Wrestlespective: A wrestling podcast

The Wrestling Album and Piledriver: Music from the massive

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Mon, 17 Jun 2013 11:47:15 +0000

The first two WWE albums, The Wrestling Album and Piledriver, are discussed by Jason Mann and Patrick Brogan of The Unemployed Historian. They talk about the alternative universe in which Hulk Hogan had a boring theme, performances at the first Slammy Awards, the times charisma overcomes a lack of singing ability and the times it doesn’t, the raw sexuality of Jimmy Hart, the many skills of Rick Derringer and Cyndi Lauper, and how girls in cars should be very afraid of Robbie Dupree. Download this episode of Wrestlespective, brought to you by GredunzaPress.com.

Halloween Havoc 1992: A coal miner’s debacle

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Mon, 20 May 2013 16:57:20 +0000

Sting vs. Jake “The Snake” Roberts at Halloween Havoc 1992 is discussed by Jason Mann and David McKinney of South Atlanta Wrestling. They talk about the promise of Roberts as a top villain, Bill Watts’ time in charge of WCW, why Jesse Ventura never badmouthed Sting like he did Hulk Hogan, spin the wheel make the deal, Cheetum the evil little person, the baffling decision to make this a coal miner’s glove match, and much more. Download this episode of Wrestlespective, brought to you by GredunzaPress.com.

WCW Slamboree 2000: David Arquette wasn’t so terrible

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 10:48:05 +0000

David Arquette vs. Jeff Jarrett vs. Diamond Dallas Page in a triple cage of doom at WCW Slamboree 2000 is discussed by Jason Mann and Bill Bicknell. They talk a lot about how putting the WCW title on “Ready to Rumble” star Arquette, considered one of the great disasters in wrestling history, comes across more than a decade later. Also discussed: Jarrett and Page as good hands who probably weren’t suited to carry main events, the improvements in production in this triple cage match over the infamous Uncensored 1996 match, the saga of the New Blood, the Millionaire’s Club, and Russo and Bischoff, and much more. Download this episode of Wrestlespective, brought to you by GredunzaPress.com. Subscribe to Wrestlespective via RSS, iTunes or Stitcher.

WWE Backlash 2003: See you at the crossroads

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 22:45:15 +0000

The Rock vs. Goldberg at WWE Backlash 2003 is discussed by Jason Mann and Joe Somar (also known as the paranormal interpreter for Katie Vick). They talk about Goldberg’s debut in WWE, the end of Rock’s short-term arc as a Hollywood villain, different ideas for how WWE could have incorporated Goldberg and other WCW stars into WWE, and how this match compares to John Cena vs. Brock Lesnar at Extreme Rules 2012. Download this episode of Wrestlespective, brought to you by GredunzaPress.com. Subscribe to Wrestlespective via RSS, iTunes or Stitcher.

AWE Night of the Legends: From out of nowhere

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Fri, 12 Apr 2013 04:09:15 +0000

The 2011 AWE Night of the Legends pay-per-view headlined by Kevin Nash vs. Ricky Morton and Terry Funk vs. Tommy Dreamer is discussed by Jason Mann and Rich Thomas of the International Object podcast. They discuss how this is the only non-WWE wrestling show on Netflix, the Nash-Morton story fueled by real-life bad blood, how Funk vs. Dreamer comes off as an artful debacle, Perry Saturn’s return to the ring after 9 years off, Fit Finlay’s continued brilliance, AWE’s spin on standard wrestling stereotypes, and much more. Download this episode of Wrestlespective, brought to you by GredunzaPress.com. Subscribe to Wrestlespective via RSS, iTunes or Stitcher.

WWE WrestleMania 28: Rocky sucks wind

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Mon, 01 Apr 2013 02:59:58 +0000

The Rock vs. John Cena at WrestleMania 28 is discussed by Jason Mann and K Sawyer Paul of International Object. They discuss looking at the saga and match with a fresh set of eyes one year later, Rock’s lack of character evolution, whether Cena could ever truly be a villain, making old moves new again, and much more. Download this episode of Wrestlespective, brought to you by GredunzaPress.com. Subscribe to Wrestlespective via RSS, iTunes or Stitcher.

No Way Out 2003: Second time in a lifetime

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Thu, 28 Mar 2013 18:48:44 +0000

The Rock vs. Hulk Hogan at No Way Out 2003 is discussed by Jason Mann and Patrick Brogan of The Unemployed Historian. They talk about trying to live up to the Rock v. Hogan classic at WrestleMania 18, Rock’s brief and brilliant 2003 renewal as a villain, why the crowd turned against Rock in the first place, and how well Hogan’s 2002-03 WWE stint holds up a decade later. Download this episode of Wrestlespective, brought to you by GredunzaPress.com. Subscribe to Wrestlespective via RSS, iTunes or Stitcher.

Wrestling at the Movies: Below the Belt

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Mon, 25 Mar 2013 02:10:35 +0000

Below The Belt, a mostly unknown 1980 drama centered around women’s wrestling, is reviewed by Jason Mann and Casey of Hammer Dialectic and The Mandible Claw. Check out the movie, which is on Netflix, and download this episode of Wrestlespective, brought to you by GredunzaPress.com. Subscribe to Wrestlespective via RSS, iTunes or Stitcher.

The great Shane McMahon debate

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Mon, 04 Mar 2013 14:37:11 +0000

The WWE career of Shane McMahon is discussed by Jason Mann and Will Pruett of ProWrestling.Net. They talk about his famous feuds with X-Pac, Vince McMahon, Kane, Big Show, Randy Orton, and DX, Shane’s penchant for jumping from high places, his good and bad points as a wrestler, and ultimately how much he mattered to WWE. They also have a lively debate about the Shane vs. Kurt Angle match at King of the Ring 2001. If you’d like to contribute to the discussion on Twitter, use the hashtag #ShaneMcMania. Download this episode of Wrestlespective, brought to you by GredunzaPress.com.

Wrestling at the Movies: Ready to Rumble

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Fri, 08 Feb 2013 18:41:06 +0000

The 2000 film “Ready to Rumble” starring David Arquette, Scott Caan, Diamond Dallas Page, Goldberg, Randy Savage and other WCW wrestlers is discussed by Jason Mann and Adam and Matt from KayfabeComedy.com. They talk about the oddness of how WCW and wrestling are portrayed in this movie, imagine a world in which Caan had been WCW champ instead of Arquette, wonder how good Joe Pantoliano would have been as a wrestling character, speculate where plot points and wrestling characters were taken from, and appreciate the oddball performances by Oliver Platt and Martin Landau in a paycheck movie. Download this episode of Wrestlespective, brought to you by GredunzaPress.com.

WCW Bash at the Beach 2000: Oops, Vince Russo did it again

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Wed, 06 Feb 2013 02:01:17 +0000

Hulk Hogan vs. Jeff Jarrett, the infamous Vince Russo promo insulting Hogan, and Jeff Jarrett vs. Booker T at WCW Bash at the Beach 2000 are discussed by Jason Mann and Rich of Calling Spots. They talk about the confusing nature of Hogan lying down for Jarrett, how well it was presented to the audience and by the commentators, what seemed real and what seemed like part of the show, Russo’s strengths and weaknesses as a character, whether Jarrett and Booker were good choices as WCW’s champions, and more. Download this episode of Wrestlespective, brought to you by GredunzaPress.com.

WWE Backlash 2001: Hitting the reset button

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Thu, 31 Jan 2013 23:09:40 +0000

Stone Cold Steve Austin & Triple H vs. The Undertaker & Kane at WWE Backlash 2001 is discussed by Jason Mann and Trey Irby. They talk about the fascinating period between WrestleMania 17 and the WCW/ECW Invasion, rising talents like the Hardys, Edge & Christian, Chris Benoit, and Chris Jericho getting cameos in main events, the intense effort it took to get Austin to be booed, the merits of putting all the titles on the line at once, whether Undertaker and Kane were good choices as Austin and Triple H’s first foils, and how this is an interesting meld of Southern-style tag and Attitude Era antics. Download this episode of Wrestlespective, brought to you by RudoReels.com and GredunzaPress.com.

ECW Guilty As Charged 2000: Beat on the brat

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Tue, 22 Jan 2013 02:29:56 +0000

Mike Awesome vs. Spike Dudley at ECW Guilty As Charged 2000 is discussed by Jason Mann and Danielle Matheson of The Wrestling Blog and With Leather. They talk about the merits of big vs. little matches, how ECW was dealing with losing top talent, the lost footage of Awesome beating up Spike’s girlfriend, how both wrestlers evolved after ECW, and Spike’s recent appearance at the TNA Impact wedding of Bully Ray and Brooke Hogan. Download this episode of Wrestlespective, brought to you by RudoReels.com and GredunzaPress.com. (Note: Unfortunately, there’s some muffled audio throughout. We’re investigating how to avoid audio problems in the future.)

WWE Royal Rumble 1990: The double clothesline heard ’round the world

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Mon, 24 Dec 2012 13:09:09 +0000

The Royal Rumble 1990 match is discussed by Jason Mann and Scott T. Holland of Irresistible Force vs. Immovable Object. They talk about the famous Ultimate Warrior vs. Hulk Hogan confrontation, whether it was a good idea for Hogan to win the Rumble, an undercard that is much better in practice than on paper, the evolution of Randy Savage’s fashion sense, the potential magic of a Rick Rude and Mr. Perfect tag team, and much more. Download this episode of Wrestlespective, sponsored by RudoReels.com and GredunzaPress.com.

WWE Survivor Series 2004: It’s not Snitsky’s fault

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 09 Dec 2012 18:47:08 +0000

Randy Orton, Chris Jericho, Chris Benoit & Maven vs. Triple H, Batista, Edge & Snitsky at WWE Survivor Series 2004 is discussed by Jason Mann and Eric Allen of the What a Maneuver!! podcast. They talk about the rushed story of Evolution turning against Orton, Eric’s great affinity for Snitsky and some of his best/worst moments, Maven’s completely ability to be forgettable, and how novel was the stipulation of each winner being GM of Raw for a week. Download this episode of Wrestlespective, brought to you by RudoReels.com and GredunzaPress.com.

Clash of the Champions 1: Part 2

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Wed, 05 Dec 2012 01:14:36 +0000

This joint two-part episode of Wrestlespective and Where The Big Boys Play looks at the first Clash of the Champions. Jason Mann and Parv talk about the Varsity Club, the WWF Wrestlefest arcade game, “Leave It to Beaver,” why the Warlord is better in 2012 than 1988, NWA-style booking of babyfaces vs. WWF-style booking, the relative merits of the fan-fake Sting and fan-fake Hogan, the life and times of the 1988 “Pet of the Year” Patty Mullen, discussion of the decision-making skills of the NWA Board of Directors, and whether Sting vs. Flair is as great as it is cracked up to be. Download this episode of Wrestlespective

Clash of the Champions 1: Part 1

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Wed, 05 Dec 2012 01:12:50 +0000

WWE No Mercy 2008: Not just a story, but a saga

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Wed, 21 Nov 2012 01:30:24 +0000

Chris Jericho vs. Shawn Michaels in a ladder match at WWE No Mercy 2008 is discussed by Jason Mann and Razor of Kick-Out!! Wrestling. They talk about the highlights of this fantastic feud, how Jericho and Michaels rate as ladder-match performers, how their career arcs and strengths as performers are oddly similar, and also about Guess, Wrangler and Jordache jeans. Download this episode of Wrestlespective, brought to you by RudoReels.com and GredunzaPress.com.

Wrestlespective Fun Club No. 1

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Thu, 01 Nov 2012 21:35:19 +0000

Jason Mann is joined by Samantha Allen, Stan Morris and Will Pruett for the debut of the Wrestlespective Fun Club. They talk about the different ways wrestling can be presented on television, discuss the bombshell news of “Star Wars: Episode 7,” share their thoughts on El Generico, Bruno Sammartino, Kassius Ohno, and the Jumping Bomb Angels, and then test their wrestling knowledge in the Wrestling Challenge. Download this episode of Wrestlespective, brought to you by RudoReels.com and GredunzaPress.com.

WCW Beach Blast 1992: It’s the new style

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Mon, 22 Oct 2012 12:54:57 +0000

The Steiner Brothers vs. Terry Gordy & Dr. Death Steve Williams at WCW Beach Blast 1992 is discussed by Jason Mann and Robert Newsome of The Atomic Elbow and Professional Wrestling. They discuss how WCW executive Bill Watts tried to overhaul WCW in his image in 1992 and the good and the bad that came from that, how this match was part of an attempt to re-educate fans to a new wrestling style, why WCW was getting back into bed with the NWA, and much more. Download this episode of Wrestlespective, brought to you by RudoReels.com and GredunzaPress.com.

UWF Beach Brawl 1991: The brawl that started nothing

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Thu, 18 Oct 2012 20:14:05 +0000

Dr. Death Steve Williams vs. Bam Bam Bigelow from UWF Beach Brawl 1991 is discussed by Jason Mann and Joe Drilling of the What A Maneuver! podcast. They go over the differences between the good UWF (Bill Watts) and the bad UWF (Herb Abrams), the eminent prestige of the UWF SportsChannel Television Championship, and the somewhat odd careers and lives of both particpants in this match. Download this episode of Wrestlespective, brought to you by RudoReels.com and GredunzaPress.com.

Chikara King of Trios 2012: A change of pace

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Mon, 15 Oct 2012 00:15:57 +0000

We get away from the corporate wrestling and take a look at September’s three-night Chikara King of Trios extravaganza. First, Jason Mann and Casey of The Hammer Dialectic talk about Night 3′s main event of UltraMantis Black, Frightmare and Hallowicked vs. The Young Bucks and Mike Bennett, the friendly atmosphere of Chikara shows, the diversity of wrestling styles presented, and the use of WWE nostalgia (including DEMOLITION). Then Jason, Brandon Stroud of With Leather, and Samantha Allen get into more highlights of the weekend, the tricky nature of presenting man vs. woman matches, advanced wrestling statistics, and why Chikara is a wrestling nerd’s paradise. They somehow spend a whole lot of time discussing television’s “Glee.” Download this episode of Wrestlespective, brought to you by RudoReels.com and InternationalObject.com.

WWE Royal Rumble 2001: Stone Cold! Stone Cold! Stone Cold! (Three times the charm)

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Thu, 11 Oct 2012 20:50:28 +0000

The 2001 WWE Royal Rumble is discussed by Jason Mann and Will Pruett of ProWrestling.Net. They talk about Stone Cold Steve Austin’s return to WWE and descent into madness, the signs that WWE’s salad days were coming to a close, Kane as a Rumble iron man, adding hardcore elements to the match, Drew Carey being one of the biggest stars in Hollywood, Undertaker’s terrible taste in music, and much more. Download this episode of Wrestlespective, brought to you by RudoReels.com and InternationalObject.com.

WWE International Incident 1996: Let Sid be Sid

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Tue, 09 Oct 2012 01:59:30 +0000

Shawn Michaels, Sid & Ahmed Johnson vs. Vader, the British Bulldog & Owen Hart is discussed by Jason Mann and Adam Jones of KayfabeComedy.com. They discuss Sid’s appeal that Jason completely does not get, the Ultimate Warrior being pulled as the third man from this match, why Camp Cornette doesn’t rate higher among stables, Vince McMahon as a commentator, and WWE totally getting outclassed by WCW at the time. Download this episode of Wrestlespective, brought to you by RudoReels.com and InternationalObject.com.

WCW Uncensored 1999: Does it have to make sense?

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Thu, 04 Oct 2012 11:52:53 +0000

Hollywood Hulk Hogan vs. Ric Flair at WCW Uncensored 1999 is discussed by Jason Mann and Joe Drilling of the What A Maneuver! podcast. They discuss the baffling storytelling and execution of the Hogan-Flair double turn, WCW still having strong points in early 1999 despite its deep flaws, and much more. Download this episode of Wrestlespective, brought to you by RudoReels.com and InternationalObject.com.

WWE No Way Out 2009: The cutting (in line) Edge

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Fri, 28 Sep 2012 03:16:28 +0000

The Elimination Chamber main event of John Cena vs. Chris Jericho vs. Rey Mysterio vs. Kane vs. Mike Knox vs. Edge at No Way Out 2009 is discussed by Jason Mann and Derek Hernandez of No Coast Bias. They discuss the tortured logic of allowing Edge to enter the match after he brutally attacked Kofi Kingston, the merits of the Elimination Chamber and whether it belongs on the road to WrestleMania, the absolute brilliance of Mysterio, Cena lasting only 2:00 in a match, and much more. Download this episode of Wrestlespective, brought to you by RudoReels.com.

WWE Survivor Series 1994: Popular Internet meme Chuck Norris is planting his feet

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Tue, 25 Sep 2012 11:03:38 +0000

Wrestlespective expands its focus to discuss the entire Survivor Series 1994, not just the main event of Yokozuna vs. Undertaker in a casket match. Jason Mann and Stan Morris talk about the ponytails of Diesel and Shawn Michaels, Bob Backlund’s seven-minute submission hold on Bret Hart, Jerry Lawler’s brilliance in a minis match, WWE giving up on Lex Luger, and how Chuck Norris rates as a special enforcer. Download this episode of Wrestlespective, brought you by RudoReels.com.

WWE Royal Rumble 1993: Bob Backlund is old, Carlos Colon is young

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Thu, 20 Sep 2012 12:55:24 +0000

The 1993 Royal Rumble match is discussed by Jason Mann and Luke Starr. They talk about Bob Backlund’s comeback and the crowd’s reaction to him, WWE’s transition away from older stars like Ric Flair and Randy Savage and toward Yokozuna and Bret Hart, Giant Gonzales’ awful caveman outfit, and much more. Download this episode of Wrestlespective, brought to you by RudoReels.com.

WWE Royal Rumble 1999: Vince McMahon’s luscious pecs

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 21:05:59 +0000

The 1999 Royal Rumble match is discussed by Jason Mann and Brian Schmid. They talk about why this Rumble is considered the worst ever, whether it deserves that reputation, rewriting the conventions of the match to suit the Steve Austin vs. Vince McMahon storyline, the staggering number of groin-based wrestlers and heel and face turns in 1999 WWE, and more. Download this episode of Wrestlespective, sponsored by RudoReels.com.

WCW Slamboree 1994: One more time around

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Thu, 30 Aug 2012 13:07:33 +0000

Sting vs. Vader from Slamboree 1994 is discussed by Jason Mann and frequent guest K Sawyer Paul of International Object. They talk about Vader’s incredible combination of precision and power, how often Sting and Vader clashed on pay-per-view, how this match serves as a nice primer for their rivalry, and plow through the history of the maligned WCW International World Championship. Download this episode of Wrestlespective, sponsored by RudoReels.com.

WWE Backlash 2000: Moment by moment

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Mon, 27 Aug 2012 02:00:28 +0000

Triple H vs. The Rock at WWE Backlash 2000 is discussed by Jason Mann and Will Pruett of ProWrestling.Net. They talk about the decision to delay the usual big babyface title win for a month, cranky Jim Ross, Steve Austin’s convenient timing as Rock’s cornerman, the overuse of the McMahons, and why this match comes off as a satisfying final chapter but has become almost totally historically insignificant. Download this episode of Wrestlespective, brought to you by RudoReels.com.

WWE/ECW One Night Stand 2006: The champ is jeered

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Wed, 22 Aug 2012 23:34:43 +0000

John Cena vs. Rob Van Dam at ECW One Night Stand 2006 is discussed by Jason Mann and Rich Thomas, co-host of the International Object podcast. They talk about the ECW revival, its success and failures in WWE, how Van Dam represents the spirit of ECW, how Edge’s involvement in the match seem cheap and arbitrary, and how this match really centers around Cena and his interaction with a crowd that hated him. Download this episode of Wrestlespective, brought to you by RudoReels.com.

Wrestling at the Movies: Kayfabe

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Thu, 16 Aug 2012 07:06:13 +0000

The wrestling mockumentary Kayfabe is discussed by Jason Mann and Mike of Monsoon Classic. They discuss how the film strikes a balance between absurdity and believability, how well it works for wrestling fans and non-wrestling fans, and how it presents the characters and the camaraderie of wrestlers. Download this episode of Wrestlespective, sponsored by RudoReels.com.

WCW WrestleWar 1992: The glory of the Dangerous Alliance

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Mon, 13 Aug 2012 20:10:02 +0000

The War Games match between Sting’s Squadron (Sting, Ricky Steamboat, Nikita Koloff, Dustin Rhodes & Barry Windham) and the Dangerous Alliance (Rick Rude, Steve Austin, Arn Anderson, Bobby Eaton & Larry Zbyszko) at WCW WrestleWar 1992 is discussed by Jason Mann and former WWE writer Andrew Goldstein. They discuss the vast potential of WCW’s roster in 1992, the super-enjoyable Dangerous Alliance story, how Madusa and Paul E. Dangerously contributed as managers, and who some of the best wrestlers were who never won a world championship. Download this episode of Wrestlespective, sponsored by RudoReels.com.

WCW Uncensored 1996: The end of Hulkamania as we knew it

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Mon, 30 Jul 2012 07:55:04 +0000

The Doomsday Cage Match featuring Hulk Hogan & Randy Savage vs. Ric Flair, Arn Anderson, Lex Luger, Kevin Sullivan, Meng, the Barbarian, Z-Gangsta, & the Ultimate Solution at WCW Uncensored 1996 is discussed by Jason Mann and Bill Bicknell. Topics discussed include the horrible reputation this match has, the excesses of Hulkamania in WCW, Michael Buffer’s weird off-night, the story of the Dungeon of Doom and the Four Horsemen feuding and aligning, and how this compares to other triple-cage matches. Download this episode of Wrestlespective, sponsored by RudoReels.com.

WWE Survivor Series 1989: The dawning of the Ultimate Era

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Thu, 26 Jul 2012 16:37:40 +0000

The Ultimate Warrior, Jim Neidhart, Marty Jannetty & Shawn Michaels vs. Andre the Giant, Bobby Heenan, Arn Anderson & Haku at Survivor Series 1989 is discussed by Jason Mann and Stan Morris. They talk about the oddity of Hulk Hogan not being in a pay-per-view main event in the late 1980s, building Warrior up to the WWE title, what if Bret Hart had been given Warrior’s push instead, how a hypothetical Michaels vs. Warrior match would have gone, how the story of trouble in the Heenan Family didn’t lead to a memorable conclusion, and Jason’s idea of a hypothetical Lethal Lottery-Survivor Series-Elimination Chamber concept pay-per-view. Download this episode of Wrestlespective, sponsored by RudoReels.com.

WCW SuperBrawl 1: Title wave of confusion

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Wed, 18 Jul 2012 21:28:42 +0000

Ric Flair vs. Tatsumi Fujinami at SuperBrawl 1 is discussed by Jason Mann and David Kincannon of Irresistible Force vs. Immovable Object. They try to clear up the muddied differences between the NWA and WCW titles at this time, whether Flair (as brilliant as he was) was the right man to be on top of WCW at this point, and much more. Download this episode of Wrestlespective, sponsored by RudoReels.com.

WWE Royal Rumble 1995: A thin collection of men

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Thu, 12 Jul 2012 02:22:53 +0000

The 1995 Royal Rumble match is discussed by Jason Mann and Luke Johnson of Wrestlefeed. They talk about how the quicker-than-ever 60-second intervals made this Rumble feel much different than any other, the lack of depth and star power beyond Shawn Michaels, Davey Boy Smith and Lex Luger, the battle of the future Kronik members, the fate of Well Dunn, and much more. Download this episode of Wrestlespective Radio, which is brought to you by RudoReels.com.

WWE Royal Rumble 1989: The Mega Powers more aggressively disagree

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Fri, 06 Jul 2012 01:50:27 +0000

The Royal Rumble 1989 match is discussed by Jason Mann and Scott T. Holland of Star of Savage and the new blog Irresistible Force vs. Immovable Object. They talk about the continuing saga and soon-to-be breakup of Randy Savage and Hulk Hogan, bask in the wonderful battle of DEMOLITION, ponder what would have been if Terry Taylor and Curt Hennig had switched characters, and analyze the seemingly odd choice of Big John Studd as the first Rumble winner. Download this episode of Wrestlespective.

Wrestling at the Movies: Fake It So Real

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Tue, 03 Jul 2012 02:43:59 +0000

The wild and wonderful wrestling documentary “Fake It So Real” is discussed by Jason Mann and David Shoemaker of Grantland. They talk about how the movie depicts the artform of pro wrestling, the different attitudes of the wrestlers portrayed, life among working-class friends in a small Southern town, the details of putting together a wrestling show, and much more. (Warning: This discussion does include spoilers, so see the movie first if that kind of thing bothers you.) Download this episode of Wrestlespective.

TNA Genesis 2006: The beginning is the end is the beginning

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Thu, 28 Jun 2012 23:09:47 +0000

Kurt Angle vs. Samoa Joe from TNA Genesis 2006 is discussed by Jason Mann and Will Pruett of ProWrestling.Net. They talk about Angle’s odd and acrimonious departure from WWE, Joe’s undefeated streak, and the amazing atmosphere of this match and the sense of hope in TNA at the time. Download this episode of Wrestlespective.

WWE Survivor Series 1988: The Mega Powers subtly disagree!

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Mon, 25 Jun 2012 12:28:43 +0000

Randy Savage, Hulk Hogan, Koko B. Ware, Hillbilly Jim & Hercules v. Haku, Ted DiBiase, Akeem, Red Rooster & Big Bossman at Survivor Series 1988 is discussed by Jason Mann and Stan Morris. They talk about the charm of the Survivor Series elimination matches, how this match continued the breakup of the Randy Savage and Hulk Hogan alliance, whether Terry Taylor’s Red Rooster was the really worst gimmick ever, the incredible ability of the Big Bossman, and much more. Download this episode of Wrestlespective.

WWE Royal Rumble 1994: Double vision

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Thu, 21 Jun 2012 21:27:48 +0000

The 1994 Royal Rumble match is discussed by Jason Mann and Chris from IVP Videos. They discuss the many surprising faces who show up in a 1994 WWE event, compare the sagas of Bret Hart and Lex Luger, praise Ted DiBiase’s one-time appearance as a WWE pay-per-view announcer, and ponder the beginning of Diesel-mania. Download this episode of Wrestlespective.

Wrestling at the Movies: Memphis Heat

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Mon, 18 Jun 2012 02:09:45 +0000

Wrestlespective expands its horizons with this look at the documentary Memphis Heat from Jason Mann and Scott Bowden of Kentucky Fried Rasslin. They discuss how the movie tells the story of Memphis wrestling, including the famous Sputnik Monroe vs. Billy Wicks feud, Monroe’s role in integrating the wrestling arena, Jerry Jarrett, Jackie Fargo, Jerry Lawler, Jimmy Hart, Andy Kaufman, the Fabulous Ones, and more. Download this episode of Wrestlespective.

TNA Victory Road 2011: Star ratings are beside the point

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Thu, 14 Jun 2012 12:28:30 +0000

The infamous Sting vs. Jeff Hardy match from TNA Victory Road 2011 is discussed by Jason Mann and Cewsh Reviews. They talk about Hardy being in no condition to perform, the lack of long-term consequences for him, the confused atmosphere, and how wrestling media covered the event. That transitions into a long discussion of their wrestling media consumption habits, what dirtsheets and blogs do well and do poorly, gossip vs. news, and much more. Download this episode of Wrestlespective.

TNA Sacrifice 2006: Winning ugly

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Fri, 08 Jun 2012 02:40:05 +0000

Christian vs. Abyss, the main event of TNA Sacrifice 2006, is discussed by Jason Mann and Sergio Hernandez. They talk about how the feud showcased the strengths and weaknesses of TNA at the time, how difficult it must be to put together a ladder match that makes sense, the merits of a spotfest, how the Unprettier name lasted so long for Christian’s finisher, and much more. Download this episode of Wrestlespective Radio.

AAA When Worlds Collide 1994: Introduce yourself

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Mon, 04 Jun 2012 10:00:41 +0000

Konnan vs. Perro Aguayo at AAA When Worlds Collide 1994 is discussed by Jason Mann and Franny from RudoReels.com. They talk about how this show — co-promoted with WCW — is a great introduction to lucha libre, the incredible and odd array of talent who appeared on it (including Rey Mysterio Jr., Eddie Guerrero, Chris Benoit, Psychosis, Tito Santana, La Parka, 2 Cold Scorpio, and Louie Spicolli), the influence lucha had on 1990s U.S. wrestling, and much more.

Download this episode of Wrestlespective. Send any feedback to @wrestlespective on Twitter.

WWE King of the Ring 1993: Hail to the Hitman

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Thu, 31 May 2012 20:57:40 +0000

Bam Bam Bigelow vs. Bret Hart, the finals of the King of the Ring 1993 tournament, is discussed by Jason Mann and Adam Jones of Kayfabe Comedy. They talk about how WWE changed directions a lot of times in 1993, rebuilding Bret Hart after his WrestleMania 9 loss, why Bigelow wasn’t in more WWE main events, and more.

Enjoy this episode of Wrestlespective. Comments are greatly appreciated @wrestlespective on Twitter.

WWE Judgment Day and One Night Stand 2007: Kind of a big deal

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Wed, 30 May 2012 00:20:34 +0000

John Cena vs. The Great Khali at Judgment Day 2007 and One Night Stand 2007 are discussed by Jason Mann and Trey Irby. That’s right: Two matches in one podcast. And they are better than you’d think. Jason and Trey compare parts of this feud to both Andre the Giant vs. Hulk Hogan and Brock Lesnar vs. John Cena, discuss the merits of Khali as a professional wrestler, and consider Cena’s abilities as a strategist.

Download this episode of Wrestlespective Radio. Comments can be made to @wrestlespective on Twitter.

WCW/New Japan Supershow 1991: Culture shock

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Tue, 08 May 2012 21:07:29 +0000

Ric Flair vs. Tatsumi Fujinami at the WCW/New Japan Supershow 1991 is discussed by Jason Mann and Cewsh of Cewsh Reviews. They talk about the distinctive Tokyo Dome atmosphere, the muddled history of the NWA and WCW world titles, differences between wrestling in the U.S. and Japan, and much more.

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WWE WrestleMania 27: The Rock says a lot of things

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Thu, 29 Mar 2012 21:36:46 +0000

The Miz vs. John Cena at WrestleMania 27 is discussed by Jason Mann and K Sawyer Paul of International Object. After some jokes about what a mat classic this is, they talk about what went wrong and what right in their feud and this match, the Rock’s involvement and how his return shook up WWE, the tone of Miz’s and Cena’s entrances and what they said about their characters, some about the Cena-Rock feud heading into WrestleMania 28, and much more.

Download and enjoy this episode of the Wrestlespective podcast. If you enjoy it, then please consider subscribing to Wrestlespective on iTunes.

WCW Greed 2001: The end of the road

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Tue, 27 Mar 2012 03:57:59 +0000

The last WCW pay-per-view main event, Scott Steiner v. Dallas Page at Greed 2001, is discussed by Jason Mann and Sergio Hernandez of Cageside Seats. They talk about Steiner’s seeming mental instability, the Magnificent Seven, fans discovering Page might not be appealing, whether a fan in the crowd was Paul London, what the plans were for WCW before Nitro was canceled, and a little bit about why the invasion in WWE failed.

Download this episode of Wrestlespective. And pour one out for good old WCW.

WWE Royal Rumble 1991: Highly American

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Tue, 20 Mar 2012 01:19:58 +0000

The 1991 Royal Rumble match is discussed by Jason Mann and Scott T. Holland of Star of Savage in this marathon show. They discuss what was going on with many of the cast of characters in the Rumble, including “The Model” Rick Martel, Mr. Perfect, Earthquake, Bret Hart, Saba Simba, Jake Roberts, Davey Boy Smith, Kerry Von Erich, The Undertaker, Jimmy Snuka and many more. They also go into this show built up the mediocre Hulk Hogan v. Sgt. Slaughter feud and the outstanding Randy Savage v. Ultimate Warrior feud.

Download this episode of Wrestlespective. If you had more patience, then you wouldn’t be waiting.

WWE Survivor Series 1993: America v. Japan, Finland, Canada, and … Hawaii

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sat, 10 Mar 2012 16:57:57 +0000

The Survivor Series 1993 main event of the All-Americans (Lex Luger, Undertaker, Rick Steiner & Scott Steiner) battling the Foreign Fanatics (Yokozuna, Crush, Jacques Rougeau & Ludvig Borga) is discussed by Jason Mann and Ben Pasco of It’s Raining Meng. They discuss Lex Luger and his dull family, the Undertaker’s track record of patriotism, Yokozuna’s murderous past, Ludvig Borga’s surprising competence, Jay Leno’s awfulness, and more.

Download this episode of Wrestlespective. And decide for yourself whether Hawaii is really part of the United States.

ECW Hardcore Heaven 2000: The Impact Players collide

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Thu, 08 Mar 2012 00:42:16 +0000

Justin Credible v. Lance Storm at ECW Hardcore Heaven 2000 is discussed by Jason Mann and Joe Drilling. They talk about the merits of Credible’s reign as champion in the last year of ECW (not to mention the merits of his jorts and tights combo), Storm’s strong run in 2000 in ECW and WCW, Tommy Dreamer’s brutal attack on Francine, past and current misogyny in wrestling, and much more.

Download this episode of Wrestlespective Radio. And check out Joe’s new wrestling podcast, What a Maneuver!, which looks back at every week of the WCW Nitro v. WWF Raw Monday Night War in 1996.

WCW Fall Brawl 1994: A masterpiece in a time of mediocrity

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Mon, 05 Mar 2012 12:32:10 +0000

The War Games match of Dusty Rhodes, Dustin Rhodes, Brian Knobbs & Jerry Sags v. Terry Funk, Arn Anderson, Bunkhouse Buck & Col. Robert Parker at Fall Brawl 1994 is discussed by Jason Mann and Dylan Hales. They talk about what a tremendous feud and match this was in what is considered a down period for WCW, why it might be overlooked among the great War Games matches, why Terry Funk is the greatest, arguments in favor of Dustin Rhodes being the best U.S. professional wrestler in 1994, the greatest Dusty Rhodes promo you’ll ever see, and much more. For more from Dylan, check out the Wrestling Culture podcast and ProWrestlingOnly.com.

Download this episode of Wrestlespective. And seal it with a hug and a kiss.

ECW Guilty As Charged 1999: The weight of the crown

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sat, 03 Mar 2012 17:11:05 +0000

Shane Douglas v. Taz at ECW Guilty As Charged 1999 is discussed by Jason Mann and Tom Breihan of The Classical and Stereogum. They talk about whether ECW’s myth matches up to reality, Douglas as a weary villain, comparisons between the character of the Franchise and Triple H, Taz and others in ECW succeeding despite their limitations, and much more. Tom also discusses writing about and meeting Colt Cabana and CM Punk (who has a very nice condo).

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WWE No Way Out 2002: (Back in) Black days

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sat, 25 Feb 2012 16:44:50 +0000

Chris Jericho v. Stone Cold Steve Austin at No Way Out 2002 is discussed by Jason Mann and Joe Drilling. They talk about the strange tone of the New World Order’s WWE debut, the odd first interactions of Hulk Hogan, Kevin Nash and Scott Hall with Austin and The Rock, how Jericho was often an afterthought, Mr. Perfect’s drunkenness, how this match had so many chops, Austin’s struggles in 2002, the many failures of the NWO, and more.

Download this episode of Wrestlespective Radio. And don’t spend too much time trying to make sense of 2002. It isn’t worth it.

WCW Halloween Havoc 1998: Yes, Goldberg was pretty damn good

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 01:57:49 +0000

Goldberg v. Diamond Dallas Page from Halloween Havoc 1998 is discussed by Jason Mann and Thomas Holzerman. They talk about whether Goldberg should be held in higher esteem, how he was underused in WCW main events, the merits of Page’s diamond cutter v. Randy Orton’s RKO, and much more.

Download this episode of Wrestlespective Radio. And if you leave a comment on iTunes, any topic you want will be discussed in an upcoming podcast.

WWE Survivor Series 2011: It feels like the first time, for the last time

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 21:28:30 +0000

The Rock & John Cena v. The Miz & R-Truth at Survivor Series 2011 is discussed by Jason Mann and Alex Torres of Failraiser. They talk about the strengths and weakness of the Rock-Cena story in 2011, how Rock and Cena have each been insufferable louses at times, how fun the Awesome Truth were together, and Alex’s experiences attending this show in person.

Download this episode of Wrestlespective Radio. Do it for the children.

WWE Survivor Series 2002: Chamber amazement

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 04:45:35 +0000

The first Elimination Chamber match — Triple H v. Shawn Michaels v. Chris Jericho v. Kane v. Rob Van Dam v. Booker T — at Survivor Series 2002 is discussed by Jason Mann and Will Pruett of ProWrestling.Net. They talk about all the many things that went wrong during the match and why it still ended up being brilliant, Shawn Michaels’ hideous brown tights, how nearly everyone’s stories intersected in this match, and how brilliant and awful WWE could be in 2002.

Download this episode of Wrestlespective Radio. And please avoid using the words “I need” when ordering fast food.

TNA Destination X 2011: Bringing X-y back

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 16:39:01 +0000

A.J. Styles v. Christopher Daniels at Destination X 2011 is discussed by Jason Mann and Alex Torres of Failraiser. They talk about the long history of Styles and Daniels, what the X Division meant to TNA, how it evolved from the WCW cruiserweight division, how this show compares to a nostalgia show like ECW One Night Stand, and more.

Download this episode of Wrestlespective Radio. Also, remember to fight the power.

WCW Fall Brawl 1998: When there’s smoke, there’s Warrior

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 01:34:42 +0000

The War Games match of Team WCW (Warrior, Roddy Piper & Dallas Page) v. Team Wolfpac (Kevin Nash, Sting & Lex Luger) v. Team Hollywood (Hulk Hogan, Bret Hart & Stevie Ray) at WCW Fall Brawl 1998 is discussed by Jason Mann and Will Pruett of ProWrestling.Net. They chat about Warrior’s weird run in WCW, how this match might have been regarded differently if it wasn’t called War Games, Bret Hart’s character inconsistency in WCW, and the unbelievable lost best-buddies potential of Hulk Hogan and Stevie Ray.

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WCW Starrcade 2000: Gibberish is the language we speak

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 16:26:52 +0000

Here marks the end of Starrcade: It’s Scott Steiner v. Sid from Starrcade 2000. Jason Mann and Joe Drilling talk about both wrestlers’ penchant for unintentional wrestling comedy, how far WCW had fallen by the this point, the possibly ironic over-the-top announcing from Tony Schiavone and company, and much more.

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WCW Starrcade 1999: The debacle, part 3

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 02:08:19 +0000

Bret Hart v. Goldberg at Starrcade 1999 is discussed by Jason Mann and Razor. They talk about Hart’s ups and downs in WCW, Goldberg’s lost 1999, how recycling the Montreal screwjob and creating a new NWO in consecutive nights might not have been the best idea, and much more.

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WCW Starrcade 1998: The debacle, part 2

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 15:44:35 +0000

Goldberg v. Kevin Nash at Starrcade 1998 is discussed by Jason Mann and K Sawyer Paul. They talk about Nash’s contrarian nature, how Goldberg’s first loss should have been handled, whether the Fingerpoke of Doom was really as destructive to WCW as is generally thought, and much more.

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WCW Starrcade 1997: The debacle, part 1

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 22:36:57 +0000

Hulk Hogan v. Sting at Starrcade 1997 is discussed by Jason Mann and K Sawyer Paul. They talk about the epic buildup and WCW v. NWO storyline, how big this match really felt in 1997, and how it all inevitably fell short.

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WCW Starrcade 1996: The best old man fight

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 01:55:46 +0000

Hollywood Hulk Hogan v. Roddy Piper from Starrcade 1996 is discussed by Jason Mann and Joe Drilling. It’s a surprisingly great match, and they discuss reasons why it wasn’t considered great, the ups and downs of the NWO story, and the admittedly ridiculous lack of announcement that it was a non-title match.

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WCW Starrcade 1995: Flair’s last stand

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 00:58:32 +0000

Randy Savage v. Ric Flair at Starrcade 1995 is discussed by Jason Mann and Razor. They talk about the great Savage-Flair chemistry, the odd U.S. v. Japan concept of this show, the massive unlikability of Jimmy Hart, possible nicknames for Doug Dillinger, and dream matches that would have been possible but did not happen in WCW in the late 1990s.

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WCW Starrcade 1994: Hogan battles old what’s his name

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 19:41:06 +0000

Hulk Hogan v. The Butcher (Brutus Beefcake) from Starrcade 1994 is discussed by Jason Mann and Robert Newsome. They talk about how Hogan’s arrival transformed WCW, the tremendousness of a bitter Bobby Heenan, and whether Beefcake was really ever any good.

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WCW Starrcade 1993: The restoration

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 17:10:11 +0000

Vader v. Ric Flair from Starrcade 1993 is discussed by Jason Mann and Bill Baconhill. They discuss Flair’s return to prominence after some time on the sideline, the ethics of loving Vader despite his reputation for hurting people, and the development of the talent that fueled the late 1990s wrestling boom.

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WCW Starrcades 1991 and 1992: Battlebowling

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 11 Dec 2011 00:43:28 +0000

The Battlebowls at Starrcades 1991 and 1992 are discussed by Jason Mann and K Sawyer Paul of International Object in this marathon episode. They discuss the merits and flaws of the Battlebowl concept, how Starrcade often moved away from being WCW’s biggest show, how Sting did a poor job of making friends, the greatness of Rick Rude, thoughts on Vader, Barry Windham, Great Muta, Lex Luger, and much more.

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WCW Starrcade 1990: Magic tricks aren’t impressive

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 16:04:42 +0000

Sting v. The Black Scorpion at Starrcade 1990 is discussed by Jason Mann and Brandon Stroud of With Leather. They talk about their mutual love for Bob Caudle, Sting as the world’s biggest sucker, how few endings fans really get in wrestling, the differences between the Black Scorpion’s and the Undertaker’s magic tricks, what happens when a child loses his belief in wrestling, discovering they both wrote for the same wrestling website in the late 1990s, Ric Flair having to wrestle a match without using his signature moves, and much more.

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WCW Starrcade 1989: This time it isn’t personal

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 14:52:42 +0000

Ric Flair v. Sting at Starrcade 1989 is discussed by Jason Mann and Scott Bowden of Kentucky Fried Rasslin. They discuss the relative strengths and weaknesses of the iron man concept, how WCW could have better used The Great Muta, Flair’s booking, and the great WCW roster of the time, including the Steiners, the Road Warriors, Doom, the Skyscrapers, the Midnight Express, Cactus Jack, Tommy Rich, Eddie Gilbert, Terry Funk, and more.

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WCW Starrcade 1988: Lex loses the big one

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Nov 2011 14:53:39 +0000

Ric Flair v. Lex Luger for the NWA World Heavyweight Championship at Starrcade 1988 is discussed by Jason Mann and Robert Newsome of Professional Wrestling. They talk about Flair’s superhuman ability to make even a limited opponent look good, the merits of Luger and Sting, the passion of Southern wrestling crowds, the corporate Horsemen, and much more.

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WCW Starrcade 1987: Harder than hell

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 13:42:05 +0000

Ron Garvin v. Ric Flair for the NWA World Heavyweight Championship at Starrcade 1987 is discussed by Jason Mann and the Masked Tweeter. They talk about the fearsome chops and slaps Garvin and Flair exchanged, the oddness of Garvin’s title reign, how Flair almost came off as heroic during the match, and also a bit about the Garvins v. Rougeaus classic feud from Montreal in 1985.

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WCW Starrcade 1986: All hail our Russian hero

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Wed, 28 Sep 2011 05:19:47 +0000

Ric Flair v. Nikita Koloff at Starrcade 1986 is discussed by Jason Mann and Chris Shore of ProWrestling.Net. They talk about whether wrestling was ahead of the times with a Soviet character as a hero, the classic Koloff v. Magnum T.A. feud, the continual screwy finishes at big NWA shows, if it’s weird that Flair never fought specifically for America, and much more. Also: check out Chris’ “The Following Contest” novel series.

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WCW Starrcade 1985: This time it’s personal

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 05:53:06 +0000

Ric Flair v. Dusty Rhodes at Starrcade 1985 is discussed by Jason Mann and Scott Bowden of Kentucky Fried Rasslin. They talk about the contrasts between Flair and Rhodes, the rise of the Horsemen, Jim Crockett Promotions’ successes and failures, the massive changes in the NWA and the wrestling world, and much more.

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WWE SummerSlam 2010: This Nexus threat was overstated somewhat

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sat, 13 Aug 2011 12:04:49 +0000

John Cena, Bret Hart, Chris Jericho, Edge, R-Truth, John Morrison, & Daniel Bryan v. Wade Barrett, Justin Gabriel, Heath Slater, Skip Sheffield, David Otunga, Darren Young & Michael Tarver at SummerSlam 2010 is discussed by Jason Mann and Trey Irby of Wrestling Theory.

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WWE SummerSlam 2009: Jump for your love

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Fri, 12 Aug 2011 05:26:13 +0000

Jeff Hardy v. CM Punk in a TLC match is reviewed by Jason Mann and 2ndCitySaint in this replay of their 4/18/11 podcast.

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WWE SummerSlam 2008: Epic conclusion

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Thu, 11 Aug 2011 12:23:18 +0000

The Undertaker v. Edge in a Hell in a Cell is discussed by Jason Mann and Trey Irby of Wrestling Theory. This is the only match in WWE history to ever headline both a WrestleMania and a SummerSlam.

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WWE SummerSlam 2007: Cena v. Orton

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Wed, 10 Aug 2011 12:12:50 +0000

John Cena v. Randy Orton at SummerSlam 2007 is discussed by Jason Mann and Razor of Kick-Out!! Wrestling. They also talk about the difference between a good headlock and a bad headlock.

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SummerSlam’s Main Events: Edge v. Cena (2006)

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Tue, 09 Aug 2011 12:57:26 +0000

Edge v. John Cena at SummerSlam 2006 is discussed by Jason Mann and first-time guest and Edge super-fan Rhiannamator, who also talks about her upcoming trip to the 2011 show.

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SummerSlam’s Main Events: Hogan v. Michaels (2005)

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Mon, 08 Aug 2011 12:09:30 +0000

Hulk Hogan v. Shawn Michaels from SummerSlam 2005 is discussed by Jason Mann and first-time guest Dre from the Old School Wrestling Podcast. With these two egomaniacs colliding, who knows what could happen? And the match is pretty exciting, too.

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SummerSlam’s Main Events: Benoit v. Orton (2004)

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 07 Aug 2011 12:00:10 +0000

Chris Benoit v. Randy Orton at SummerSlam 2004 is reviewed by Jason Mann and K Sawyer Paul of International Object.

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SummerSlam’s Main Events: Elimination Chamber (2003)

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sat, 06 Aug 2011 04:10:37 +0000

The Elimination Chamber main event of Triple H v. Goldberg v. Shawn Michaels v. Chris Jericho v. Kevin Nash v. Randy Orton from SummerSlam 2003 is discussed by Jason Mann and Don Owens of Future Endeavors.

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SummerSlam’s Main Events: Rock v. Lesnar (2002)

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Fri, 05 Aug 2011 03:51:28 +0000

The Rock v. Brock Lesnar from SummerSlam 2002 is discussed by Jason Mann and Josh Hachat. Check out their new podcast, the Old School NBA Show.

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SummerSlam’s Main Events: Booker T v. Rock (2001)

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Fri, 05 Aug 2011 03:43:02 +0000

The Rock v. Booker T from SummerSlam 2001 is reviewed by Jason Mann and Thomas Holzerman of The Wrestling Blog. They also discussion the highs and lows of the Invasion storyline and the general weirdness of 2001 in wrestling.

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SummerSlam’s Main Events: Rock v. Triple H v. Angle (2000)

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Wed, 03 Aug 2011 11:04:20 +0000

The Rock v. Triple H v. Kurt Angle from SummerSlam 2000 is discussed by Jason Mann and first-time guest Joe Drilling of On the Stick. This is also the 100th episode of Wrestlespective Radio, but it really doesn’t feel like any more than 93.

Download this episode of Wrestlespective Radio (right click and save link as). If you like what you hear, search for Wrestlespective on iTunes and take a moment to leave a rating and some feedback.

SummerSlam’s Main Events: Austin v. Triple H v. Mankind (1999)

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Tue, 02 Aug 2011 15:42:25 +0000

Stone Cold Steve Austin v. Triple H v. Mankind (with special referee Jesse Ventura) at SummerSlam 1999 is discussed by Jason Mann and Seth Roy.

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SummerSlam’s Main Events: Austin v. Undertaker (1998)

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Mon, 01 Aug 2011 05:34:32 +0000

Stone Cold Steve Austin v. The Undertaker at SummerSlam 1998 is discussed by Jason Mann and Razor of Kick-Out!! Wrestling. Join them as they take a trip on the Highway to Hell.

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SummerSlam’s Main Events: Undertaker v. Hart (1997)

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 31 Jul 2011 16:11:35 +0000

The Undertaker v. Bret Hart (with special guest referee Shawn Michaels) from SummerSlam 1997 is discussed by Jason Mann and K Sawyer Paul.

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SummerSlam’s Main Events: Michaels v. Vader (1996)

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sat, 30 Jul 2011 12:59:55 +0000

Shawn Michaels v. Vader at SummerSlam 1996 is discussed by Jason Mann and Mitch from PizzaBodySlam. They are still waiting for Vader to have his chance at a rematch.

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SummerSlam’s Main Events: Diesel v. Mabel (1995)

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Fri, 29 Jul 2011 13:26:12 +0000

Diesel v. King Mabel from SummerSlam 1995 is discussed by Jason Mann and K Sawyer Paul of International Object. Somehow, they end up talking about Hulk Hogan as well.

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Summerslam’s Main Events: Undertaker v. Undertaker (1994)

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Thu, 28 Jul 2011 13:26:46 +0000

Real Undertaker v. Fake Undertaker at SummerSlam 1994 is discussed by Jason Mann and K Sawyer Paul of International Object. Was the silent crowd in awe as Vince McMahon suggests or were they just bored?

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Summerslam’s Main Events: Yokozuna v. Luger (1993)

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Wed, 27 Jul 2011 09:54:42 +0000

Yokozuna v. Lex Luger is dissected by Jason Mann and Bill Baconhill of The Goozle. They also discuss ways Luger could have been less of a disappointment.

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SummerSlam’s Main Events: Hart v. Bulldog (1992)

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 15:21:14 +0000

Bret Hart v. the British Bulldog from SummerSlam 1992 is reviewed by Jason Mann and K Sawyer Paul. Is it the greatest match in WWE history? Download this episode of Wrestlespective Radio (right click and save link as)

Summerslam’s Main Events: Hogan & Warrior v. Slaughter, Sheik & Adnan (1991)

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Mon, 25 Jul 2011 06:18:26 +0000

Hulk Hogan & Ultimate Warrior v. Sgt. Slaughter, Col. Mustafa (Iron Sheik) & Gen. Adnan at SummerSlam 1991 is reviewed by Jason Mann and K Sawyer Paul.

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SummerSlam’s Main Events: Warrior v. Rude (1990)

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 24 Jul 2011 10:34:41 +0000

The Ultimate Warrior v. Rick Rude steel cage match at SummerSlam 1990 is reviewed by Jason Mann and Geno Mrosko of MMA Mania. Also discussed are the limitations of the Warrior character and why fans might not have connected with him as deeply as they did with Hulk Hogan. And many other asides.

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Summerslam’s Main Events: Hogan & Beefcake v. Savage & Zeus (1989)

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sat, 23 Jul 2011 19:56:56 +0000

Hulk Hogan & Brutus Beefcake v. Randy Savage & Zeus at SummerSlam 1989 is reviewed by Jason Mann and David Buckler of Diva Dirt.

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Monday Night War, Part 6: Caged wisdom

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sat, 23 Jul 2011 13:02:26 +0000

The Monday Night War series is back! Jason Mann and Josh Hachat discuss Hulk Hogan v. The Giant in a steel cage at SuperBrawl 6, Bret Hart v. Diesel in a steel cage at In Your House 6, and the other main happenings on Raw and Nitro in February 1996.

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Money in the Bank 2011: Punk rocks

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sat, 23 Jul 2011 12:51:13 +0000

Jason Mann and Don Owens of Future Endeavors discuss WWE Money in the Bank 2011, whether it really is the greatest pay-per-view of all-time, the classic CM Punk v. John Cena match, Punk’s groundbreaking story, Triple H as the new boss, Vince McMahon in tears, how to end the Christian v. Randy Orton feud, the two Money in the Bank matches, and much more.

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Capitol Punishment 2011: Telling the Truth

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sat, 25 Jun 2011 05:20:02 +0000

Jason Mann and Don Owens of Future Endeavors review WWE’s Capitol Punishment 2011. They discuss R-Truth’s insanity, how it fit into his match with John Cena, strong efforts again from Christian and Randy Orton and CM Punk and Rey Mysterio, creative storytelling in The Miz v. Alex Riley and Alberto Del Rio v. Big Show, and much more.

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What the world is watching

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Wed, 22 Jun 2011 19:45:37 +0000

Jason Mann talks to Graham Cawthon of The History of WWE about some of their favorite times in wrestling, discovering things of interest in match results, the challenge of keeping up with everything, and much more.

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Wrestling, the Internet and everything with Joey Image

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sat, 18 Jun 2011 13:33:18 +0000

Jason Mann talks with Joey Image about his life as an independent wrestler, colorful characters, the good and bad of the Internet’s influence on pro wrestling, getting over on Twitter, how wrestlers and fans treat each other, and much more.

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Macho’s Main Events: Slamboree 1995

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Mon, 06 Jun 2011 04:13:01 +0000

Discussing Hulk Hogan & Randy Savage v. Vader & Ric Flair at WCW Slamboree 1995 are Jason Mann and Bill Baconhill of The Baconatrix. They also discuss a lot of the highs and lows of WCW in the mid-1990s. Note: Unfortunately, there are some unavoidable sound-quality problems with this episode, but we hope we’ve made it listenable.

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Macho’s Main Events: SummerSlam 1988

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Tue, 31 May 2011 14:31:16 +0000

Jason Mann and Thomas Holzerman discuss Hulk Hogan & Randy Savage (the Mega Powers) v. Ted DiBiase (Sr.) & Andre the Giant (the Mega Bucks) at SummerSlam 1988. Topics discussed include the merits of Jesse Ventura as a special referee, the similarities between DiBiase and his son, the development of the Mega Powers’ saga, Elizabeth using her sex appeal for the first time, and much more.

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Over the Limit 2011: Something old, something new

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Thu, 26 May 2011 17:50:35 +0000

WWE Over The Limit 2011 gets reviewed by Jason Mann and Don Owens in this here podcast. Jason expresses shock at how much he liked Miz-John Cena I quit match; Don laments the return of SuperCena. They also discuss the fantastic Orton-Christian match, the rise of R-Truth, the end of Jerry Lawler v. Michael Cole, Sin Cara’s flippiness, Kharma and the limits of a monster villain, the legacy of Macho Man Randy Savage and more

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An extra crispy perspective with Scott Bowden

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Fri, 13 May 2011 17:34:45 +0000

Scott Bowden of Kentucky Fried Rasslin is this week’s guest. He talks to Jason Mann about growing up a fan of Memphis wrestling and Jerry Lawler, the formative summer of 1977, other territories in the 1980s, living every fan’s dream as a manager in the mid-1990s, the Lawler-Michael Cole feud, Andy Kaufman and much more.

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Extreme Rules 2011: Christian, your time has come (till the spoilers ruin it all)

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Thu, 05 May 2011 06:38:57 +0000

Jason Mann and Don Owens recap the Extreme Rules pay-per-view and talk about Christian’s big win, the shocking Smackdown spoilers, the passionate fan reaction, John Cena as champion again, and much more.Download this episode of Wrestlespective Radio (right click and save link as).

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WrestleMania 27: It’s The Rock’s world, and we’re just living in it

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Wed, 06 Apr 2011 06:39:54 +0000

Jason Mann and Don Owens of Future Endeavors discuss what was good and what was not so good about WrestleMania 27, whether The Rock was used to maximum effect, how awesome Triple H and Undertaker were, and much more.Download this episode of Wrestlespective Radio (right click and save link as).

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WrestleMania’s Main Events No. 26: Undertaker v. Michaels

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sat, 02 Apr 2011 04:17:06 +0000

Jason Mann and Don Owens of Future Endeavors discuss The Undertaker v. Shawn Michaels at WrestleMania 26, how it compares to their classic from the year before, and Don’s roller coaster of emotions while watching the match in person.

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WrestleMania’s Main Events No. 25: Triple H v. Orton

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Fri, 01 Apr 2011 04:13:01 +0000

Jason Mann and Mitch of PizzaBodySlam discuss Triple H v. Randy Orton at WrestleMania 25, the very good and very bad storytelling heading into the match, and how self-restrictions kept this from being a cathartic good time (and maybe killed the crowd).

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WrestleMania’s Main Events No. 24: Edge v. Undertaker

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Thu, 31 Mar 2011 04:09:11 +0000

Jason Mann and Seth Roy discuss Edge v. The Undertaker at WrestleMania 24 and their somewhat forgotten yet epic feud.

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WrestleMania’s Main Events No. 23: Cena v. Michaels

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Wed, 30 Mar 2011 04:33:01 +0000

Jason Mann and Razor of Kick-Out!! Wrestling discuss John Cena v. Shawn Michaels at WrestleMania 23, where it ranks among the great WrestleMania matches, and Razor’s experiences attending the show in person.

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WrestleMania’s Main Events No. 22: Cena v. Triple H

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Tue, 29 Mar 2011 04:53:13 +0000

Jason Mann and K Sawyer Paul discuss John Cena v. Triple H at WrestleMania 22, how much thought WWE put into the entrances, and exactly how obnoxious the Chicago crowd was.

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WrestleMania’s Main Events No. 21: Triple H v. Batista

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Mon, 28 Mar 2011 04:08:14 +0000

Jason Mann and Razor from Kick-Out!! Wrestling discuss Triple H v. Batista at WrestleMania 21, how WWE is always in the here and now, whether Motorhead stole a bit of Batista’s thunder, and WWE moving on to a new generation of stars.

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WrestleMania’s Main Events No. 20: Triple H v. Michaels v. Benoit

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 27 Mar 2011 04:46:38 +0000

Jason Mann and Mitch from PizzaBodySlam discuss Triple H v. Shawn Michaels v. Chris Benoit at WrestleMania 20, how the match fits within the longtime HHH-Michaels story, and how it feels to watch the match years after the Benoit murder-suicide.

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WrestleMania’s Main Events No. 19: Angle v. Lesnar

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sat, 26 Mar 2011 04:20:16 +0000

Jason Mann and Seth Roy discuss Kurt Angle v. Brock Lesnar at WrestleMania 19, how it is different from any main event in WrestleMania history, and why that’s both good and bad.

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WrestleMania’s Main Events No. 18: Jericho v. Triple H

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Fri, 25 Mar 2011 03:08:37 +0000

Jason Mann and Don Owens of Future Endeavors discuss Chris Jericho v. Triple H at WrestleMania 18, whether any match could have possibly followed The Rock v. Hulk Hogan, and why the buildup didn’t quite click.

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WrestleMania’s Main Events No. 17: Rock v. Austin (once again)

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Thu, 24 Mar 2011 04:54:24 +0000

Jason Mann and Josh Hachat discuss The Rock v. Stone Cold Steve Austin at WrestleMania 17, how Austin’s heel turn affected WWE, whether Vince McMahon should have been involved and where the match ranks among the all-time classics.

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WrestleMania’s Main Events No. 16: Triple H v. Rock v. Big Show v. Foley (and the McMahons)

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Wed, 23 Mar 2011 04:12:44 +0000

Wrestlespective Radio continues discussing the final matches in WrestleMania history. Jason Mann and K Sawyer Paul talk about Triple H v. The Rock v. Big Show v. Mick Foley from WrestleMania 2000, with a McMahon in every corner.

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WrestleMania’s Main Events No. 15: Rock v. Austin

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Tue, 22 Mar 2011 04:03:40 +0000

Wrestlespective Radio continues discussing the final matches in WrestleMania history. Jason Mann and Seth Roy talk about The Rock v. Stone Cold Steve Austin at WrestleMania 15 and what drugs the director manning the replay booth must have been on.

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WrestleMania’s Main Events No. 14: Michaels, Austin and Tyson

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Mon, 21 Mar 2011 04:40:03 +0000

Wrestlespective Radio continues discussing the final matches in WrestleMania history. Jason Mann and Mitch from PizzaBodySlam talk about Shawn Michaels v. Stone Cold Steve Austin at WrestleMania 14, what Mike Tyson added to the mix, and whether Austin’s moment of victory felt suitably climactic.

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WrestleMania’s Main Events No. 13: Sid v. Undertaker

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 20 Mar 2011 04:32:26 +0000

Wrestlespective Radio continues discussing the final matches in WrestleMania history. Jason Mann and K Sawyer Paul debate whether Sid v. Undertaker at WrestleMania 13 is the worst main event in WrestleMania history and talk about why early 1997 was such a strange time in WWE.

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WrestleMania’s Main Events No. 12: Hart v. Michaels

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sat, 19 Mar 2011 04:31:55 +0000

Wrestlespective Radio continues its series of 26 podcasts in 26 days covering the final matches of the first 26 WrestleManias. Jason Mann and Don Owens of Future Endeavors talk about the Bret Hart v. Shawn Michaels iron man match at WrestleMania 12 and why it might not be the classic it is often touted to be.

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WrestleMania’s Main Events No. 11: Bigelow v. Taylor

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Fri, 18 Mar 2011 04:18:41 +0000

Wrestlespective Radio continues its series of 26 podcasts in 26 days covering the final matches of the first 26 WrestleManias. Jason Mann and Geno Mrosko of MMA Mania and Cageside Seats discuss Bam Bam Bigelow v. NFL legend Lawrence Taylor and somehow get off on a tangent about Mick Foley’s greatness as well

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WrestleMania’s Main Events No. 10: Yokozuna v. Hart

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Thu, 17 Mar 2011 00:48:39 +0000

Wrestlespective Radio continues its series of 26 podcasts in 26 days covering the final matches of the first 26 WrestleManias. Jason Mann and Josh Hachat discuss Yokozuna v. Bret Hart at WrestleMania 10 and one of the best post-match celebrations of all time.

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WrestleMania’s Main Events No. 9: Hart v. Yokozuna (and Hogan, too)

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Wed, 16 Mar 2011 00:35:41 +0000

Wrestlespective Radio continues its series of 26 podcasts in 26 days covering the final matches of the first 26 WrestleManias. Jason Mann and K Sawyer Paul talk about Bret Hart v. Yokozuna at WrestleMania 9 and Hulk Hogan obnoxiously swooping in to save the day.

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WrestleMania’s Main Events No. 8: Hogan v. Sid

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Tue, 15 Mar 2011 01:39:25 +0000

Wrestlespective Radio continues its series of 26 podcasts in 26 days covering the final matches of the first 26 WrestleManias. Jason Mann and K Sawyer Paul discuss WrestleMania 8′s final match of Hulk Hogan v. Sid Justice and why WWE didn’t have Hogan v. Ric Flair instead.

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WrestleMania’s Main Events No. 7: Slaughter v. Hogan

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Mon, 14 Mar 2011 06:02:06 +0000

Wrestlespective Radio continues its series of 26 podcasts in 26 days covering the final matches of the first 26 WrestleManias. Jason Mann and K Sawyer Paul discuss Sgt. Slaughter v. Hulk Hogan, the main event of WrestleMania 7, and the fascinating ways WWE exploited the Gulf War.

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WrestleMania’s Main Events No. 6: Hogan v. Warrior

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 13 Mar 2011 00:02:46 +0000

Wrestlespective Radio continues its series of 26 podcasts in 26 days covering the final matches of the first 26 WrestleManias. Jason Mann and Fat Man After Dark of the Future Endeavors podcast discuss Hulk Hogan v. Ultimate Warrior at WrestleMania 6 and ponder why the Warrior wasn’t a huge success as champion, among other topics.

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WrestleMania’s Main Events No. 5: Savage v. Hogan

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sat, 12 Mar 2011 12:01:19 +0000

Wrestlespective Radio continues its series of 26 podcasts in 26 days covering the final matches of the first 26 WrestleManias. Jason Mann and Josh Hachat examine what happens exactly when Mega Powers start colliding.

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WrestleMania’s Main Events No. 4: Savage v. DiBiase

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Fri, 11 Mar 2011 00:01:14 +0000

Wrestlespective Radio continues its series of 26 podcasts in 26 days covering the final matches of the first 26 WrestleManias. Jason Mann and David Buckler, aka Mr. Glamazon, of Diva Dirt recount the Wrestlemania 4 tournament and final of Macho Man Randy Savage v. The Million Dollar Man Ted DiBiase.

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WrestleMania’s Main Events No. 3: Hogan v. Andre

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Thu, 10 Mar 2011 00:01:21 +0000

Wrestlespective Radio continues its series of 26 podcasts in 26 days covering the final matches of the first 26 WrestleManias. Jason Mann and Razor of Kick-Out!! Wrestling and Fair to Flair discuss Hulk Hogan v. Andre the Giant at WrestleMania 3. Does this legendary match live up to the hype?

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WrestleMania’s Main Events No. 2: Hogan v. Bundy

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Wed, 09 Mar 2011 00:01:30 +0000

Wrestlespective Radio continues its series of 26 podcasts in 26 days covering the final matches of the first 26 WrestleManias. Jason Mann and Fat Man After Dark of Future Endeavors discuss Hulk Hogan v. King Kong Bundy in a steel cage from WrestleMania 2.

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WrestleMania’s Main Events No. 1: Hogan & Mr. T v. Piper & Orndorff

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Tue, 08 Mar 2011 00:30:17 +0000

Wrestlespective Radio begins its series of 26 podcasts in 26 days covering the final matches of the first 26 WrestleManias. Jason Mann and Josh Hachat discuss the main event of the first WrestleMania: Hulk Hogan & Mr. T v. Rowdy Roddy Piper & Paul Orndorff.

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48: Elimination Chamber and the road to WrestleMania

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 16:11:44 +0000

Jason Mann and Don Owens discuss Elimination Chamber 2011, which included a near-certain match of the year candidate and some fun surprises. They also discuss the Jerry Lawler-Miz saga, Undertaker’s and Triple H’s returns, what fans’ expectations for The Rock should be, and much more.

Originally published: 2/23/11

47: Wrestling Observer Newsletter Awards, plus talking wrestling in the 1980s and 1990s

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 16:07:06 +0000

Jason Mann and Black Cat of Flair Chop Illustrated: Old School Wrestling Podcast discuss their favorite times in pro wrestling and then pore over the Wrestling Observer Newsletter Awards and share their picks for the best and worst of 2010.

Originally published: 2/3/11

46: Royal Rumble 2011, road to Wrestlemania, and parsing what The Rock says

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 16:00:22 +0000

Jason Mann and Don Owens of the Future Endeavors podcast discuss Royal Rumble 2011, what they expect out of Elimination Chamber and Wrestlemania, and debate whether fans deserve to see The Rock in a WWE ring again.

Originally published: 2/3/11

45: Wrestling as an artform and great matches that led to nothing

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 15:58:39 +0000

Jason Mann talks to K Sawyer Paul of Footnotes of Wrestling about pro wrestling as an artform, C.M. Punk’s brilliance, rushed WWE storytelling, TNA’s concussion angle, acting as Fake Vince, plus some great matches that all coincidentally went nowhere: Raven v. Chris Jericho at Halloween Havoc 1998, Ric Flair & Arn Anderson v. Steve Austin & Brian Pillman at Clash of the Champions 23, Hulk Hogan v. Lex Luger from the 8/4/1997 Nitro, and the Stone Cold Steve Austin v. Triple H epic at No Way Out 2001. And if this show isn’t enough for you, check out Jason’s appearance at Footnotes of Wrestling.

Originally published: 1/26/11

44: Unpopular opinions about wrestling, what TNA does right, 2011 predictions and evaluating HBK

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 15:55:50 +0000

Jason Mann and Josh Hachat go back to the (metaphorical) mailbag and tackle some pressing matters in the world of professional wrestling. They discuss why Shawn Michaels might not be the greatest of all time after all, unpopular opinions we might have about wrestling, greatest entrances, whether tag teams can be relevant today, what specifically Jason doesn’t like about ECW, what TNA is doing right these days, which wrestlers might move up or down in 2011, WWE’s insistence on sticking with theme pay-per-views and much, much more.

Originally published: 1/20/11

43: TLC 2010, memories of the year that was, favorite ladder matches and Sheamus v. Morrison

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 15:53:19 +0000

Special guest Don Owens of the Future Endeavors podcast is back to talk about the latest happenings in WWE. He and Jason Mann discuss TLC 2010, including the great John Morrison v. Sheamus ladder match, the merits of a non-title main event, whether Morrison is or ever shall be a good professional wrestler, the overall John Cena v. Nexus story, the best and worst moments of 2010, and favorite past TLC and ladder matches..

Originally published: 12/21/10

42: The Main Event Project, Savage v. Junkyard Dog at The Wrestling Classic

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 15:50:40 +0000

The Main Event Project continues as Jason Mann and Seth Roy review of Randy Savage v. Junkyard Dog in the finals of The Wrestling Classic. They recount the best and worst of the 16-man tournament, marvel at Savage’s ability to draw heat, discuss the difference in perception between the WWE and Intercontinental titles at the time, the relaxed commentary of Gorilla Monsoon, Jesse Ventura and Mean Gene Okerlund, and much more.

Originally published: 12/11/10

41: Dirtsheets, media, ECW, War Games ‘91, Hogan-Andre, and more with Razor of Kick-Out!! Wrestling

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 15:47:12 +0000

Razor of Kick-Out!! Wrestling visits Wrestlespective Radio, and he and Jason Mann discuss the good and bad in wrestling websites, whether WWE is really unfairly treated in the mainstream media, dealing with the negativity, being a young WWE fan in the 1980s, finding WCW and ECW in the 1990s, why it’s hard to watch TNA in 2010, Hulk Hogan v. Andre the Giant from Wrestlemania 3, whether John Cena is a good candidate to break Undertaker’s Wrestlemania win streak, War Games from WrestleWar 1991, greatness of Brian Pillman, Randy Orton v. Chris Jericho from Armageddon 2007, and much more.

Originally published: 12/3/10

40: The Main Event Project, Martel v. Hansen at Superclash 1

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 15:43:28 +0000

The Main Event Project continues with a review of the brief but wild AWA Champion Rick Martel v. Stan Hansen at Superclash 1 on 9/28/1985. Jason Mann and Josh Hachat discuss the match, the atmosphere at Comiskey Park, Martel’s abilities as a babyface, answering the challenge of the WWF, the loaded card, Verne Gagne’s relationship with the NWA, Hansen’s falling out with the AWA, and more.

Originally published: 11/30/10

39: Hogan & Bischoff failure, wrestlers who know less than fans, and chants that ruin wrestling

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 15:41:19 +0000

Jason Mann and Josh Hachat talk more about TNA’s failings coming out of Turning Point (though they could apply to just about any TNA pay-per-view), just how disappointing the Bischoff-Hogan regime has been, comparisons between Vince Russo and M. Night Shyamalan, why wrestlers sometimes can’t see the forest for the trees, how the argument that outsiders can’t understand the wrestling business is completely faulty, and how “This is Awesome” chants and the like from fans ruin the fun for everyone. Then they talk about a recommended Chikara match, Mike Quackenbush v. Claudio Castagnoli from Negative Balance (8/13/2005), on the Best of Chikara DVD.

Originally published: 11/26/10

38: The Miz stands alone, Survivor Series 2010 review, Cena firing angle, and Ezekiel Jackson

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 15:38:36 +0000

Special guest Don Owens of the Future Endeavors podcast is back to talk about the latest happenings in WWE. He and Jason Mann discuss Survivor Series 2010, The Miz’s big WWE Championship win, John Cena’s firing from WWE and how he could eventually return, whether WWE is too averse to risk, the outlook for the next TLC pay-per-view, WWE’s recent firings, how much Triple H could have left, next week’s King of the Ring, another season of NXT, the Ezekiel Jackson push, our favorite entrance themes and much more.

Originally published: 11/23/10

37.2: Great moments of the Attitude Era, rise and fall of WCW, Goldberg, turning Cena and more

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 15:36:07 +0000

Geno Mrosko of MMA Mania and Cageside Seats visits the show. In part two, he talks to Jason Mann about Stone Cold Steve Austin v. Dude Love at Over the Edge 1998, frustrating continuity errors in wrestling and the constant shifting of Kane’s back story, Shawn Michaels v. The Undertaker Hell in a Cell at Bad Blood 1997, skillful podcast segues, Team WCW v. Team NWO War Games at Fall Brawl 1996, WCW’s good times and bad, the disappointing Hulk Hogan v. Sting match at Starrcade 1997, how big of a difference that made in the demise of WCW, Goldberg’s time in WCW and WWE, the infamous Brock Lesnar v. Goldberg match at Wrestlemania 20, the potential of unifying the WWE and World titles, considering ways to turn John Cena heel, whether the Undertaker should remain undefeated at Wrestlemania, the attractiveness of various championship belts, whether The Miz will successfully cash in Money in the Bank, developing concrete characters in 2010 in wrestling, why many MMA fans despise pro wrestling, why ignoring the connection between the two is silly, and much more.

Originally published: 11/19/10

37.1: Old School Raw, Survivor Series ‘90, Batista in MMA, UFC rise, WWE fall, and concussions

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 15:33:34 +0000

Geno Mrosko of MMA Mania and Cageside Seats visits the show. Part one of his talk with Jason Mann focuses on the Old School Raw, Roddy Piper’s wonderful emotional promo, Batista trying MMA, how UFC overtook WWE, lack of stars in today’s wrestling, Survivor Series 1990, WWE production, the greatness of Howard Finkel, how nostalgia colors opinions, the politics of the WWE Top 50 Superstars of All Time list, fan apathy because of overexposure and overscripting, the Internet’s role in shaping wrestling and MMA, concussions in combat sports, and how Mick Foley can still be coherent.

Originally published: 11/19/10

36: Survivor Series 1987

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 15:30:44 +0000

It’s Survivor Series week, and we’re celebrating by taking a look back at the very first edition in 1987. Jason Mann and Seth Roy talk about the buildup to the show, the incredible depth of talent in 1987, how much fans loved Randy Savage and hated the Honky Tonk Man, the awesome Jumping Bomb Angels, the less awesome Fabulous Moolah, women who can wrestle but don’t look like models, the breathtaking 37-minute 10-team tag match, why Hulk Hogan might not want to trust Paul Orndorff, Jesse Ventura’s contradictions the beginning of the Survivor Series cop-out finishes, and the incredible reaction to Bam Bam Bigelow.

Originally published: 11/17/10

35: Q&A on provocative Twitter pictures, worst gimmick matches, ideas for unification and more

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 15:24:23 +0000

It’s time again to dig into the mailbag (or the Twitter equivalent) with Wrestlespective’s Jason Mann and Josh Hachat as they discuss a random assortment of topics, including: which women’s wrestler has the most provocative Twitter picture, worst gimmick matches ever, best Intercontinental title match at Summerslam, the best way unify the WWE and World titles, why Diesel was doomed to fail as the next Hulk Hogan, the most pointless titles in wrestling history, why a studio used to be a great atmosphere for a wrestling show, poor promotion of pay-per-views, lack of good women’s wrestling, the Hart Dynasty breakup and more.

Originally published: 11/15/10

34: WWE’s Top 50 Superstars of All Time and the folly of calling any wrestler the greatest

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 08:19:34 +0000

WWE’s list of top 50 wrestlers (sorry — superstars) of all time has been released for its upcoming DVD, and boy some of the choices are kind of baffling. While it’s not worth getting mad about in any way, Jason Mann and Josh Hachat break down the top 50, try to comprehend what criteria could justify the list, consider what kind of political effects influenced the choices, debate which wrestlers were overlooked, who was ranked too high or low or not at all, why Hulk Hogan v. Bruno Sammartino debates need context, and why no one is qualified to call anyone the greatest wrestler of all time.

Originally published: 11/15/10

33: Greatness of 1997, defending the ugly new TNA title, ROH love, and more with PIZZABODYSLAM

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 08:16:29 +0000

Mitch of PIZZABODYSLAM visits Wrestlespective Radio, and he and host Jason Mann talk about trying to create a distinctive voice in the wrestling blogosphere, defending the ugly new TNA belt, massive love for 1997 WWF, how the stigma of being a wrestling fan has changed, best iron-man matches, excitement of attending Ring of Honor shows, getting into the independent style, dealing with chant-happy crowds, the joy of a great live crowd, having an arm on the cover of a DVD, the missed opportunity that was TNA, the badness of Jeff Jarrett, and the following matches:

Bret Hart v. The Undertaker, Summerslam 1997
Edge & Christian v. The Dudleys v. The Hardys, Wrestlemania 2000
John Cena v. Randy Orton, WWE Bragging Rights 2009
Bryan Danielson v. Claudio Castagnoli, ROH Northern Navigation 2008
Samoa Joe v. A.J. Styles v. Christopher Daniels, TNA Unbreakable 2005

Originally published: 11/12/10

32: The Main Event Project, Hogan & Mr. T v. Piper & Orndorff at Wrestlemania 1

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 08:14:04 +0000

Wrestlespective continues recapping every major U.S. pay-per-view main event with Hulk Hogan & Mr. T v. Roddy Piper & Paul Orndorff at Wrestlemania 1. Jason Mann and Josh Hachat discuss Hogan’s first year as champion, Mr. T’s importance in the popularization of the WWF, the War to Settle the Score and the rock-and-wrestling connection, Piper’s unmatched ability to be hated, Orndorff’s perpetual underratedness and more.

Originally published: 11/8/10

31: The Main Event Project, Flair v. Rhodes at Starrcade ‘84

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 08:10:15 +0000

Wrestlespective continues recapping every major U.S. pay-per-view main event with Ric Flair v. Dusty Rhodes at Starrcade 1984: The Million Dollar Challenge. Jason Mann and Seth Roy discuss the awesome promos that set up the match, Dusty as a preacher, Flair straddling the line between face and heel, whether the quest for one million dollars worked as a story, the Mid-Atlantic territory’s evolution into WCW, Joe Frazier as a referee, Kyle Petty as a seemingly unnecessary ringside judge and more.

Originally published: 11/5/10

30: Smackdown vs. Raw 2011, Countdown to Lockdown, Raw GM, and Sting’s future

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 08:03:10 +0000

Seth Roy shares his thoughts on Mick Foley’s Countdown to Lockdown and the new Smackdown vs. Raw 2011 video game. Then he and Jason Mann answer reader questions about Raw’s mystery general manager, Sting’s future in wrestling and how he might fare in WWE, Harley Race’s king gimmick and more.

Originally published: 11/2/10

29: WWE, Chikara, ECW, TNA, WCW, Dragon Gate and more with The Wrestling Blog’s Thomas Holzerman

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 07:59:53 +0000

Special guest Thomas Holzerman of The Wrestling Blog talks with Wrestlespective’s Jason Mann about his love for Chikara, covering independent wrestling and attending shows, why WWE pay-per-view business is declining, why nostalgia almost never works, learning from WCW’s failures, how TNA could be successful, the merits of wrestling as sport vs. entertainment, pushing non-wrestlers in prominent roles, promotions catering to the Internet crowd, whether the Beer Money-Motor City Machine Guns best-of-five series was a success, WWE’s lack of recent breakthrough stars and much, much more. They also discuss Tom’s evolution as a wrestling fan and some of his favorite matches:

Ultimate Warrior v. Randy Savage, Wrestlemania 7
Chris Jericho v. Pit Bull No. 2, Hardcore Heaven 1996
The Rock v. Hulk Hogan, Wrestlemania 18
Young Bucks v. CIMA & Susumu Yokosuka, Dragon Gate USA No. 1

Originally published: 11/1/10

28: WWE Championship history with author Kevin Sullivan

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 07:57:20 +0000

Wrestlespective Radio welcomes author Kevin Sullivan, whose new book, “The WWE Championship,” will be out Nov. 23. He and Wrestlespective’s Jason Mann talk about the evolution of the title and how its value has changed over the years, fascinating stories from past champions such as the Iron Sheik, Bret Hart, Ric Flair, Sid and Sgt. Slaughter, overlooked champions, Kevin’s tenure at WWE.com for a decade, experiences working under Vince McMahon, his first memories of pro wrestling and his favorite wrestlers, matches and moments

Originally published: 10/29/10

27.2: Survivor Series past and present

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 07:54:31 +0000

Special guest Don Owens of the Future Endeavors podcast is back to talk about the latest happenings in WWE. In part two, he and host Jason Mann look ahead to Survivor Series 2010 with Wade Barrett v. Randy Orton with John Cena as referee, talk about their favorite moments of Survivor Series past, express frustrations at pay-per-views with few announced matches, and answer questions from Twitter regarding Santino Marella’s push, how to best use the Undertaker, who might win the Royal Rumble, and more.

Originally published: 10/27/10

27.1: Bragging Rights 2010, Lesnar-Undertaker wackiness, Barrett-Cena, and Stand Up For WWE debate

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 07:51:49 +0000

Special guest Don Owens of the Future Endeavors podcast is back to talk about the latest happenings in WWE. In part one, he and host Jason Mann discuss the fallout from Bragging Rights 2010, the Brock Lesnar v. Cain Velasquez UFC fight, the strange staredown between Lesnar and the Undertaker and some ideas of how WWE could take advantage of that buzz, whether an MMA v. WWE feud could work, what to do with Undertaker when he returns from the grave (again), why Wade Barrett won’t just make John Cena wear the Nexus T-shirt already, the great Daniel Bryan v. Dolph Ziggler matches and how WWE could follow up, whether Edge and Randy Orton can be effective babyfaces and much more. There is also a “Crossfire”-style debate (minus the yelling) over the Stand Up For WWE campaign, whether WWE has effectively answered legitimate criticisms and whether WWE has received enough credit for the good it has done.

Originally published: 10/26/10

26: WWE and TNA women, classic 1980s moments, WCW invasion, and more with Diva Dirt’s Mr. Glamazon

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 07:48:56 +0000

Jason Mann talks with special guest David Buckler, aka Mr. Glamazon, of Diva Dirt about how women’s wrestling is treated in WWE and TNA, the source of David’s love for Beth Phoenix, Internet fans’ attitudes toward Michelle McCool, the Beautiful People’s dominance in TNA, the days of Awesome Kong and Gail Kim, Mickie James in TNA, the philosophy of trying to shove everyone onto a Wrestlemania, memories of Saturday Night’s Main Event and classic Wrestlemanias, the awesome WWF tag teams in the late 1980s, whether wrestling is more fun the less you know, the Randy Savage and Elizabeth saga, the failure of the WCW invasion in 2001, the rise of The Miz, the Undertaker refusing to break character, Santino Marella and how WWE ruins a good joke, Beth Phoenix v. Michelle McCool at Extreme Rules 2010, the Strike Force v. Hart Foundation tag title change in 1987, and Honky Tonk Man v. Randy Savage at Saturday Night’s Main Event No. 12, which was the first meeting of the Mega Powers.

Originally published: 10/22/10

25: Best Battles of Mick Foley, starring the Nasty Boys, Dreamer & Funk, and The Rock

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 07:45:51 +0000

Jason Mann and Josh Hachat discuss three of Mick Foley’s noteworthy battles in celebration of Five Days of Foley:

Cactus Jack & Maxx Payne v. the Nasty Boys, WCW Spring Stampede 1994
Cactus Jack & Raven v. Tommy Dreamer & Terry Funk, ECW November to Remember 1995
Mankind v. The Rock, WWF Monday Night Raw, 1/4/99

Originally published: 10/21/10

24: Q&A (and rant) on Stand Up For WWE, top 25 talkers, Matt Hardy, TNA and WCW

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 07:42:52 +0000

Wrestlespective’s Jason Mann has a few things he needs to get off his chest regarding the insipid and insulting Stand Up For WWE campaign. He and Josh Hachat discuss that, plus the WWE.com list of 25 best talkers that ranks John Cena ahead of Dusty Rhodes, rumors that Matt Hardy will start his own dirtsheet, explaining why its pointless to fret over TNA because it is highly unlikely they will ever get a clue, and remembering the good times in WCW.

Originally published: 10/21/10

23: Q&A on rehabbing X Division, unresolved angles, punches, Jeff Hardy turn, and Hogan-Flair as friends

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 07:25:59 +0000

Wrestlespective digs into the mailbag to answer some questions from listeners. Jason Mann and Josh Hachat discuss how the X Division can be saved, unresolved wrestling storylines like Samoa Joe’s kidnapping, the WCW Hummer driver and Baby Doll’s photos, poorly resolved angles like Austin’s attack or the Higher Power, what wrestlers have the best and worst punches, why vehicle-related angles always seem so hokey, whether Hulk Hogan and Ric Flair should ever be on the same side, how many factions is too many and more.

Originally published: 10/15/10

22: The Main Event Project, Race v. Flair at Starrcade ‘83

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 07:23:38 +0000

Wrestlespective begins its lengthy series recapping every main event of a major U.S. pay-per-view by talking with Harley Race v. Ric Flair at Starrcade 1983. Jason Mann and Seth Roy discuss Flair’s oddly dismissive attitude toward his first NWA title reign, NWA politics of the 1980s, Mid-Atlantic as the new power center of the NWA, Race putting a bounty on Flair’s head, the angle in which Bob Orton and Dick Slater injure Flair’s neck, Flair’s wild return from retirement and awesome promo, the press conference announcing Greensboro as the site of Starrcade, the sports-event feel of the crowd, referee Gene Kiniski as a distraction and the greatness of the match itself.

Originally published: 10/13/10

21: Comparing Michaels-Undertaker Wrestlemania matches, Hell in a Cell 2010, and John Cena in Nexus

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 07:20:57 +0000

Jason Mann talks to Don Owens of the Future Endeavors podcast, and they expound on Don’s 16-year streak of not missing a WWE pay-per-view, memories of attending Wrestlemania 26, love for Big Daddy Cool, watching Brock Lesnar, John Cena and Randy Orton before they were stars, and meeting the super-nice Rico Constantino. Jason and Don also discuss Hell in a Cell 2010, the storytelling possibilities of John Cena in Nexus, how to jazz up Bragging Rights, the best and worst themed pay-per-views, the possibilities of John Morrison, and whether 2010 fans will unite behind a top babyface. They also talk in detail about some of Don’s favorite matches:

Shawn Michaels v. Diesel, In Your House 7: Good Friends, Better Enemies (4/28/96)
Brock Lesnar vs. The Rock, Summerslam 2002 (8/25/02)
Shawn Michaels v. The Undertaker, Wrestlemania 25 (4/5/09)
Shawn Michaels v. The Undertaker, Wrestlemania 26 (3/28/10)

Originally published: 10/6/10

20: Jericho, Hart v. Bulldog, Michaels v. Angle and more with SLAM! Wrestling’s Jon Waldman

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 07:16:50 +0000

Jason Mann interviews Jon Waldman of SLAM! Wrestling on the 20th episode of Wrestlespective Radio. Jon and Jason talk about SLAM! Wrestling’s origins in the late 1990s, Jon’s experiences interviewing Chris Jericho, Jericho’s “Breaking the Code” DVD and great moments in his career, some key differences in wrestling between 2010 and the 1980s, Jon’s first memories as a wrestling fan, Davey Boy Smith’s legacy, Jim Cornette’s influence, Michael Hayes’ time in WWE, how TV overexposure has changed wrestling, Shawn Michaels’ early career, the WWE Smackdown Six era in 2002, memories of ECW, long matches on TV, philosophy of hardcore wrestling, So Cal Val and TNA, and more. They also go through some of Jon’s favorite matches:

Bret Hart v. Davey Boy Smith, WWF In Your House 5: Seasons Beatings, 12/17/95
Thrillseekers (Chris Jericho & Lance Storm) v. Heavenly Bodies, SMW Night of the Legends, 8/5/94
Shawn Michaels v. Kurt Angle, WWE Wrestlemania 21, 4/3/05
Rob Van Dam v. Jerry Lynn, ECW Hardcore Heaven 1999, 5/16/99

Originally published: 9/30/10

19: Colossal connections and beastly brawls

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 07:08:36 +0000

Josh Hachat and Jason Mann discuss some intriguing and generally fun matches involving big men facing off against other big men:

Diesel (Kevin Nash) v. The Undertaker, WWE Wrestlemania 12, 3/31/96
Sid v. Goldberg, WCW Halloween Havoc, 10/14/99
Andre the Giant & Hulk Hogan v. Big John Studd & King Kong Bundy, Saturday Night’s Main Event No. 3, 11/2/85
Albert v. Kane, WWE Smackdown, 6/14/01 and 6/28/01

Originally published: 9/28/10

18: Fun with Hell in a Cell

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 07:04:46 +0000

Jason Mann is joined by Wrestlespective’s Seth Roy for a marathon show talking about the likely matches at the next WWE Hell in a Cell pay-per-view, the Smackdown and Raw spoilers, the merits of blood in cage matches and much more. Then Jason and Seth discuss the following Hell in a Cell matches in depth before sharing their memories of the remaining 16 (at least the ones they’ve seen):

Brock Lesnar v. The Undertaker, WWE No Mercy, 10/20/02
Batista v. Triple H, WWE Vengeance, 6/26/05
Steve Austin v. Kurt Angle v. The Rock v. Triple H v. The Undertaker v. Rikishi, WWE Armageddon, 12/10/00

Originally published: 9/24/10

17: Q&A on making titles meaningful, TNA’s “they,” Hardy hate, soma ban and more

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 07:01:34 +0000

Josh Hachat and Jason Mann answer your questions and discuss who “they” might be in TNA, being perversely interested in Bound For Glory and the end of the Hogan-Bischoff era, how to give the WWE tag-team division a lift, why Internet fans don’t like the Hardy Boys, our philosophy on defending championships and making them meaningful, how to keep main eventers busy when they are out of the title picture, Jason’s snarky comments about the ROH title, the WWE’s ban on somas, wellness issues and more. We also make some hacky Matt Hardy weight jokes; nobody is perfect. Speaking of which, thanks to careful planning, this show was recorded before Night of Champions, which should lead to many laughs about how out of date some of our answers are

Originally published: 9/23/10

16: Monday Night War Part 5: New sense of urgency

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 06:58:15 +0000

Jason Mann and Josh Hachat recap the January 1996 episodes of WWF Raw and WCW Nitro, plus the Royal Rumble and Clash of the Champions 32. Topics discussed include:

the Raw Bowl and football puns
Billionaire Ted’s Rasslin War Room
Lord Steven Regal: a man’s man
more drama between friends Hulk Hogan and Randy Savage, Sting and Lex Luger and the Dungeon of Doom and the Four Horsemen
Jeff Jarrett’s ugly outfits
Shawn Michaels returning to the building
The Ringmaster and a skinny Matt Hardy
Undertaker vs. Kane before he was Kane
the many sides of Goldust
the baffling mix of genres that is the “American Males” theme song
Vader destroying Gorilla Monsoon
a shocking world-title change
the return of the Road Warriors
the debut of the notorious P.I.G.
Sunny’s sultry come-ons for Raw
Shawn Michaels’ horrible babyface obnoxiousness
Flair’s great shoe-aided triumph over Hogan
Macho Man doesn’t care what you think

Originally published: 9/17/10

15: Q&A on belt design, favorite celebrations, predicting wrestling’s future, not digging the indies

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 06:53:48 +0000

Jason Mann and Josh Hachat answer questions submitted by listeners in this edition of Wrestlespective Radio. Topics include the new design WWE Tag Team Championship, best facial expressions, our favorite title-victory celebrations, the future of wrestling on television, whether TNA has ruined the chance for a second wrestling company to thrive, WWE after Vince McMahon, the greatest tag teams in the world, why we’re horrible wrestling fans who don’t support indy wrestling, and wondering what would happen if ESPN got involved in the wrestling business.

Originally published: 9/3/10

14: Parade of Champions vs. Champions

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 06:50:14 +0000

Wrestlespective Radio takes a look at some notable champion vs. champion matches in professional wrestling. Josh Hachat and Jason Mann break down the following bouts:

Hulk Hogan (WWF) vs. The Ultimate Warrior (Intercontinental), 4/1/90 WWF Wrestlemania 6
Rob Van Dam (Intercontinental) vs. Tommy Dreamer (Hardcore), 8/26/2002 WWE Raw
Samoa Joe (X Division) & Kurt Angle (TNA World) vs. Team 3D (Tag Team), 7/15/2007 TNA Victory Road
Triple H (WWF) vs. Tazz (ECW), 4/20/2000 WWF Smackdown
Jerry Lawler (AWA World) vs. Kerry Von Erich (World Class), October 1988 AWA on ESPN

Topics discussed include the surprising spryness of 2002 Tommy Dreamer, silliness getting in the way of an otherwise pretty good TNA match, how swell Triple H was in 2000, good guys getting nasty and why the Ultimate Warrior ended up not being a bigger success. We even rant about how wrestling titles don’t mean as much as they used to. How novel of us! Check it out!

Originally published: 8/27/10

13: Monday Night War Part 4: Can’t we all just get along?

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 06:40:19 +0000

Jason and Josh are back recapping the December 1995 episodes of WWF Raw and WCW Nitro, plus In Your House 5 and Starrcade. Topics discussed include: the deliberative nature of the WCW Executive Committee, whether wrestlers of the 1990s had better fundamentals than today’s workers, the endless bickering between Hulk Hogan, Randy Savage, Sting and Lex Luger, the baffling protection of Bob Backlund, the baffling lack of protection for Savage, the power of Hogan’s mustache, how Xanta Claus ruined Christmas, the greatness of Bret Hart vs. Davey Boy Smith, wondering where all these fine Japanese fellows came from, testing the limits of how many times Jason can say “spoiler alert” and four words that will change you life: “Tell Me A Lie.” And, as you might imagine, much more.

Originally published: 8/4/10

12: Great Grudges of the 1980s

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 06:31:59 +0000

Wrestlespective Radio goes back to the 1980s as Josh and Jason discuss three classic grudge matches: the Terry Funk-Jerry Lawler empty arena match in Memphis from 5/9/1981, the Iron Sheik-Sgt. Slaughter boot camp battle at Madison Square Garden from 6/16/1984 and Michael P.S. Hayes, Buddy Roberts and Terry Gordy battling Kevin Von Erich, Kerry Von Erich and Mike Von Erich in Fort Worth on 7/4/1984. Topics discussed include the wonderful insanity of Terry Funk, the beautiful intensity professional wrestling used to have and how baffling the Freebirds-Von Erichs was as a choice for Wrestling Observer match of the year.

Originally published: 7/26/10

11: The wild, wildly overrated legacy of ECW

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 06:27:57 +0000

Josh Hachat and Jason Mann are back with another edition of Wrestlespective Radio. This time, they discuss this week’s “ReCW” invasion of TNA Impact, whether this version will work any better than anything TNA does, what ECW means in wrestling in 2010, what influence ECW had in the Monday Night Wars, remembering some of the best and worst moments and much more.

Originally published: 7/17/10

10: Monday Night War Part 3: Shawn Michaels has fallen and he can’t get up

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 06:24:21 +0000

Wrestlespective Radio returns as Jason Mann and Josh Hachat continue looking back at the Monday Night War between WCW and WWF. Part 3 of our series looks at November 1995, and topics discussed include: the Shawn Michaels concussion angle, the end of Dieselmania and that tricky Bret Hart, someone besides Hulk Hogan becoming WCW champion, the “wildcard” Survivor Series, the debut of the World War 3 battle royal, the beginning of Ahmed Johnson, Hogan’s “shoot” promo on the Wrestling Observer, the end of the Renegade experiment, excellent Japanese women’s wrestling, hillbillies and their love of slop, Randy Savage’s real fake arm injury and more.

Originally published: 5/30/10

9: Monday Night War Part 2: Man vs. man and machine vs. machine

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 06:21:22 +0000

This edition of Wrestlespective Radio continues our month-by-month review of the six-year Monday Night War between WCW Nitro and WWF Raw. Jason Mann and Josh Hachat travel back to October 1995 and explain Hulk Hogan’s first flirtation with the dark side and continued uncontrolled ego, Bret Hart’s continuing feuds with wrestlers who were far beneath him, the Horsemen deciding to turn on Sting for old times’ sake, Diesel being chewed out by Vince McMahon after a pay-per-view main event, Shawn Michaels being beaten up by Marines for realz, when Avatar was an unpopular wrestler and not a popular movie, the Yeti, the catastrophe that is Hulk Hogan vs. the Giant at Halloween Havoc, and much more.

Originally published: 5/26/10

8: Monday Night War Part 1: WCW draws first blood

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 06:16:18 +0000

This edition of Wrestlespective Radio begins our month-by-month review of the six-year Monday Night War between WCW Nitro and WWF Raw. Jason Mann and Josh Hachat take you back to September 1995, when Hulkamania was (still) running wild over WCW and Diesel power was running WWF.

Topics of discussion include Lex Luger’s shocking debut on the first Nitro, the serendipity of Sting and Ric Flair wrestling on the first and last editions, the 1-2-3 Kid rekindling his feud with Razor Ramon, whether the Smoking Gunns’ tight jeans are better than John Cena’s jean shorts, the baffling tactic of introducing new talent only to have them immediately lose, the tremendous Ric Flair-Arn Anderson feud, whether wrestling Canadian pirates was the best use of Bret Hart’s time and much more.

Originally published: 5/18/10

7: Pure Sports Builds, Part 2: Ken Shamrock, Vader, Owen Hart, Hogan training Mean Gene

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 06:11:59 +0000

Josh Hachat and Jason Mann return with part two of our discussion of Pure Sports Builds. We talk about Ken Shamrock’s WWE career, specifically his debut against Vader at Cold Day in Hell in 1997 and his Lions Den battle with Owen Hart at Summerslam 1998. Topics covered include: MMA’s influence on pro wrestling, making submissions believable, Jerry Lawler’s seeming disdain for UFC, missed opportunities for Shamrock, how Goldberg succeeded in WCW by adopting the shootfighting gimmick, comedic examples of pure sports builds like Vince McMahon training for the Royal Rumble or Hulk Hogan training Mean Gene Okerlund and more. Download this episode.

Originally published: 5/9/10

6: The Death of the Second Monday Night War

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 05:42:10 +0000

Josh Hachat and Jason Mann talk about the end of the Second Monday Night War (what a glorious struggle it was) and what TNA should do now that it has to tuck its tail back to Thursday night. We also talk about the disappointing Wrestlemania 26 buyrate and the reasons why it was disappointing.

Originally broadcast: 5/8/10

5: Pure Sports Builds, Part 1: Lesnar-Rock, Angle-Joe and St. Louis

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 05:37:42 +0000

Josh Hachat and Jason Mann return with a new episode of Wrestlespective Radio and part one of our discussion of Pure Sports Builds! Our wide-ranging discussion focuses on Brock Lesnar vs. The Rock at WWE Summerslam 2002 and Kurt Angle vs. Samoa Joe at TNA Lockdown 2008. We also talk about how emphasizing wins and losses can make wrestling better, the Gary Cubeta and Larry Matysik St. Louis booking sheets discussions at 57talk.com, how sports entertainment is more passe than “rasslin,” the inflexibility of TNA and WWE, the pitfalls of automatic rematches, stellar training montages, developing in-match strategy through interviews and commentary, cutting down on nonsense and shenanigans and much, much more. Download this episode.

Originally broadcast: 5/6/10

4: Wrestlemania 2000 review, starring the McMahon Family

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 05:34:54 +0000

Jason Mann and Josh Hachat discuss Wrestlemania 2000, headlined by a fatal four-way between Triple H, The Rock, Big Show and Mick Foley with a McMahon in every corner. Topics include: how too many McMahons can ruin a perfectly good thing, seeing Paul Bearer do crotch chops, watching our first Chris Benoit matches in nearly three years, how Eddie Guerrero being a perfect heel can make something out of nothing, Val Venis being the worst referee in WWE history, how nonsensical table-setting can ruin an otherwise fun ladder match, a T&A (Test and Albert) match that might have been worse than any TNA match in history, the stunning lack of sense used in the 13-man hardcore battle royal and the fact that perhaps pimpin’ might not be easy after all. A huge, overbooked cluster of a show (the Wrestlemania, not Wrestlespective Radio) that had many puzzling things and lent itself to good discussion.

Originally broadcast: 4/8/10

3: Royal Rumble 2000 review, Part 2

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 05:32:11 +0000

Jason Mann and Josh Hachat return for part two of our review of the 2000 Royal Rumble. We discuss the greatness of Mick Foley, how patience paid off with the ascension of Triple H, detailing why their street fight might be among the greatest WWE matches ever, the Royal Rumble match itself, how The Rock was really developing into the No. 1 babyface, the merits of “Ass Man” and more.

Originally broadcast: 4/4/10

2: Royal Rumble 2000 review, Part 1

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 05:15:02 +0000

Jason Mann and Josh Hachat are back with part one of our in-depth review of Royal Rumble 2000. We talk about one of the best debuts in WWE history, the violent tables match that helped establish the Hardys and the Dudleys, the surprising length of time it took WWE to hire super-attractive women, Chyna’s terrible punches, the New Age Outlaws and the vortex of catchphrase hell and lots, lots more.

Originally broadcast: 4/4/10

1: Wrestlemania 26 review

wrestlespective@gmail.com (Jason Mann) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 04:13:50 +0000

Josh Hachat and Jason Mann break down the highs and lows of Wrestlemania 26 on Wrestlespective Radio. We talk about the awesomeness of Shawn Michaels vs. The Undertaker and whether it topped last year’s Match of the Year, discuss how Bret Hart vs. Vince McMahon never reached the heights we hoped it would, consider whether Edge deserves an immediate rematch with Chris Jericho, ponder why hated rivals John Cena and Batista had a straight wrestling match and concede that Randy Orton is pretty over as a babyface, even if he did make Ted DiBiase (Jr.) look like a goof.

Originally broadcast: 3/31/10