as news source, fan editorial, underground media hub, and proto podcast entertainment product. More importantly, the episode captures a fanbase in transition: still passionate, increasingly skeptical, and searching for authenticity in an industry moving rapidly toward corporate consolidation and nationalized presentation. This transcript is preserved for historical and archival purposes as part of an ongoing effort to document Cassette Wrestling News as one of the earliest and most influential precursors to modern pro wrestling podcasts. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

On Episode #62 of Retro Wrestling w/Gene Jackson, Gene Jackson is joined once again by Brian Tramel for Part Three of the deep dive into Ozark Mountain Wrestling, the Jonesboro, Arkansas based promotion that somehow managed to be local, outlaw adjacent, surprisingly ambitious, deeply personal, and connected to the dying days of the territory system all at the same time.This final chapter picks up with BT admitting that even he thought Ozark Mountain Wrestling was pretty much done after 1995 only to find out through the research that Bert Prentice and company kept running well into 1996, changed directions, crossed paths with USWA, and eventually morphed toward North American All-Star Wrestling and later Music City Wrestling.The centerpiece of this episode is the realization that Ozark Mountain Wrestling didn’t just vanish after its biggest Jonesboro show. BT explains that the promotion kept running through 1996, drew real money in certain towns, worked with USWA talent, and eventually became tangled up with the same late territory Memphis ecosystem that Gene and Robb have been covering in the USWA lawsuit series.The episode also has plenty of classic BT side roads: Dirty Little Dave, outlaw shows in Arkansas, a dirt-floor dressing room, Reggie Montgomery, flea market wrestling, small town pizza economics, local promoters fighting over the same tiny audience, and BT’s own idea for a Jonesboro wrestling venue that would have mixed weekly wrestling with YouTube style distribution and event rentals.By the end, Part Three becomes less about wrapping up a failed little promotion and more about understanding one of the last strange branches of the territory era. Ozark Mountain Wrestling started as this quirky Jonesboro project built around Bert Prentice, Colorado Kid, local Arkansas talent, and borrowed names but it lasted longer than expected, drew better than expected in spots, crossed paths with USWA, and helped bridge the gap between dying territory wrestling and the independent scene that followed.For fans of Ozark Mountain Wrestling, Bert Prentice, Colorado Kid, Jonesboro wrestling, USWA, Bill Dundee, Jerry Lawler, Brian Christopher, Bull Pain, Dirty Little Dave, Future Shock, Cactus Jack, Missy Hyatt, Music City Wrestling, and weird little pieces of wrestling history that almost slipped through the cracks, this is the one that ties it all together.Ozark Mountain Wrestling wasn’t dead after 1995.It was just getting weirder. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

On this episode of Rick Del Santo’s Classic Wrestling Talk Podcast, Rick welcomes Roger Sartain for a deep conversation about Roger’s life in and around professional wrestling, from growing up on the Nick Gulas territory, to breaking into the business in Alabama, working Deep South Wrestling, Southern Championship Wrestling, independent shows across Georgia and Tennessee, and crossing paths with a long list of familiar names from old school wrestling.Roger starts at the beginning, talking about watching wrestling as a child with his grandfather and being hooked by stars like Jackie Fargo, Lynn Rossi, and Tojo Yamamoto. He also remembers the early Gulas territory names who influenced him, including Bobby Eaton and Arvil Hutto, and explains how that childhood fandom eventually turned into a real desire to get into the wrestling business himself.The Deep South Wrestling material is especially interesting because Roger explains that he was originally brought along by Richard, only to be asked to referee on TV when another referee didn’t show up. He had never refereed before, but Bill Harris told him he would be fine, and Roger stepped in wearing black slacks, boots, and a referee shirt he happened to have with him.Roger also gives a lot of credit to the people who helped shape him, especially Jody Hamilton and the Deep South crew. By his own admission, Roger already knew moves and could take bumps before he got there, but Deep South helped teach him how to actually work. That distinction is one of the strongest takeaways from the whole interview.There’s also plenty of good old-school name discussion. Roger talks about Randy Rose, Wildcat Wendell Cooley, Bullet Bob Armstrong, Action Mike Jackson, Tom Zenk, Terry Gordy, Jack Victory, Rip Morgan, Ricky Morton, Robert Gibson, and Jimmy Powell. Some stories are funny, some are blunt, and some are just good examples of what it was like to work independent wrestling in that era.By the end, this episode feels like exactly what Classic Wrestling Talk does best: giving a platform to someone who may not be a household name to every modern fan, but who lived the business, worked with major names, learned from veterans, traveled the roads, and came away with stories worth preserving.For fans of Deep South Wrestling, Nick Gulas territory wrestling, Southern Championship Wrestling, Alabama and Georgia independent wrestling, Roger Sartain, Richard Sartain, Jody Hamilton, Bill Harris, Mickey Henry, Randy Rose, Wildcat Wendell Cooley, Bullet Bob Armstrong, Rock ’n’ Roll Express, Action Mike Jackson, Terry Gordy, Jack Victory, Rip Morgan, and real old school wrestling conversations, this episode is a great listen.Roger Sartain may not have chased the national spotlight.But he lived the life, learned the business, and earned the stories.Check out more great stuff from Rick Del Santo on his YouTube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/@TheRickDelSantoFollow him on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/theprofrickdelsanto ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

On Episode #11 of Beyond Wrestling w/Robb, Robb Helt and Gene Jackson return to the Neutral Corner Lounge for Part Three of the ongoing look at the USWA/XL Sports/Larry Burton/Jerry Lawler/Jerry Jarrett legal mess but this time, they aren’t just working from court documents, timelines, and educated guesses. They’re joined by Tony Myers, who was actually around the USWA during the final stretch, hauled the ring, worked as enhancement talent, saw the backstage atmosphere firsthand, and was even subpoenaed for deposition in the case.Tony makes it clear right away that he wasn’t trying to paint himself as a major player in the office. He describes himself as the lowest man on the totem pole, the guy holding and hauling the ring but that’s exactly what makes his perspective so valuable. He was close enough to see the weirdness, hear the arguments, run the errands, deal with the money cuts, watch the locker room react, and later get dragged into the legal side of the fallout, without having a need to cover his own ass like many of the players would feel the need to.The biggest difference in this episode is that Tony Myers lived inside the chaos. Parts One and Two laid out the legal structure and the confusing sale story, but Tony gives the story real insight and context: the boys refusing to sign merchandise papers, Lawler trying to calm everybody down, Burton treating Memphis TV like a movie set, pay getting cut, ring crew problems, and the constant feeling that nobody really knew who was in charge anymore.But the episode isn’t just legal talk. Actually, some of the best moments are Tony’s Memphis stories: Jamie Dundee impressions, Billy Joe Travis tales, Admiral Benbow misery, Jackie and Luna coming to blows in the dressing room, Viscera calling Larry Burton, and believe it or not, a touching story about Brian Christopher and Jamie Dundee that nearly gets everyone on the screen emotional.By the end, Robb sums up the key takeaway: Tony’s stories may be wild, funny, and all over the place, but they also support the larger point that the USWA’s final days were even messier than the paperwork could ever make them look.For fans of USWA, Memphis Wrestling, Jerry Lawler, Jerry Jarrett, Larry Burton, XL Sports, Mark Selker, Tony Myers, Downtown Bruno, Jamie Dundee, Brian Christopher, Bill Dundee, Dave Brown, Corey Maclin, wrestling lawsuits, tape trading, and the real behind-the-scenes wreckage of the last territory, this one is required listening.Part Three isn’t just about the lawsuit.It’s about what the collapse looked like from someone on the inside. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

On this episode of Get Your Bell Rung Pro Wrestling Podcast, host K.G. Landry welcomes Gene Jackson, wrestling author, podcaster, play by play announcer, archivist, and founder of the Retro Wrestling Archive, for a long form conversation about preserving the pieces of wrestling history that too often fall through the cracks. K.G. opens the episode by putting over Gene’s mission: tracking down forgotten names, territory stories, old footage, newspaper clippings, photos, memories, and the people who helped build wrestling outside the biggest spotlight.This isn’t a standard “what was your favorite match?” interview. K.G. and Gene dig into why wrestling history matters, how much has already been lost, and why the stories of journeymen, managers, referees, announcers, promoters, photographers, TV crews, and local territory stars deserve to be preserved right alongside the legends.A quick sidebar, at the beginning of the interview, K.G. referred to Gene as a historian. After the interview, “off air”, Gene said, he didn’t set out to become a “historian”, he admitted he has come to HATE that term and insists that he’s doesn’t like being referred to as a “historian” simply because too many people in the “pro wrestling nostalgia podcast space” in recent years have proclaimed themselves “historians” or have been christened with the title by other people, when they are basically, “just wrestling fans who watched a lot of wrestling and bought a couple of Feinstein’s Shoot Interview tapes. When pressed about details on topics they proclaim to be a “historian” of, most don’t really know s***. They know surface level information from memory, but they aren’t “studying” anything or recording any “history”, they just think it looks cool on their bio. I do a TON of research for my articles and “deep dive” shows and could justify calling myself a “historian” if I wanted to, but at this point, in my mind the title is sorta tainted. But that’s just me, I’m a bit of an a**hole, so it’s probably good we aren’t recording this.” Sorry, it’s a fun take, I had to work that in somewhere, back to the actual interview.The strongest thread of the episode is Gene’s explanation of how the Retro Wrestling Archive grew out of genuine fandom. He was a fan who loved Memphis, Continental, Mid South, tape trading, obscure footage, and the kind of wrestlers who might not show up on every “greatest ever” list but still mattered to the people who watched them every week.The Eddie Gilbert discussion is a major highlight. Gene talks about starting the book years earlier, shelving it out it for a number of reasons, then eventually connecting with Doug at the perfect time. What makes that story so meaningful is that the final book was able to include voices like Lance Russell, Jerry Jarrett, Eddie and Doug’s parents, and a few other whom would not have been available if the project had started from scratch years two years ago.The interview also gets into Gene’s philosophy as an interviewer. He talks about avoiding the same recycled questions, only interviewing people he has a genuine interest in talking to, and listening closely enough to follow up on their answer instead of just moving to the next pre-written question on a list. K.G. connects with that immediately, because Get Your Bell Rung is built around those same deeper, more personal conversations.By the end, the episode becomes as much about purpose as it is about wrestling. Gene explains that if one of his shows makes someone’s week better, introduces a fan to a wrestler they didn’t know, or helps keep a forgotten story alive, then the work matters. That’s the heart of the Retro Wrestling Archive, and it lines up perfectly with K.G.’s own mission of giving wrestlers a place to tell the parts of their story that most interviews skip.For fans of Retro Wrestling Archive, Get Your Bell Rung, Memphis Wrestling, Continental Wrestling, Mid South Wrestling, Eddie Gilbert, Doug Gilbert, Tommy Rich, Wolfie D, Jamie Dundee, forgotten territory names, and real conversations about why wrestling history is worth saving, this episode is a must listen.This is unfiltered wrestling history.And Gene Jackson is still chasing the stories before they disappear. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

It’s time for a new episode of “Shootin’ The Shiznit.” Brian Tramel brings you “THE WTF News Desk.”BT brings you an insider's perspective to the bizarre happenings in thesquared circle and the octagon. From outlandish storylines to mind-bending maneuvers, THE WTF News Desk is your go-to source for all things unconventional in the fight world.Check out our LINK OF ALL LINKS to watch the show and listen to ourpodcasts!linktr.ee/STSPOD ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

It’s time for a special edition “Shootin’ The Shiznit” with “Rollin’ Into Mempho.” Brian Tramel is joined by RynoJB to review Championship Wrestling from Memphis for Awards Show Special in their quick RT format ! They answer the following questions about the show:-Hits?-Misses?-MVP??-What do they want to see on next week’s show?-THUMBS UP or THUMBS DOWN? ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

***WATCHALONG WITH GENE & ROBB AT THIS LINK***https://rumble.com/v7es7bo-rwr-continental-wrestling-podcast-ep.-14-11985-chicken-suits-pink-belts-and.htmlOn Episode #14 of the RWR Continental Wrestling Podcast, Gene Jackson and Robb Helt head back into Continental Championship Wrestling as 1985 starts winding down and the territory begins setting the table for what should be a very interesting 1986. Gene points out that 1985 has already delivered plenty, especially the Nightmares versus Rich Cousins but there’s a feeling that Continental is starting to pick up steam as the year heads toward the finish line.This week’s episode has better video quality, solid audio, and a lot happening: a loser leaves town lights out issue with The Bullet and Jimmy Golden, a hot tag title match between the Nightmares and the Rich Cousins, the continuing weirdness of Adrian Street, Miss Linda, and Norvell Austin, and the setup for upcoming TV Title Tournament finals and the much hyped Austin Idol vs. Exotic Adrian Street dream match.By the end of the episode, Gene and Robb both seem encouraged by where Continental is going. The Nightmares/Riches feud is working, Adrian Street is tremendous television, the Bullet angle still has juice, and 1986 is starting to look like the year where this podcast may really hit its stride.Episode #14 is a good one: better footage, better pacing, a strong tag title change, Linda in disguise, two Bullets, chicken suit humiliation, and Gordon Solie standing behind what is apparently a literal bar! ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

On Episode #21 of the RWR Power Pro Wrestling Podcast, Gene Jackson, Robb Helt, and Brian Tramel go LIVE on a Saturday morning for another trip back into Memphis Power Pro Wrestling and this one starts with a little Facebook heat, a big Retro Wrestling Archive announcement, and then slides straight into one of the wildest, messiest, most “1998 Memphis” episodes they’ve covered yet.Before the Power Pro chaos even begins, the guys address a critic who didn’t quite understand the concept of a watch-along podcast, Robb fires back in true Texas Bunch fashion, and Gene announces that Retro Wrestling Archive is joining WSN+, with shows coming to Roku, Fire TV, Google TV, mobile apps, on-demand viewing, and a 24/7 Retro Wrestling Archive stream.By the end, the weekly wrap-up says it all. Robb’s hit is “the show ending,” Gene’s miss is the cage segment going too far, and BT’s hit is Randy being in the cage and Lawler tipping him over. Everybody agrees this episode is messy, but there’s also something weirdly addictive about it. Power Pro may not be good every week, but it sure isn’t boring.Basically, Episode #21 is a perfect example of why this show works. The Power Pro episode itself is all over the place, but Gene, Robb, and BT turn the madness into the real main event with live comments, inside Memphis context, random sidebars, great one liners, and enough late 90s wrestling absurdity to make you question whether anybody in that studio knew where the brakes were.And somehow, that’s the charm……but, hey…..it’s not for everybody.  ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

It’s time for a special edition “Shootin’ The Shiznit” with “Rollin’ Into Mempho.” Brian Tramel is joined by RynoJB to review Championship Wrestling from Memphis for Episode 40 in their quick RT format ! They answer the following questions about the show:-Hits?-Misses?-MVP??-What do they want to see on next week’s show?-THUMBS UP or THUMBS DOWN?They reviewed this episode !https://youtu.be/XOgMfRjLGxw?si=br1HeBFyP5dnVY9Y ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

On Episode #61 of Retro Wrestling w/Gene Jackson, Gene sits down with Rich Patterson, the man Gene calls the owner of the closest thing there is to a true Portland Wrestling Archive, for a deep conversation about Don Owen’s Portland territory, Buddy Rose’s tape collection, lost footage, territory preservation, Billy Jack Haynes, Rip Oliver, Frank Bonnema, Don Coss, Tom Peterson commercials, Roddy Piper, Chris Colt, Len Denton, and why Portland Wrestling deserves far more respect in the history of the wrestling business.This episode serves as both a Portland Wrestling history lesson and a launch primer for the new Retro Wrestling Re-View Portland Wrestling Patreon watchalong series with Gene Jackson and “The Grizzled Vet” Michael McCurdy. Gene explains that, growing up in Mississippi and Alabama, he mostly knew Portland through wrestling magazines and traded VHS tapes and his knowledge was mostly limited to the Billy Jack heel turn, some random angles, and scattered footage but Rich’s hard drive opened the door to a much bigger world.The heart of the episode is the story of Buddy Rose’s tape collection. Buddy started recording Portland Wrestling in 1977, saved hundreds of tapes, and preserved footage that easily could have disappeared forever. The preservation talk is tremendous. Rich tells Gene about the old Quasar tapes, the machine he had to track down, the repairs, the mold damage, and the thrill of finally finding rare Lonnie “Moondog” Mayne footage. Look, for wrestling fans who care about territory history, this is the good stuff. It’s not just “some guy has tapes.” It’s a rescue mission for an entire piece of territory wrestling history.Basically, this is one of those conversations where every name opens another door. Buddy Rose leads to Piper. Piper leads to Don Owen. Don Owen leads to Tom Peterson. Billy Jack leads to Rip Oliver. Rip Oliver leads to Santa Claus with a crowbar. Frank Bonnema leads to the whole feel of Portland television. And before long, you realize Portland wasn’t some forgotten minor stop, it was a real, long running, talent rich territory that helped shape a lot of the wrestling people still talk about today.For fans of Portland Wrestling, Don Owen, Buddy Rose, Roddy Piper, Billy Jack Haynes, Rip Oliver, Lonnie Mayne, Frank Bonnema, Tom Peterson, Chris Colt, Len Denton, Art Barr, Scotty the Body, “Mean” Mike Miller, Dave Sierra, Ed Wiskowski, and the lost footage that keeps territory wrestling alive, this episode is required listening.Portland Wrestling may not have gotten the magazine covers.But thanks to Rich Patterson, it didn’t get erased.As mentioned on the show, if you would like to purchase one of Rich's hard drives featuring 500+ hours of Portland Wrestling, you can contact him via email at [email protected] ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

On this episode of Huge Pop Entertainment Presents…Drop the Mic, Rocky Della Serra steps into the spotlight for a wide open wrestling conversation packed with stories, personality, and the kind of behind the scenes perspective fans of old school wrestling love.This episode brings the energy of a classic wrestling talk show: honest memories, locker room style conversation, reflections on the business, and the kind of unpredictable stories that make interviews like this worth hearing from start to finish. Whether you know Rocky from his time around the wrestling scene or you’re hearing his story for the first time, this is a chance to sit back and enjoy a conversation that goes wherever the memories take it.For fans of classic wrestling interviews, road stories, personalities from the territory and independent wrestling world, and the growing lineup of shows under the Retro Wrestling Archive Podcast Network, this edition of Drop the Mic is another fun listen from Huge Pop Entertainment Presents…Because sometimes the best wrestling stories don’t come from the main event.Sometimes they come when somebody finally gets handed the mic. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

***WATCHALONG WITH ROBB & SCOTTIE AT THE LINK BELOW***https://rumble.com/v7ezhg4-rwr-wccw-podcast-ep.-10-12283-bundy-kabuki-and-the-freebird-fallout.htmlOn Episode #10 of the Retro Wrestling Re-View WCCW Podcast, Robb Helt and Scottie Wince aka “Texas Bunch” jump back into World Class Championship Wrestling for the first televised fallout after Christmas Star Wars 1982. After covering the night Terry Gordy slammed the cage door on Kerry Von Erich and lit the fuse on the Freebirds/Von Erichs war, this episode picks up on January 22, 1983 with WCCW already feeling hotter, sharper, and more historically important than anything the guys have watched so far.Right away, Robb points out that there appear to be two missing shows between Christmas Star Wars and this episode, but the TV presentation itself suggests World Class may have taken time off or skipped ahead, because Bill Mercer is still heavily recapping what happened at Reunion Arena. Either way, the story direction is clear: Kerry Von Erich has seen the footage, David Manning has opinions about Michael Hayes, Terry Gordy is already hated, and the Freebirds/Von Erichs feud is officially underway.The main story is the fallout from Kerry Von Erich vs. Ric Flair. Kerry sits down with Bill Mercer, watches the cage match footage, and explains that he doesn’t remember everything clearly after the cage door smashed him in the head. The key point is simple: in Kerry’s mind, Michael Hayes and Terry Gordy cost him the NWA World Heavyweight Title, and now the Von Erichs have a score to settle!By the end, Robb and Scottie are clearly more excited about where the podcast is headed. The work is better, the crowd is hotter, the Freebird/Von Erich story has direction, Gordy feels like a killer, and World Class is finally becoming the promotion everyone talks about when they talk about 1980s Texas wrestling.Get ready for a wild ride! ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

It’s time for a special edition “Shootin’ The Shiznit” with “Rollin’ Into Mempho.” Brian Tramel is joined by RynoJB to review Championship Wrestling from Memphis for Episode 39 in their quick RT format ! They answer the following questions about the show:-Hits?-Misses?-MVP??-What do they want to see on next week’s show?-THUMBS UP or THUMBS DOWN?They reviewed this episode !https://youtu.be/v2s8XRLuPCo?si=vTuOBc3EYXi4hPU5 ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

On Episode #117 of the Retro Wrestling Re-View USWA Podcast, the gang continues into the second week of the 1992 USWA season with the January 11th episode of USWA Championship Wrestling and this one is all about Corey Maclin flying solo, Brian Christopher finally taking the full heel plunge, Eric Embry spreading his influence all over the show, and the “International Roughnecks” a.k.a the Moondogs making Corey lose his mind on live television.The boys kick things off with some network business, new joke sponsor shirts, and a teaser of Corey Maclin absolutely coming unglued later in the show while trying to deal with Richard Lee and the Moondogs. From there, the episode jumps into the fallout from Brian Christopher’s boxing match with Tony Williams, Bart Sawyer continuing the “Bartman” energy, Jeff Jarrett and Robert Fuller taking aim at the Moondogs, and Tony Falk introducing Miss Jennifer in a segment that goes sideways almost immediately.Episode #117 feels like 1992 USWA is starting to find its direction. Brian Christopher has turned the corner, Eric Embry is suddenly everywhere…again, the Moondogs are getting more dangerous by the week, Robert Fuller is somehow working as a babyface, and Corey Maclin may need hazard pay if Richard Lee keeps bringing those “crazy fools” into the studio.REST IN PAIN indeed ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

On this episode of Rick Del Santo’s Classic Wrestling Talk, Rick sits down with Darryl Peterson, better known to wrestling fans as Maxx Payne and later Man Mountain Rock, for a wide ranging conversation about athletics, acting, amateur wrestling, Japan, Memphis, WCW, the WWF, music, and the long road from a rebellious kid in Utah to one of wrestling’s most unique heavy metal characters.Maxx starts by going all the way back to his childhood love of sports. Before wrestling, he was a football fanatic, a basketball player, a shot-putter, a swimmer, a baseball kid, and eventually a serious amateur wrestler. He talks about clashing with a high school football coach, falling in love with wrestling after first hating it, and growing up in a household where watching sports with his father helped shape the rest of his life.The strongest part of the interview may be the story of Takedown. Maxx explains that he ignored the early casting calls because he was focused on wrestling, then suddenly found himself reading for the role of Bobich. That movie didn’t just give him an acting credit it changed the direction of his life.The Japan material is another highlight. Maxx talks about training with Red Bastien, heading to Japan with Chris Benoit, living in the New Japan dojo, doing the brutal daily workouts, and learning from veterans by asking what he did wrong instead of fishing for compliments. He also tells a very funny Dick Murdoch story after slipping off the ropes in Japan, with Murdoch advising him to take two weeks off and quit.For Memphis fans, there’s some great material on how the Maxx Payne character started coming together. He talks about wanting to be the dark, heavy metal, Alice Cooper style monster of wrestling, then explains how Memphis was brutally hard but also one of the places where he truly learned the business. He gives Jerry Lawler a lot of credit, saying that working with Lawler was easy as long as you listened and knew when it was time to sell.The WCW and music discussion is fascinating, too. Maxx says the guitar element truly took off in Germany after Dave Finlay and Rip Rogers told him to make it part of the act. That success helped lead to Bill Watts bringing him into WCW, where he debuted in early 1993 and played guitar at SuperBrawl. From there, he tried to create a band made up of wrestlers, with Brad Armstrong originally planned as the singer before Brian Armstrong stepped in.The Man Mountain Rock section is blunt. Maxx says the WWF “de-rocked” him, that he should have pushed back harder creatively, and that the version of the character he wanted — black, white, skulls, heavy metal, and edge got softened into something he didn’t believe in. He also previews a documentary project using footage he shot during that period, which he says will show the behind the scenes tension from his point of view.For fans of Maxx Payne, Man Mountain Rock, Memphis Wrestling, WCW, WWF New Generation, New Japan, Chris Benoit, Jerry Lawler, Bill Watts, Red Bastien, Brad Armstrong, Brian Armstrong, and wrestlers who tried to bring something completely different to the table, this episode is loaded.Maxx Payne wasn’t just a big man with a guitar.He was an athlete, actor, wrestler, musician, filmmaker, and one of those creative wrestling minds who may have been 30 years ahead of the room he was standing in.Check out more great stuff from Rick Del Santo on his YouTube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/@TheRickDelSantoFollow him on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/theprofrickdelsanto ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

On Episode #10 of Beyond Wrestling w/Robb, Robb Helt returns to the Neutral Corner Lounge with Gene Jackson and special guest Scottie Wince of the RWR WCCW Podcast for Part Two of the deep dive into the sale of the USWA, Larry Burton, Jerry Lawler, XL Sports, Mark Selker, and the lawsuit heavy mess that helped bring down wrestling’s last true territory. After Part One ended with the merchandising problem, Part Two digs into the bigger sales pitch: Larry Burton’s three step plan and the part of the story that was never actually proven.The heart of the episode is the difference between a plan and proof. Burton’s story only works if there is real value at the end of the rainbow specifically, a WWF/Vince McMahon payday. But Robb makes the legal distinction clear: even if McMahon gave an opinion that the USWA might be worth six to eight million dollars, that is not the same thing as saying, “I will buy it for that price.”That becomes the running theme of the episode: potential is not proof. Robb explains that in litigation, potential future value can quickly turn into speculative fiction if there’s no enforceable commitment, no completed deal, and no hard evidence showing that money was actually waiting on the other side.Basically, this episode is about peeling back the legend and asking the questions that usually get skipped. Was Burton working Selker? Was Lawler & Burton working together to work Selker? Was Lawler working Burton? Did Burton every really meet with Vince McMahon? Did Burton actually believe he had found hidden syndication money? Did Jerry Jarrett see the storm coming and take the safest way out? And the most obvious question that Mark Selker apparently never asked, if the USWA really had a six to eight million dollar value, why didn’t Jerry Lawler simply sell it directly to Vince McMahon himself rather then sell to to them two million??That’s the question that hangs over the whole thing.For fans of USWA, Memphis Wrestling, Jerry Lawler, Jerry Jarrett, Larry Burton, XL Sports, Mark Selker, wrestling lawsuits, territory business, and the strange legal rabbit holes that swallowed up the final days of Memphis studio wrestling, Part Two is where the story gets even murkier. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

***WATCHALONG WITH BRANDON & GENE AT THIS LINK***https://rumble.com/v7evq76-rwr-ecw-podcast-ep.-11-61593-too-violent-for-sports-channel.htmlOn Episode #11 of the Retro Wrestling Re-View ECW Podcast, Gene Jackson and Brandon Wheeler are finally on the doorstep of Super Summer Sizzler Spectacular, and this June 15, 1993 episode of Eastern Championship Wrestling feels like the real “go home show”. After last week’s heavy Rockin’ Rebel bonus episode, the boys come into this one looking for some forward momentum and ECW actually gives them plenty to work with.The show is built around the final push for Eddie Gilbert vs. Terry Funk in the Texas Chain Match Massacre to crown the official “King of Philadelphia”, but there’s a lot more happening: Road Warrior Hawk challenging Jimmy “Superfly” Snuka for the ECW TV Title, the Suicide Blondes and Super Destroyers continuing their issue, Sandman and Rockin’ Rebel heading toward their street fight/catfight chaos, and The Dark Patriot (Doug Gilbert) makes his ECW debut stepping into the main event against the living legend, Terry Funk.The biggest strength of this episode is the Eddie Gilbert/Terry Funk build. Eddie gets multiple segments: the outdoor promo, the crown, the Texas chain demonstration, and the final attack. Funk answers with a promo that makes Philadelphia feel special, telling the fans they are “hardcore fans” before that word becomes permanently attached to ECW’s identity.The main event with Terry Funk vs. The Dark Patriot gives ECW the kind of finish it wants heading into the big show: Funk fights, Paul E. interferes, Funk goes for the mask, Eddie Gilbert hits the ring with a chair, and then the broadcast cuts away under the idea that the footage was too violent for Sports Channel! It’s a simple trick, but it does a good job making the upcoming chain match feel like something out of control.By the end, Gene and Brandon both seem encouraged. The show feels better paced, the format feels different, Stevie Wonderful is settling in on commentary, and ECW feels like it is changing fast. The early awkwardness is still there, but now you can see the pieces starting to move toward something bigger.Super Summer Sizzler is next.And Eastern Championship Wrestling finally feels like it’s heating up. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

In this powerful and deeply personal conversation, Get Your Bell Rung Pro Wrestling Podcast host KG Landry sits down with professional wrestling writer Vince Russo to discuss his book, Total Nonstop Agony: The Rise and Fall of TNA. But this is far more than a conversation about the wrestling business.Russo opens up about some of the most difficult and personal chapters of his life, including the loss of his mother and friends such as Daffney. He discusses the emotional weight of grief, how those experiences changed his perspective, and what it means to find peace after devastating loss.The conversation also turns to faith and how Russo's Christian beliefs have helped him navigate some of life's most difficult moments. He shares how his faith has given him perspective, purpose, and a different understanding of what truly matters.While Total Nonstop Agony focuses heavily on Russo's time in TNA, he explains that professional wrestling was ultimately a job for him and a means of providing for his family. He discusses his frustrations with critics and the internet wrestling community, particularly those who treat scripted entertainment as something far more serious than he believes it should be.Russo also speaks candidly about getting older, his concerns about cognitive decline and dementia because of his family history, and his determination to keep his mind active through writing. He discusses the possibility of eventually stepping away from the public eye and reflects on what he wants his life to mean beyond wrestling.Throughout the interview, KG Landry and Vince Russo connect over shared experiences and the importance of family, health, faith, and recognizing what truly matters in life.The conversation ultimately comes down to legacy. When Russo reflects on how he wants to be remembered, his answer is not about championships, television ratings, wrestling storylines, or professional accomplishments. He wants the people closest to him to remember one thing above everything else: how much he loved them.This is Vince Russo like you've rarely heard him before. Honest, emotional, reflective, and completely personal.Watch, listen, and join KG Landry and Vince Russo for a conversation that goes far beyond professional wrestling. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

On this episode of Chewin’ The Fat with Chubby Dudley, Bay Ragni sits down with ECW Original “Ironman” Tommy Cairo for a extensive, wide open conversation about old school wrestling fandom, bodybuilding, powerlifting, breaking into the business, early Eastern Championship Wrestling, Eddie Gilbert, Paul Heyman, The Sandman, the Singapore cane feud, and the real life toughness that made Cairo one of the most believable guys in early ECW.This isn’t just a “remember ECW?” interview. Tommy goes all the way back to being a kid watching Heavyweight Wrestling from Washington, D.C., falling in love with Bruno Sammartino, sneaking late-night wrestling with his grandmother, reading the magazines, riding trains and buses to shows, and becoming one of those fans who knew the buildings, the wrestlers, the aliases, and the business long before he ever stepped into a ring.The ECW material is the centerpiece, especially Cairo’s version of the Singapore cane feud with The Sandman. Cairo says Paul Heyman came into the locker room looking for two volunteers for an angle built around the recent Michael Fay caning story, warning everyone that it would involve a lot of blood and not just from the forehead. According to Cairo, the room went silent until he and Sandman looked at each other and stepped up.Cairo makes it clear that he believes that year-long program with Sandman was a major piece of ECW becoming “hardcore” before Tommy Dreamer became the face most associated with the cane. In his view, he and Sandman did the work, took the punishment, and helped prove the concept before the cane was essentially moved from his hand to Dreamer’s.The interview is also loaded with strong opinions. Cairo doesn’t hold back on Paul Heyman, saying he wasn’t a fan and accusing Paul of taking credit while changing the locker room around his own guys. He also talks about the NWA title incident with Shane Douglas, saying he felt bad for Dennis Coralluzzo and thought throwing down the belt was disrespectful and against the rules of the business.For fans of early ECW, Eastern Championship Wrestling, The Sandman, Todd Gordon, Eddie Gilbert, Paul Heyman, Little Guido, Johnny Hotbody, Jimmy Snuka, Manny Fernandez, and the rough, physical indie scene that fed into ECW’s rise, this episode is a must listen.Tommy Cairo doesn’t just tell old wrestling stories.He tells them like a man who lived every bump, every mile, every fight, and earned every scar.Subscribe on YouTube: @chubbydudleyofficialFollow on Facebook: facebook.com/ChubbyDudley ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

On Episode #20 of the RWR Power Pro Wrestling Podcast, Gene Jackson, Robb Helt, and BT return for another Saturday morning ride through 1998 Power Pro Wrestling and this week, the show is officially celebrating 20 weeks of Power Pro Wrestling from the studios of WMC-TV 5. Randy Hales is still somehow the center of the universe, the bodyguards are still hanging around, the Stacy/Brandon Baxter/Jerry Lawler drama keeps getting trashier, and BT’s 79 year old mother may have delivered the most accurate scouting report of all: “Randy Hales looks nerdy”.The biggest storyline remains Randy Hales vs. Jerry Lawler, with the Stacy/Brandon Baxter situation wrapped around it like a bad soap opera storyline that even Vince Russo might roll his eyes at. Stacey sends in a taped statement from Florida denying everything, Randy produces a postcard that somehow made it from Sanibel Island to Memphis overnight, and Lawler keeps getting more and more fed up with Randy dragging his personal life onto television.The best actual wrestling of the episode appears to be Derrick King vs. Kid Wikkid, which Gene, Robb, and BT all put over by the end. Derrick King continues to look good in the ring, Kid Wikkid keeps getting protected enough to matter.The funniest disaster of the week is the Brian Christopher vs. The Streak promo. The Streak stumbles into a line so awkward that Brian Christopher breaks on camera, which causes Corey Maclin to crack up like Mean Gene during an 1987 Ken Patera promo, and the whole thing becomes one of those Power Pro moments that may not be “good,” but it’s absolutely unforgettable.Episode #20 is still messy, still confusing, and still loaded with questionable decisions, but it also has a little bit of life to it. Derrick King looks sharp, Lawler and Randy have momentum, Corey Maclin is unintentionally hilarious, and the ending gives the guys something to enjoy. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

It’s time for a new episode of “Shootin’ The Shiznit.” Brian Tramel and Mr. Z bring you The Countdown Wrestling Podcast for their 10th Annual “Top 10Performers of G1 Climax" show!Check out our LINK OF ALL LINKS to watch the show and listen to our podcasts!https://linktr.ee/STSPOD ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

"5 Minute Time Limit" is a dynamic wrestling podcast where each guest—whether they're wrestlers, industry insiders, or fans gets exactly 5minutes to share their thoughts, stories, or hot takes. The strict time limit keeps conversations fast-paced, intense, and to the point, creating an exciting atmosphere where every second counts. Whether it's discussing major wrestling events, feuds, or behind-the-scenes stories, guests have to make their impact before the clock runs out. The format pushes for high-energy, no-fluff discussions, making it a must-listen for wrestling fans who crave concise, insightful commentary. He is joined by Jammie Ward, Scottie Wince, King Davis, Stacy, Roach, Atomic, Will Radford & Duchess of New JerseyCheck out our LINK OF ALL LINKS to watch the show and listen to our podcasts! linktr.ee/STSPOD ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

***CLICK THIS LINK TO WATCHALONG WITH THE GANG***https://rumble.com/v7eq4f6-rwr-wccw-podcast-ep.-9-122582-christmas-star-wars-82-so-it-begins.htmlOn Episode #9 of the Retro Wrestling Re-View WCCW Podcast, Robb Helt and Scottie Wince are joined by special guest Gene Jackson for one of the biggest turning points in World Class Championship Wrestling history: Christmas Star Wars 1982 from Reunion Arena in Dallas, Texas. This is the night everything changes and the night World Class truly lights the fuse on the Von Erichs vs. Fabulous Freebirds feud, one of the hottest and most influential rivalries of the territory era.The boys explain up front that this isn’t just another big holiday wrestling card. This is the show where World Class, still not even a year into being “World Class” under that name, runs its very first Star Wars spectacular and gives fans the moment that would launch the promotion into another gear. The Freebirds come in as friends of the Von Erichs, Michael Hayes is positioned as Kerry Von Erich’s special referee, Terry Gordy is brought in as the gatekeeper, and by the end of the night, Dallas wrestling history is never the same.The heart of this episode is the Kerry Von Erich vs. Ric Flair cage match. The crowd is packed in, the title is on the line, Michael Hayes was voted in by the WCCW fans to be a “special referee” inside the cage alongside David Manning, and Terry Gordy is outside the cage guarding the door. It feels like World Class has done everything possible to make fans believe Kerry finally has a fair shot at becoming NWA World Heavyweight Champion.Christmas Star Wars 1982 is one of those shows where you can feel the territory changing in real time. World Class already had the Von Erichs, the Sportatorium, the Dallas crowd, and the TV. But after this night, they have the hottest wrestling feud in the country!The Freebirds walk in as friends.They leave as the most hated men in Texas. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

 It’s time for a special edition “Shootin’ The Shiznit” with “Rollin’ Into Mempho.” Brian Tramel is joined by RynoJB to review Championship Wrestling from Memphis for Episode 36 in their quick RT format ! They answer the following questions about the show: -Hits? -Misses? -MVP?? What do they want to see on next week’s show? -THUMBS UP or THUMBS DOWN? Video Casthttps://youtu.be/XIpoWYYC2Gk?si=DM-DhAPck8y5_Pty  ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

On Episode #7 of Talkin’ Off The Top Rope, “The Grizzled Vet” Michael McCurdy welcomes longtime friend Andrea the Giant for a conversation that goes far beyond the usual wrestling interview. Michael opens the show by explaining that the mission is simple: make sure the stories never die and Andrea brings plenty of them, from professional wrestling to roller derby, broadcasting, engineering, indie road trips, and the kind of life experience you only get by saying yes to unusual opportunities.The best thing about this episode is how many lives Andrea has lived. Wrestling is a major piece of the conversation, but Michael also gives her room to talk about engineering, television, computer science, Fisher Price, roller derby, family, road life, and all the little twists and turns that eventually led her into the ring. It’s exactly the kind of interview Talkin’ Off The Top Rope is built for, not just “where did you work and who did you wrestle,” but who are you, really?Andrea’s path into wrestling is especially interesting because it didn’t happen the usual way. She wasn’t a teenager trying to break in. She was already deep into adult life, working, raising a family, doing roller derby, and then she found herself in a wrestling ring during a cross promotion. From there, she started training after derby practice, driving all over the place, learning how to bump, cut promos, work TV, and build a character from the ground up.The creation of Andrea the Giant is another highlight. She explains how her original idea came from her roller derby identity, Crystal Chaos, but the promotion already had a Chaos. Because of her size and presence, the Andrea the Giant name was suggested, and after some thought about not disrespecting Andre’s legacy, the character became her long running wrestling identity.For fans of independent wrestling, roller derby, women in wrestling, Andrea the Giant, Rumble Under the Redwoods, old school storytelling, and real conversations about the people behind the characters, this is a fun and heartfelt episode.Andrea the Giant didn’t just chase one dream.She built, skated, bumped, drove, fought, entertained, and lived a whole bunch of them.Follow the Grizzled Vet Michael McCurdy on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581684591623Follow him on "X" at @vetgrizzledYou contact him at [email protected] ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

On Episode #116 of the RWR USWA Podcast, Gene Jackson, Josh Briley, and Brian Tramel kick off Season Three and officially begin the 1992 USWA journey. After wrapping up 1991 with the year end awards, the boys jump right into January 4, 1992 and the new year wastes no time setting the table for a very different kind of USWA.The biggest story of the TV episode is the official breakup or at least the next stage of the breakup of “The New Kids”, Brian Christopher and Tony Williams. Brian doesn’t want to team with Tony, Eddie Marlin forces him to do it anyway, the match falls apart, and then Eddie books the two young partners against each other in a boxing match. Gene, Josh, and BT all get a kick out of Brian’s tantrum, and it becomes one of the first signs that Brian Christopher is starting to find the bratty heel personality that will define him in Memphis.The Moondogs are the other major focus. Their brawl with Jarrett and Fuller feels like a preview of what 1992 USWA is going to become: blood, bones, wild studio chaos, and even Jeff Jarrett swinging steel chairs like he absolutely means it. Gene points out that 1992 is going to feature a lot of Fuller, Lawler, and Jarrett getting into violent fights with the Moondogs and based on this first episode, that may not be a bad thing.Episode #116 is a fun reset point. Spirit of America, Warrior, Gravedigger, and Nate the Rat are all seemingly gone but the show still has Lawler, Jarrett, Fuller, and the familiar Memphis structure, but there’s new energy in the Moondogs feud, Brian Christopher’s character development, Koko B. Ware’s push, and the weird little systems Eddie Marlin keeps inventing to solve problems that only exist in Memphis wrestling.1992 starts here.And apparently, so does the age of “country ass Mr. Belding” (that will make sense once you catch the episode) ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

On this episode of Rick Del Santo’s Classic Wrestling Talk, Rick welcomes “Wildcat” Wendall Cooley for a tremendous territory era conversation covering his unlikely road into the business, early training in a backyard ring, Southeastern/Continental Wrestling, Mid-South, Memphis, Puerto Rico, WCW, WWF, working world champions, making real money in merchandise, and why he eventually walked away from wrestling in 1996.Cooley starts at the beginning, talking about growing up as a wrestling and roller derby fan in the 1960s and 70s, then building a ring in his cousin’s backyard before getting roughed up by retired wrestler Bad Boy Hines. After Hines passed away, Cooley continued training under Larry Pearson, eventually getting his first break on Southeastern TV, where his first studio match was against Bill Ash.The heart of the episode is Wendall’s run in Continental Championship Wrestling. He explains that when he returned home in 1986, he expected to be used mainly to help get Adrian Street over, but the feud clicked so well with the fans that everything changed. Ron Fuller eventually told him straight out: “You’re my money man.” For a wrestler only a couple of years into the business, that was a huge moment.The merchandise talk is one of the best parts of the interview. Wendall breaks down how he started showing up early with tables full of photos, shirts, keychains, and memorabilia, then made hundreds, sometimes over a thousand dollars in cash at towns like Knoxville, Birmingham, and Montgomery. Basically, before everybody had gimmick tables, Wendall figured out there was money sitting right there if you were over enough to go get it.The later career material is just as honest. Wendall talks about his short WCW run, blowing out his knee, Puerto Rico with Frankie Lancaster, a scary car wreck, and finally deciding WWF wasn’t the right road for him after he and Frankie worked the Bushwhackers but were stripped of the Heartbreakers identity for the night. By 1996, he knew he was done chasing it, took a government job, and built a life beyond wrestling.For fans of Continental Wrestling, Southeastern Championship Wrestling, Memphis, Mid South, Adrian Street, Ron Fuller, Robert Fuller, Bill Dundee, Dutch Mantell, Dirty White Boy Tony Anthony, Ric Flair, Jerry Lawler, Nick Bockwinkel, Harley Race, and real territory wrestling stories, this one is loaded.Wendall Cooley may not have had national cable behind him.But in Continental, he was the guy.Check out more great stuff from Rick Del Santo on his YouTube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/@TheRickDelSantoFollow him on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/theprofrickdelsanto ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

On Episode #9 of Beyond Wrestling w/Robb, the show takes a new path as Robb Helt is joined by Gene Jackson to step away from the interview format for a bit as they begin unpacking one of the strangest, messiest, and most misunderstood stories in late Memphis wrestling history: the sale of the USWA, the legal fight that followed, and how wrestling’s last real territory ended up tied to courtrooms in Ohio, Tennessee bankruptcy court, and Shelby County, Tennessee.This isn’t just the simple version of the story, “Jerry Lawler sold the USWA, somebody sued, and the territory died.” Robb and Gene dig into the paperwork and start laying out a much stranger picture: a proposed quick flip to Vince McMahon, a questionable merchandising deal, Larry Burton arriving from California, Mark Selker and his family’s involvement, Lawler’s role, Jerry Jarrett getting out while the getting was good, and the bigger question of what was actually being sold in the first place.The heart of Part One is the setup. Robb explains that the legal fight didn’t happen in a vacuum. Before anybody is suing anybody, there’s already confusion over assets, ad time, merchandising rights, potential revenue, and whether the USWA was actually worth what Larry Burton thought it could be worth.One of the strongest sections is the discussion of potential value versus proven value. Burton seemed to see national syndication and think there was a fortune waiting to be unlocked. But Gene and Robb point out that having a wrestling show airing in a bunch of markets in different time slots doesn’t automatically mean there’s serious money to be made there, especially if the ad time isn’t being sold properly and the promotion isn’t running live events in those markets.This episode also makes one thing clear: Jerry Jarrett may have been the smartest man in the room. As the guys frame it, Jarrett sold his piece, got out, and left the rest of the chaos to unfold after him. Everyone else seems to think they’re getting over on the others Burton, Lawler, and Selker. Meanwhile Jerry Jarrett is watching from the sidelines counting his money.For fans of USWA, Memphis Wrestling, Jerry Lawler, Jerry Jarrett, Larry Burton stories, wrestling lawsuits, territory business, and the behind the scenes mess that helped close the door on weekly studio wrestling in Memphis, this is a fascinating start to a much bigger story.Because this wasn’t just a wrestling sale.It was a legal battle royal! ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

On this episode of Get Your Bell Rung Pro Wrestling Podcast, K.G. Landry sits down with veteran wrestler David Young, a man known to fans as “The Messiah of the Spinebuster” and remembered for his runs in NWA Wildside, TNA, WCW enhancement work, Japan, independents across the country, and a career built on toughness, sacrifice, and earning respect the hard way.David talks openly about knowing from the age of five that all he ever wanted to be was a professional wrestler. From watching Mr. Wrestling II, Ric Flair, Gordon Solie, TBS wrestling, and Joe Pedicino’s marathon wrestling blocks, to breaking in at just 16 years old after helping with security at an indie show, David’s entire life was shaped around chasing the wrestling business.The strongest part of this interview is David’s honesty about the business. He doesn’t pretend wrestling was easy, fair, or always logical. He talks about injuries, politics, bad finishes, getting fired more than once, reading about his own TNA release in the sheets while he was at a TNA show, and still refusing to quit.The AJ Styles stories are a major highlight. David explains that he and AJ pushed each other in Wildside, trained together until they were blown up and throwing up, and worked the match in front of Jerry Jarrett that led to both of them becoming the first two TNA contracts. David says AJ helped him more than anyone in the business, and his respect for him comes through loud and clear.There’s also plenty of TNA talk, including the story of David and Elix Skipper being told they were going from a planned tag title win to losing quickly to Chase Stevens and Shark Boy, with Shark Boy pinning both men at the same time. David explains that it wasn’t the loss itself that bothered him, it was the fact that it didn’t make sense and didn’t help the story.The episode also gets into the damage wrestling does to the body. David talks about knee replacements, neck and back injuries, sciatica, and a nasty knee injury where Tracy Smothers immediately stepped in and took his place in the match. Still, David says he doesn’t blame wrestling for any of it, because getting hurt is part of the deal when you choose the business.By the end, this is more than a career recap. It’s David Young explaining what made him keep going: stubbornness, love for wrestling, loyalty to the people who helped him, and a refusal to ever say no when there was still something left to prove.For fans of NWA Wildside, TNA, AJ Styles, Elix Skipper, Rick Michaels, New Jack, Tracy Smothers, Dutch Mantell, Jim Cornette, and old school wrestlers who made every mile and every bump count, this is a great listen. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

On this special bonus episode of the Retro Wrestling Re-View ECW Podcast, Gene Jackson and Brandon Wheeler step away from the regular week by week 1993 ECW watchalong to address one of the darkest stories connected to early Eastern Championship Wrestling: the life, wrestling career, and tragic final act of Charles Williams, better known to wrestling fans as The Rockin’ Rebel.This is not a normal episode. Gene and Brandon make it clear from the start that this one deals with heavy subject matter: domestic abuse, threats of suicide, murder, suicide, firearms, possible neurological issues, and children being exposed to an unthinkable crime scene inside their own home. The purpose is not to sensationalize the story, but to take it out of the regular ECW reviews, address it directly, and then continue covering Rockin’ Rebel’s 1993 appearances in proper historical context without turning every match into a discussion of the crime.The wrestling portion of the episode makes one thing clear: Rockin’ Rebel was there. He was part of the Tri-State scene. He was part of early Eastern Championship Wrestling. He worked with Sandman before Sandman became the version fans remember. He had featured matches, title shots, and enough TV experience to be useful. But the guys also explain that he was a wrestler of proximity close to history, around history, sometimes standing in the ring while history was forming, but rarely the person making that history happen.The most important part of the episode, though, is Stephanie Williams. Gene and Brandon push back hard against the idea that this should simply be remembered as “an ECW wrestler had CTE and killed his wife.” Stephanie was not a footnote in Rockin’ Rebel’s story. She was a mother, sister, daughter, friend, and friend to many and someone who, according to those close to her, lived in fear long before the final tragedy.This is a heavy listen, but it’s an important one for the RWR ECW project. Rockin’ Rebel appears enough in early ECW that ignoring the ending of Charles Williams’ life would feel dishonest. At the same time, turning every 1993 Rebel match into a true crime discussion would derail the regular show. So this bonus episode lays it all out: the career, the reputation, the allegations, the possible warning signs, the crime, and most importantly, the woman whose life was taken.For fans following the RWR ECW Podcast from the beginning, this episode is an uncomfortable but necessary side chapter.Because wrestling history is not always fun and sometimes preserving it means refusing to look away. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Mr. 499, The Devious One, and One of Wrestling’s Good GuysOn this episode of Chewin’ The Fat with Chubby Dudley, Bay Ragni welcomes longtime friend Don E. Allen for a deep, funny, and surprisingly emotional conversation about wrestling, music, Tri-State Wrestling Alliance, early ECW, the Philadelphia area wrestling scene, and what it was like being one of those guys who was always there, always willing, and always ready to do whatever the show needed. Bay introduces Donnie as “Mr. 499,” “the devious one,” and one of the nicest people he ever met in wrestling, maybe too nice for the wrestling business.The heart of this episode is Donnie’s attitude toward the business. He never presents himself like he was supposed to be a main event star or a guy who got robbed of a bigger run. Instead, he understood his role: be reliable, get people over, take the bump, fill the spot, help backstage, and make sure the show was better because he was there. That mindset is exactly why he became one of those early ECW/TWA names everyone remembers fondly, even if he was often getting destroyed on television.The early ECW material is especially strong. Donnie talks about the move from TWA into Eastern Championship Wrestling, the first Arena tapings, getting thrown in there with Road Warrior Hawk, and how much it meant to him just to share a locker room and a ring with people he had watched as a fan.And yes, the Mr. 499 story comes up. Donnie explains that he was listed as 500 the first year, 499 the second, 498 the third, and then disappeared from the list with the added rib that his height was listed as 5’10”, which stuck around online for years afterward.For fans of TWA, early ECW, Don E. Allen, Chubby Dudley, Johnny Hotbody, D.C. Drake, Woman, Todd Gordon, Eddie Gilbert, Paul Heyman, Road Warrior Hawk, Stan Hansen, Ernesto Benefica, Tony Stetson, Raven, Stevie Richards, and the underappreciated guys who helped build the foundation before ECW became “Extreme,” this is a tremendous listen.Don E. Allen may have been "Mr. 499".But in this conversation, he’s absolutely first rate. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

***WATCHALONG WITH GENE & ROBB AT THIS LINK***https://rumble.com/v7duvme-rwr-continental-wrestling-podcast-ep.-13-1026-11285-full-arm-dragon-twist.htmlOn Episode #13 of the Retro Wrestling Re-View Continental Wrestling Podcast, Gene Jackson and Robb Helt are back for a double shot of Continental Championship Wrestling, covering available footage from October 26 and November 2, 1985. Since both episodes are incomplete, the boys splice them together into one watchalong not because they’re complaining, but because with old VHS territory footage, sometimes you take what you can get and thank the wrestling gods it survived at all.And this time, they’re joined by a first time Continental guest: Brandon Wheeler from the RWR ECW Podcast. That gives the episode a fresh dynamic, because Brandon is walking into Continental cold while Gene is watching the wrestling of his childhood, and Robb is there to explain why this isn’t just “Diet Memphis,” no matter how much he likes saying it.The best thing about this episode is the contrast between Gene’s nostalgia, Robb’s analysis, and Brandon’s fresh eyes. Gene knows this world. This is his childhood wrestling. Robb has become the guide who can explain why the footage matters, while still calling out the weird stuff. Brandon comes in without all that baggage, so when he sees the Nightmares, Adrian Street, Gordon Solie, The Bullet, and all the Fuller/Armstrong chaos, he’s reacting like somebody getting dropped into Southern territory wrestling for the first time. That works great for this type of podcast.By the end, Brandon gets it. Continental may not have the national mythology of Memphis, World Class, or ECW, but the TV has real matches, real heat, Gordon Solie, believable violence, bizarre promos, and enough Southern wrestling weirdness to keep everyone entertained.Episode #13 is incomplete footage, but it’s a completely good time. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

On Episode #19 of the Retro Wrestling Re-View Power Pro Wrestling Podcast, The RWR Power Pro Podcast Gang brace themselves for another Saturday morning trip through 1998 Memphis Power Pro Wrestling and this week, the boys are coming off the Randy Hales head shaving circus from Episode #18. Randy may have lost his hair, but he definitely hasn’t lost his camera time, because “the Randy Hales Show starring Randy Hales” picks up where we left off last week.The episode opens with plenty of pre-show chaos: tape preservation talk, World Class master tapes, Continental footage, Cassette Wrestling News tapes, Producer Smokey’s t-shirt situation, Production Assistant Benny trying to move the show along, and the crew somehow making it 13 minutes before actually watching Power Pro. It’s almost like they were avoiding it…….The centerpiece is the Stacey/Brandon Baxter/Randy Hales/Jerry Lawler drama. Randy comes out of the head shaving humiliation trying to expose Stacey’s past, Brandon Baxter gets pulled into it in the trashiest most “Jerry Springer” way possible, Billy Joe Travis joins the scene along with “bodyguards” in crappy Halloween Scream masks, and before long, the whole thing spills into a studio wide ambulance angle. It’s messy, inappropriate, ridiculous, and about as “Memphis TV” as it gets.Episode #19 is not exactly clean television. The ever multiplying "bodyguards” seem to be almost played for comedy with the stupid Scream masks and total ineptitude, Corey Maclin standing against the back wall with his hands in his pockets during EVERY promo almost feels like more of a troll than the a**hole in the actual troll mask who just doesn’t seem to go away, and Randy Hales is somehow still everywhere, all the time.Granted it’s not the Memphis Wrestling we grew up on….or the Memphis Wrestling we may have wanted, but in the late nineties days of the Monday Night Wars and the Jerry Springer Show, this is what “wrestling” became….for a few years at least. Let’s see where it goes. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

It’s time for a special edition “Shootin’ The Shiznit” with “Rollin’ Into Mempho.” Brian Tramel is joined by RynoJB to review Championship Wrestling from Memphis for Episode 35 in their quick RT format ! They answer the following questions about the show:-Hits?-Misses?-MVP??-What do they want to see on next week’s show?-THUMBS UP or THUMBS DOWN?They reviewed this episode !https://youtu.be/Y2Dj34ydg_o?si=uxeKr-g5Cyh8D-s2 ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

It’s time for a special edition “Shootin’ The Shiznit” with “Rollin’ Into Mempho.” Brian Tramel is joined by RynoJB to review Championship Wrestling from Memphis for Episode 34 in their quick RT format ! They answer the following questions about the show:-Hits?-Misses?-MVP??-What do they want to see on next week’s show?-THUMBS UP or THUMBS DOWN?They reviewed this episode !https://youtu.be/CiW-5J3vEkY?si=-OM29x1gORHdD4u1 ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★