WRESTLING SOUP

00:00 – Kevin Nash & Wrestling Royalties
Anthony and Joe open with a discussion about Kevin Nash’s royalty check woes, the business of wrestling merchandise, and how the TKO sale has impacted payouts for legends and stockholders.

03:30 – WWE’s Changing Audience & Business Model
The conversation shifts to WWE’s evolving business strategy: higher ticket prices, catering to wealthier audiences, and speculation about a possible Saudi buyout.

10:00 – Nick Khan, TKO Era, and Corporate Takeover
The hosts analyze Nick Khan’s influence, the TKO era, and whether WWE’s leadership is being overrun by corporate greed.

16:00 – The Future of WWE & Wrestling’s Investment Value
Debate about WWE as a long-term investment, the fate of the company under TKO, and the difference between past and present wrestling ownership.

22:00 – Monday Night Raw Recap & Production Critique
Anthony and Joe break down the latest Raw, including match pacing, production quirks, and the “Australian Street Fight” promo.

30:00 – Women’s Division: Kairi Sane, Asuka, and Bayley
A deep dive into the women’s division: Kairi Sane’s reputation for injuring opponents, Asuka’s standout performance, and Bayley’s current character direction.

40:00 – Main Event: CM Punk & LA Knight vs. The Usos
Recap and analysis of the main event, including the chemistry between Punk and LA Knight, and thoughts on the show’s overall flow.

47:00 – Closing Banter & Upcoming Content
The hosts discuss wrestling merch oddities (body pillows, towels), upcoming shows, and shoutouts to friends and other podcasts.

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00:00 – 02:15 | Opening Banter & The Saudi Takeover

Anthony and Joe open the show discussing Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in sports and entertainment, poking fun at recent high-profile purchases and the ethics of “selling out.”

02:15 – 03:45 | Call-In Chaos & The Return of the Soup Hotline

Reminiscing about the old call-in number, random callers, and plans to bring back live audience interaction.

03:45 – 06:00 | Comedy, Contracts, and the Price of Fame

A sharp, funny discussion about comedians like Bill Burr and Kevin Hart taking big-money Saudi gigs, and the moral gymnastics of the entertainment industry.

06:00 – 08:55 | Bill Burr, Anthony Cumia, and the Ethics of Friendship

A deep dive into the Bill Burr/Anthony Cumia drama, cancel culture, and the shifting lines of loyalty and morality in comedy and wrestling.

08:55 – 15:00 | John Cena’s Retirement: Hype, Ticket Prices, and WWE’s Strategy

Breaking down the upcoming John Cena retirement event, wild ticket prices, and WWE’s marketing moves. Includes a hilarious riff on what $11,500 gets you at a wrestling show.

15:00 – 22:00 | Dave & Buster’s, Human Crane Games, and Arcade Hustles

Anthony shares a story about dominating arcade games, winning prizes, and the weird world of human crane machines.

22:00 – 27:00 | TNA, Kurt Angle, and Wrestling’s Wildest Years

A nostalgic and irreverent look at TNA’s “Beautiful People” era, Kurt Angle’s drug-fueled run, and the tragic history of wrestling’s biggest stars.

27:00 – 33:00 | Generational Grief, Social Media, and Wrestling Tragedies

Reflecting on how wrestling fans process loss, the impact of social media, and the generational divide in mourning wrestling legends.

33:00 – 40:00 | Andrade’s Return, Rumors, and Wrestling’s Drug Culture

A candid discussion about Andrade’s WWE release, wellness policy violations, and the ongoing issues of drugs in wrestling.

40:00 – 50:00 | WWE’s Global Expansion, Crown Jewel, and Branding Oddities

Riffing on WWE’s international branding, the oddity of “Crown Jewel” in Australia, and the future of global wrestling events.

50:00 – 1:10:00 | Reality TV, Coaching Drama, and the Next Generation

A lively debate about WWE’s reality shows, coaching changes, and which legends should be mentoring the next crop of wrestling talent.

1:10:00 – 1:30:00 | Lacey Evans, Copyright Crusades, and Wrestling’s Internet Age

Wrapping up with a wild segment on Lacey Evans’ DMCA takedowns, the challenges of erasing your past online, and the absurdity of wrestling’s digital drama.

1:30:00 – End | Listener Shoutouts & Plugs

Listener shoutouts, plugs for Frank & Gus, and a reminder to check out Spitball Media and the Wrestling Soup Patreon!

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• (00:00:00) The LFG Screwjob: The hosts discuss Drake Moreau's controversial return to replace BJ Ray and join Team Bubba, debating whether it was a legitimate technicality or a move of charity.
• (00:08:44) Promo Battle: Anthony Luke vs. Shiloh Hill: A look at the intense, face-to-face promo leading into the first men's semi-final match.
• (00:12:48) Match Breakdown: Luke vs. Hill: The crew analyzes the stellar TV match, praising Anthony Luke's ring awareness and Shiloh's impressive offense, which The Undertaker called main-show-ready.
• (00:19:42) The Verdict on Luke: The judges choose Shiloh to advance. The hosts debate the decision and praise Anthony Luke's powerful exit promo.
• (00:24:25) Promo Battle: Nasty vs. Zena Sterling: A look at the completely one-sided promo where Nasty verbally dismantled a frozen Zena Sterling.
• (00:27:00) Match Breakdown: Nasty vs. Zena: A critical review of the match where Zena appeared lost, leading to "ghost bumps" and criticism from the coaches, while Nasty delivered on her powerhouse reputation.
• (00:34:55) Promo Battle: The Spitfires: Danny Zukowski and Serena Lyndon face off in a promo battle where Danny's intensity felt real and captivating.
• (00:39:19) Match Breakdown: Zukowski vs. Lyndon: The hosts critique the fast and sometimes sloppy pacing of the match but praise the heel work and key spots, including Serena's 450 splash into a Hell's Gate submission.
• (00:48:29) Promo Battle: Harlem vs. Drake Moreau: Analyzing the promo where Harlem calls Drake a charity case, and Drake fires back with promises of a violent victory.
• (00:52:43) Match Breakdown: Harlem vs. Drake: A deep dive into the physical, well-paced main event. The hosts are impressed with Drake's fire and vastly improved offense, including his discus lariat and chokeslam.
• (01:00:03) A Hung Jury: The judges' vote ends in a 2-2 tie, forcing a rematch in the finale. The hosts discuss Booker T's biased questioning and Harlem's surprisingly professional response.
• (01:05:00) Final Predictions: Looking ahead to the finale, the hosts debate who they want to win and who they think the company needs to win from the remaining men and women.
• (01:15:31) Outro & Plugs

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• [0:00] – Joe and Anthony open the show with banter about the Super Bowl halftime show, Bad Bunny, and pop culture reactions.
• [1:40] – Discussion about Adele, public perceptions, and the shift in halftime show performers.
• [6:00] – The conversation shifts to Monday Night Raw, with Anthony expressing excitement to discuss wrestling.
• [7:00] – Commentary on body image, public criticism of wrestlers, and the evolution of audience attitudes.
• [10:40] – In-depth analysis of the women’s division storyline, focusing on Rhea Ripley, Iyo Sky, and Asuka, including acting critiques and storytelling nuances.
• [18:00] – Anthony and Joe discuss the pacing and structure of WWE segments, with suggestions for improvement.
• [23:00] – Reflections on the complexity of current WWE storylines, character development, and audience engagement.
• [28:00] – The hosts analyze the dynamics between Cody Rhodes, Seth Rollins, and other main event figures, critiquing the storytelling and character motivations.
• [36:00] – Discussion about LA Knight, Adam Pearce, and the undercard, including thoughts on missed opportunities and WWE’s booking decisions.
• [44:00] – The episode covers the tag team division, the role of authority figures, and the evolution of certain wrestlers’ personas.
• [50:00] – Joe and Anthony reflect on the international roster, backstage influences, and the longevity of certain wrestlers in WWE.
• [56:00] – The main event is recapped, including the tornado tag match, Roman Reigns’ appearance, and the crowd’s reaction.
• [1:05:00] – Closing thoughts on the episode, including personal updates, shoutouts, and reminders to subscribe and follow the show.

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In this episode of Frank and Gus, Anthony and Joe dive deep into the 2025 PWI 500 list, offering their signature blend of humor, skepticism, and wrestling insight. From technical difficulties and behind-the-scenes banter to a scene-by-scene roast of the top 30 wrestlers, the duo pulls no punches. Expect candid takes on the state of wrestling, the legitimacy of rankings, and plenty of laughs as they dissect the highs, lows, and head-scratchers of this year’s list.

Anthony and Joe kick off with their usual rapport, streaming quirks, and Introducing the PWI 500

The hosts set the stage for the episode’s main event: a breakdown of the 2025 PWI 500 list.

Top 10 Deep Dive

A scene-by-scene review of the top 10 wrestlers, including Cody Rhodes, John Moxley, Gunther, and more. Expect sharp opinions and plenty of jokes.

AEW vs WWE: The Great Debate

Anthony and Joe debate the merits of AEW and WWE talent, questioning the logic behind the rankings and sharing personal favorites.

International Stars & Surprises

The duo reacts to the inclusion of international wrestlers, discussing the global landscape of pro wrestling and some unexpected picks.

Beyond the Top 10: 11–30

A rapid-fire rundown of the next 20 names, with commentary on who deserves their spot and who doesn’t.

Reflections on how quickly the wrestling world changes, with past stars falling and new faces rising.

Closing Thoughts & Plugs

Wrapping up with final thoughts, Patreon plugs, and a reminder to follow the show for more wrestling talk.

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Join Anthony Thomas and Joe Numbers for a full episode of wrestling news, wild stories, and real talk about life, relationships, and the wrestling business.

Timestamps / Chapters:
00:00 - Show Start & Audio Degradation
01:20 - PWI 500 Tease & Wrestling Banter
03:00 - Tariffs, Japan Imports, and Economic Rants
07:00 - Chicago Public Transit Meltdown
13:00 - Charity Scams & Real Giving
18:00 - September Wrap-Up & Green Day Tangent
21:00 - ESPN, WWE, and WrestlePalooza Review
28:00 - John Cena’s Heel Turn & Storylines
34:00 - AJ Styles Retirement Talk
38:00 - Mercedes Moné & The Belt Boys
41:00 - TNA Drama & Masha Slamovich Allegations
52:00 - Toxic Relationships in Wrestling
1:10:00 - Reflections, Forgiveness, and Moving On
1:28:00 - Wrapping Up, Plugs, and Final Thoughts
1:35:32 - End

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• [0:00] Intro & Health Updates
  • Lufisto and Jeff open the show, both under the weather but ready to discuss the episode. Lufisto jokes about being on cold medicine.
• [0:31] Movie Talk & Sore Throats
  • Jeff mentions the movie "Cobweb" and discusses remedies for sore throats, leading to some banter about painkillers.
• [1:18] Episode Setup & Points Recap
  • Lufisto recaps the competition’s current standings, highlighting Danny Sakowski’s performance and the points situation for Team Taker.
• [2:37] Team Taker’s Elimination Segment
  • The focus shifts to Team Taker’s elimination process. Drake and Shiloh are evaluated by their coach, with both reflecting on their performances and mindsets.
• [5:03] Drake vs. Shiloh Match Analysis
  • Lufisto and Jeff break down the match between Drake and Shiloh, discussing entrances, in-ring psychology, and the outcome. Both agree Drake performed better, but Shiloh advances.
• [12:25] Booker’s Team: Harlem vs. Chris
  • The discussion moves to Booker’s team, focusing on Harlem and Chris. The hosts analyze their characters, match structure, and why Harlem was chosen to advance.
• [24:00] Team Michelle: Thrill London vs. Anthony Luke
  • Lufisto and Jeff discuss the match between Thrill London and Anthony Luke, highlighting their contrasting styles and the strengths of each competitor. Anthony Luke is seen as the more finished product, but both are praised.
• [37:35] Team Bubba: BJ Ray’s Storyline & Plot Twist
  • The episode’s plot twist: BJ Ray expects a bye due to an injured teammate, but ends up facing Drake (who is brought back as a “free agent”). The segment is described as campy and “Vince McMahon-y.”
• [41:00] Bubba, Drake, and the Dudley Boys Tribute
  • Bubba, Drake, and Zena perform a Dudley Boys-style table spot on BJ Ray, with Lufisto sharing her own experience taking the “WhatsApp” move from the Dudleys.
• [44:00] Reflections on the Show’s Format & Rules
  • The hosts critique the show’s structure, the logic of replacements, and the lack of clarity in the rules, comparing it to football with alternates.
• [49:00] Next Week’s Preview & Final Thoughts
  • Lufisto previews the next episode’s matchups and expresses hope for more clarity and excitement. Both hosts share their social media and podcast plugs, wrapping up the episode.

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Joe and Anthony are back, and this week’s episode is a wild ride. Jaw-dropping ticket prices, WWE’s latest creative chaos, and why you might need a second mortgage just to see Cody Rhodes in person. Plus: Seth Rollins, Becky Lynch, and the never-ending saga of wrestling’s weirdest storylines.
00:00 – We’re Back! (And Already Complaining)
02:00 – Ticket Prices That’ll Make You Cry
13:00 – “Sorry, Kid, We Can’t Afford Wrestling Anymore”
18:00 – Seth, Becky, and Long Form Story Telling
28:00 – Cody’s Fourth Wall and Cena Flashbacks
35:00 – Is Wrestling Still for Kids? (Or Just Billionaires?)
55:00 – Women’s Wrestling: The Best Part Now?
1:05:00 – Raw Recap: The Good, The Bad, The Bird Girl
1:15:00 – Tag Teams, Factions, and Family Drama
1:22:00 – Wrapping Up & Random Nonsense

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WWE Wrestlepalooza 2025
- Brock Lesnar vs. John Cena 
- The Usos vs. The Vision
- Iyo Sky vs. Stephanie Vaquer
- Seth and Becky Rollins vs. CM and AJ Punk 
- Cody Rhodes vs Drew McIntyre 
____________________________
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00:22 - Nikki Bella & Stephanie McMahon Podcast Reactions
01:05 - WWE Storylines & WrestleMania Saudi Arabia
02:37 - AEW’s Current State & Fan Engagement
04:52 - Survivor Series, Royal Rumble, and WWE’s Seasonal Flow
07:00 - Andrade’s Release & WWE Backstage News
10:00 - MJF, Leaked Wedding Photos, and Social Media Drama
13:00 - Charlotte Flair, Paige, and Women’s Wrestling Storylines
16:00 - Naomi’s Pregnancy Controversy & Fan Reactions
19:00 - AEW vs WWE Ticket Prices & Streaming Workarounds
23:00 - Pay-Per-View Weekend: Russell Palooza & All Out
27:00 - Match Card Predictions & Fantasy Booking
32:00 - AEW Women’s Division & Tag Team Matches
36:00 - Creative Stagnation in AEW & WWE
40:00 - Final Thoughts, Patreon, and Outro

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