The Mike & JD Show

Mike is joined by Cousin Joe this week as JD is out of town, and they cover a range of timely wrestling topics, including:

• The Passing of Colonel DeBeers

Edward Wiskoski, better known as Colonel DeBeers, passed away on January 23, 2025, at age 80. Mike and Joe reflect on his storied career during the 1980s and 1990s, recalling his controversial heel work and unique persona.

• AEW’s Declining Popularity

AEW’s initial allure as the antithesis to WWE has faded, with criticisms of ex-WWE talent overload, a stale show format, and weak babyfaces. Many fans feel the company lacks direction and fails to spotlight fresh young stars, leading to frustration with the overall product.

• Britt Baker Out of the Spotlight

Despite having multiple years left on her AEW contract, Britt Baker isn’t being featured on TV. Tensions from the past MJF-Alicia Atout incident and her feud with Thunder Rosa may have contributed to her uncertain status, especially now that Mercedes Moné has become the face of AEW’s women’s division.

• Ricky Starks’ Attempted Exit

Ricky Starks reportedly asked for his AEW release but was refused by Tony Khan. Starks, who hasn’t been used on AEW TV, seems to be “frozen out” after expressing dissatisfaction. Planned storylines, including a split from Big Bill, were apparently shelved.

• Reaction to WWE’s Saturday Night’s Main Event

Mike and Joe also discuss the buzz and reception surrounding WWE’s latest Saturday Night’s Main Event. With rumors of low ratings and a lukewarm fan response, how does this iconic brand fare in the current wrestling climate?

Join us for an in-depth conversation as we dissect these developments and share perspectives on where the wrestling industry is headed next.

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Mike brings Brace for IMPACT to the World of VOW and recaps a fun Genesis show with special guests Cousin Joe & Brian Zilem. For premium content head to

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In this episode of the Mike & JD Show, Mike and JD pull back the curtain on the latest controversies and shakeups rocking the wrestling world. From Vince McMahon settling with the SEC to MLW allegedly fudging its attendance numbers, AEW fans revolting against the Death Riders storyline, Chris Jericho’s in-ring critiques, and Malakai Black’s surprise departure from AEW, there’s a lot to unpack.

Topics Covered:

• Vince McMahon Settles With SEC

VKM makes his loyalists think his case is closed when in reality: Nothing could be further from the truth.

• MLW Attendance Controversy

MLW is reportedly inflating their attendance figures. Is this a desperate move to show momentum, or common carny tactics?

• AEW Diehards Revolt

AEW loyalists are pushing back against the Death Riders story, Jericho’s recent in-ring performances, and the reliance on older talent over 50. We discuss the fans’ frustrations and how AEW might address them.

• Malakai Black Leaves AEW

Another high-profile AEW exit. Why Malakai Black’s departure is significant, and what it might mean for AEW’s booking and locker room morale.

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Mike & JD return to discuss a monumental week in pro wrestling. From Kenny Omega making a surprise return to NJPW and AEW’s big move to MAX (with “I’m So Excited” by The Pointer Sisters as its theme), to a jam-packed NJPW Wrestle Kingdom and Wrestle Dynasty weekend. Adam Copeland changes his name to “COPE,” leaving everyone scratching their heads, and RAW prepares to debut on Netflix. Here’s what you can expect:

• NJPW’s Big Weekend

Reactions to Wrestle Kingdom and Wrestle Dynasty, including Kenny Omega’s shocking return and the matches that stole the show.

• AEW on MAX

Why this move is so exciting for AEW, plus thoughts on “I’m So Excited” as the official theme.

• Adam “COPE” Copeland

The weird name change and what it might mean for his character moving forward.

• RAW’s Debut on Netflix

How WWE’s move to the streaming giant could change the game.

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#TheMikeAndJDShow #KennyOmega #AEW #MAX #NJPW #WrestleKingdom #WrestleDynasty #AdamCopeland #COPE #WWE #RawOnNetflix #ProWrestling

In this episode of the Mike & JD Show, Mike and JD are joined by Jeremy Finestone (x.com/JerFinestone), host of "Speaking of Strong Style" on Fight Game Media, to break down AEW’s Worlds End event. They also dive into the upcoming NJPW Wrestle Kingdom and Dynasty shows, offering insights, predictions, and must-see matches. Don’t miss out on expert analysis from all three hosts as they explore the future of both AEW and NJPW.

Topics:

• AEW Worlds End Reaction: Key matches, standout performances, and possible storylines shaping AEW’s trajectory.

• NJPW Wrestle Kingdom Preview: Major matchups, title defenses, and the stars who might steal the show at NJPW’s biggest event of the year.

• Dynasty Previews: What to expect from this new show and how it could fit into the broader NJPW landscape.

• Guest: Jeremy Finestone from Fight Game Media shares his expertise on New Japan Pro-Wrestling and the future of strong style wrestling.

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JD returns for a special Sunday edition with Mike, bringing his expertise as a fiction writer to analyze AEW’s storytelling hurdles. The duo also covers the success of AEW’s smaller venue strategy, the underwhelming ratings for WWE’s Saturday Night’s Main Event, and TNA’s new TV deal in Canada that could give them a major advantage over WWE and AEW in that market.

Topics:

• JD’s Fiction Writer Lens on AEW’s Storytelling

Breaking down the Death Riders storyline and pointing out the plot holes that are hurting AEW’s overall narrative.

• AEW’s Smaller Venue Success

Why AEW’s move to more intimate venues is paying off and what it means for their business model.

• WWE’s SNME Bombs in Ratings

Exploring why Saturday Night’s Main Event failed to capture an audience and what implications it has for WWE’s programming strategies.

• TNA’s New TV Deal in Canada

TNA lands a stronger Canadian broadcast partner than WWE and AEW, potentially reshaping the wrestling landscape north of the border.

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In this episode of The Mike & JD Show, Mike goes solo as JD is out at the last minute. The wrestling world is buzzing, and Mike breaks down the top stories:

• WWE’s Newest Scandal:

A recent report reveals troubling allegations against WWE’s Lee Fitting, who allegedly exhibited misconduct during his time at ESPN. According to The Athletic, Fitting objectified women, criticized physical appearances, and made crude, sexual remarks. Mike discusses the implications for WWE and how this may affect public perception moving forward.

• TNA’s Annual Exodus:

As the calendar turns, multiple TNA contracts have expired, and some wrestlers aren’t returning—some were even asked to take pay cuts. Mike explains why this talent turnover is happening, how it impacts TNA’s roster stability, and what it says about the company’s financial health and future booking plans.

• Darby Allin vs Will Ospreay Match Review:

Mike dives into the jaw-dropping Darby Allin vs Will Ospreay showdown from AEW Dynamite, asking whether this could be the best TV match of 2024 so far. He breaks down the key moments, the storytelling, and what made the match stand out in a crowded wrestling landscape.

From unsettling scandals to roster shake-ups and show-stealing matches, this episode covers the biggest news and controversies shaping pro wrestling right now.

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#WWE #TNA #AEW #WrestlingNews #DarbyAllin #WillOspreay #TheMikeAndJDShow

JD returns this week as Mike & JD dissect the latest in wrestling, including AEW’s struggles in the ratings and at the box office, the staggering dominance of WWE, and seismic shifts in talent movement. With key stats and insights, they examine what’s causing AEW’s decline and whether TNA and WWE are capitalizing on these weaknesses.

Topics Covered:

• AEW’s Business Struggles

Ratings Down Across Dynamite, Rampage, and Collision, especially in the coveted 18-34 demo.

Despite a lucrative TV deal with WBD, AEW’s declining house shows and viewer erosion spell trouble long-term.

AEW’s "cool factor" is waning as fans call out inconsistent booking and a perception of the product becoming too "WWE-lite."

• WWE’s Continued Success

Raw and SmackDown thrive across all demos, far outpacing AEW.

WWE’s Saturday Night’s Main Event revival with PPV-level matches proves the company’s ability to draw major crowds.

WWE’s star power and stable storytelling reinforce a positive perception with fans and maintain strong house show attendance.

• AEW vs. WWE in Ticket Sales

WWE’s post-Christmas SmackDown and AEW’s Worlds End PPV go head-to-head in Orlando. WWE currently leads in ticket sales.

AEW’s biggest challenge: retaining younger viewers and keeping events feeling special and must-see.

• TNA’s Bold Moves for 2025

TNA announces major PPVs in Los Angeles and New York City, aiming to expand its footprint.

Questions arise about whether TNA can fill these larger arenas and whether strong ticket sales will follow the company’s ambitions.

• Tessa Blanchard’s Surprise Return to TNA

Tessa’s comeback at Final Resolution 2024 re-energizes the women’s division and sets up high-profile feuds.

Her return adds star power and historical significance given her past World Championship win in TNA.

• Lucha Bros’ Discontent with AEW

Rey Fenix’s deleted tweets accuse AEW of neglecting talent care, fueling rumors of dissatisfaction.

Pentagon Jr. hints at a future WWE run and confirms he’s dropping the "Pentagon Jr." name due to trademark issues. Both Lucha Bros appear poised to leave AEW once their contracts expire.

All this and more as Mike & JD break down the winners, losers, and what the future holds for each promotion.

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In Episode 86 of the Mike & JD Show, Mike is joined by special guest BQ of the IMPACT Lounge (youtube.com/@negativebq) to break down the latest bombshells in pro wrestling:

• AEW vs. CM Punk Saga Continues: We examine new allegations by former AEW star Ryan Nemeth, who filed a complaint detailing harassment, threats, and management failures linked to CM Punk’s time in AEW. Hear Nemeth’s alleged timeline of harassment, backstage politicking, legal entanglements, and how AEW executives reportedly handled—or mishandled—the situation.

• TNA Going Big in 2025: After months of speculation, TNA has announced major pay-per-view events in both Los Angeles and New York City next year. Rebellion heads to the Galen Center at USC in April, and Slammiversary arrives at the UBS Arena in July. We discuss the significance of TNA’s coast-to-coast expansion, ticket sales strategies, meet & greets, and the exclusive Titanium Ticket Package perks that could redefine the fan experience.

• Impact of Controversies & Future Directions: As AEW and TNA make bold moves, what does this mean for their long-term storytelling and roster management? Will AEW address internal conflicts more transparently? Can TNA maintain momentum with marquee events and top-tier talent?

Join us as we delve into the persistent AEW vs. CM Punk narrative, TNA’s ambitious 2025 plans, and everything in between, offering insights, opinions, and predictions for wrestling’s ever-evolving landscape.

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Join Mike & JD as they break down the fallout from AEW Full Gear 2024, a night packed with jaw-dropping moments and unforgettable matches. The duo also delves into the AEW Continental Classic brackets, updates on Adam Copeland's return timeline, and the looming free agency of Pentagon Jr. Here’s what’s on tap:

AEW Full Gear Recap

Private Party retains the AEW World Tag Team Championships in a thrilling 4-way match.

MJF defends his AEW World Championship against Roderick Strong in a brutal clash.

Mercedes Moné narrowly survives Kris Statlander to keep her TBS Championship reign alive.

Jay White triumphs over Hangman Adam Page in a hard-fought bout with emotional fallout.

Kyle Fletcher scores a shocking win over Will Ospreay.

Daniel Garcia claims the TNT Championship, tapping out Jack Perry with help from Matt Menard.

Konosuke Takeshita retains the AEW International Championship against Ricochet in a show-stealer.

Bobby Lashley dominates Swerve Strickland in a physical showdown.

Jon Moxley retains the AEW World Championship against Orange Cassidy in a grueling, bloody battle.

AEW Continental Classic Brackets

Gold League: Darby Allin, Claudio Castagnoli, Will Ospreay, Ricochet, Brody King, and Juice Robinson.

Blue League: Kazuchika Okada, Kyle Fletcher, Daniel Garcia, Mark Briscoe, Shelton Benjamin, and The Beast Mortos.

AEW News & Rumors

Adam Copeland is cleared for action but won’t return until early 2025, potentially at Fight for the Fallen.

Pentagon Jr.’s AEW contract is nearing its end, sparking speculation about a jump to WWE or the indie circuit.

🔔 Don’t miss this deep dive into AEW’s future, Full Gear’s aftermath, and all the latest wrestling news!

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#AEW #FullGear #WWE #TNA #Wrestling #JonMoxley #MJF #PentagonJr #AdamCopeland #MercedesMone