The Left Fist: pro wrestling from an unreservedly leftist angle

Covering AEW in trouble while Kenny Omega is working Jim Cornette, MJF might be working everyone, what's "part of the show" at WWE, and much much more! Don't forget to subscribe to ad-free content, for free, at https://www.patreon.com/theleftfist and check all Left Fist links at https://linktr.ee/theleftfist. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What a working week to cover! The Vince McMahon scandal continues while his nearest and dearest claim a “new era” for WWE, CM Punk finally speaks out, AEW’s released Wembley Stadium security camera footage backfires on them, and much much more! Don't forget to subscribe to ad-free content, for free, at https://www.patreon.com/theleftfist and check all Left Fist links at https://linktr.ee/theleftfist. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the Vince McMahon lawsuit, too many wrestling personalities treat the victims like an inconvenience, while AEW fire QAnon Kevin Kelly, bringing in Mercedes Mone, Kazuchika Okada, and Will Ospreay while the needle barely moves in the post-Punk era. Don't forget to subscribe to ad-free content, for free, at https://www.patreon.com/theleftfist and check all Left Fist links at https://linktr.ee/theleftfist. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Vince McMahon may finally be gone for good under TKO, but his son-in-law is still around. Meanwhile, The Rock messes up the Cody storyline, but the TNA locker room seemingly band together. Don't forget to subscribe to ad-free content, for free, at https://www.patreon.com/theleftfist and check all Left Fist links at https://linktr.ee/theleftfist. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Production personnel changes at WWE and AEW, the Elite still sore, CM Punk breaking records, and stooge Chris Jericho is likely hoping power will protect him. Don't forget to subscribe to ad-free content, for free, at https://www.patreon.com/theleftfist and check all Left Fist links at https://linktr.ee/theleftfist. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Following on from the last episode, AEW have given us Ric Flair, gotten rid of CM Punk, who boosts business for WWE, while QT Marshall leaves what appears to be a sinking ship if they don't plug the hole quick. Don't forget to subscribe to ad-free content, for free, at https://www.patreon.com/theleftfist and check all Left Fist links at https://linktr.ee/theleftfist. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tony Khan weaponises the sexual assault allegations against Vince McMahon while at the same time ignoring those against Ric Flair, who he's finally bringing in to AEW, NWA and TNA look to their pasts as they prepare for the future, and CM Punk talks about the need for a union in wrestling. Don't forget to subscribe to ad-free content, for free, at https://www.patreon.com/theleftfist and check all Left Fist links at https://linktr.ee/theleftfist. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The musician, teacher, philosopher, writer and wrestling fan DaN McKee talks about his new book, Anarchist Atheist Punk Rock Teacher, how wrestling informed his approaches to teaching, what wrestling can teach us about mutual aid, how wrestling could operate in an anarchist society, his experience at Wembley Stadium for AEW's All In, and so much more! Buy Anarchist Atheist Punk Rock Teacher: https://www.earthislandbooks.com/product-page/anarchist-atheist-punk-rock-teacher-by-dan-mckee Don't forget to subscribe to ad-free content, for free, at https://www.patreon.com/theleftfist and check all The Left Fist links at https://linktr.ee/theleftfist. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

AEW has exploded - or perhaps imploded - in spectacular fashion having been a company suffering for some time from backstage power-plays and politicking, and creative missteps, and now with their biggest star now gone, is this the end of the beginning or the beginning of the end for AEW? Why did Tony Khan "fear for his life"? Why do billionaires and businesses ruin wrestling for fans? And what magic of the artform still holds our interest? Don't forget to subscribe to ad-free content, for free, at https://www.patreon.com/theleftfist and check all Left Fist links at https://linktr.ee/theleftfist. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

An epic episode! Remembering the origins of "all-in" wrestling in Britain, WWF's SummerSlam '92 in Wembley Stadium, the punk pro wrestling show All In, and looking to AEW's version in the modern-day Wembley this weekend! Don't forget to subscribe to ad-free content, for free, at https://www.patreon.com/theleftfist and check all Left Fist links at https://linktr.ee/theleftfist. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Legend Terry Funk passed away this week aged 79, and Windham "Bray Wyatt" Rotunda dies age 36 after having Covid, which is still very much a threat. And while wrestling continues to seem to lose more top athletes in their prime than most major sports, we can look back and enjoy the creativity and artistry from such stars - from Funk's NWA title matches and a branding iron gimmick passed on to Bradshaw, to Bradshaw's New Blackjacks team with Windham, who in turn partnered with Mike Rotunda and Dan Spivey, wrestlers who would influence Bray Wyatt in incredible ways. Don't forget to subscribe to ad-free content, for free, at https://www.patreon.com/theleftfist and check all Left Fist links at https://linktr.ee/theleftfist. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A quick five minute announcement about The Left Fist - the challenges so far, and the future. Huge thanks to all listeners, to SmokeyTheBearr for contributing the title track to this point, and to everyone who has supported The Left Fist! https://linktr.ee/theleftfist Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

While so many workers, including in entertainment, are on strike, the rich and powerful in pro wrestling are bragging about their non-union status. But why are they calling themselves "unscripted" content? And where does Endeavor's Ari Emanuel stand on it all? Meanwhile, Dwayne Johnson makes an "historic" donation to the SAG-AFTRA strike fund - but someone named Grayson Waller thinks the Rock's unemployed. Please check out the artist behind our podcast track, SmokeyTheBearr - who you can find, with all the Left Fist links, here: https://linktr.ee/theleftfist Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Protect Trans Kids! That's the message on ice cream bar wrappers as CM Punk returns to AEW, and to the coincidental background noise of ice cream vans this episode asks: what part do dirtsheets have in perpetuating false narratives by following one another for second-hand information, the original source of which is dependent on a small yet influential locker room clique that have ensured Punk will now hear boos wherever he goes (including Chicago)? Please check out the artist behind our podcast track, SmokeyTheBearr - who you can find, with all the Left Fist links, here: https://linktr.ee/theleftfist Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Despite the serious scandals and alleged sexual misconduct, with "cancel culture" a myth moustachioed McMahon returns to WWE to merge it with the UFC under Endeavor's banner - and the ties to Trump are still there. So what might this merger mean beyond the megalomaniacal McMahons, and do the workers themselves have more hope for their careers in the ring alongside their counterparts competing in the octagon? Please check out the artist behind our podcast track, SmokeyTheBearr - who you can find, with all the Left Fist links, here: https://linktr.ee/theleftfist Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why those of us covering pro wrestling shouldn't allow industry contacts to compromise reporting the truth which is under attack by Twitter, why Mastodon can increase engagement, and notes on Dave Meltzer, David Bixenspan, Sean Ross Sapp, and Leslie Lee III. Please check out the artist behind our podcast track, SmokeyTheBearr - who you can find, with all the Left Fist links, here: https://linktr.ee/theleftfist Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lack of investment in pro wrestling coverage has left Vince McMahon to slime back into WWE offices to hit headlines preparing the company for a sale while his scandals sit behind the smokescreen. And even though the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia are more likely buyers as part of their sportswashing campaign, Tony Khan's AEW product is perhaps inadvertently being creatively prepared for a seamless merge with WWE's tainted product. But is there still chance of a boost from Mercedes Mone finally appearing in AEW? Please check out the artist behind our podcast track, SmokeyTheBearr - who you can find, with all the Left Fist links, here: https://linktr.ee/leftfist Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

MJF stopped The Firm to save Regal, telegraphing the Full Gear finish. But has the booking of MJF inadvertently attracted Cornette's conservative fan base? Plus, Tony Khan (intentionally or otherwise) publicly vindicates CM Punk, while rabid crowds continue the hate and the AEW EVPs stoke it. Please check out the artist behind our podcast track, SmokeyTheBearr - who you can find, with all the Left Fist links, here: https://linktr.ee/theleftfist Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's the 25th anniversary of the infamous Montreal Screwjob! What were the real causes? And how does it relate to events twenty-five years later? Please check out the artist behind our podcast track, SmokeyTheBearr - who you can find, with all the Left Fist links, here: https://linktr.ee/theleftfist Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As a morally bankrupt WWE reportedly poaches AEW talent, whether it be The Elite and CM Punk, or Sammy Guevara and Andrade, wrestlers are fighting with each other when they could be fighting for the rights they so desperately require. Please check out the artist behind our podcast track, SmokeyTheBearr - who you can find, with all the Left Fist links, here: https://linktr.ee/theleftfist Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A momentous arrival in AEW for Saraya promises a women's revolution - but the sexism remains as she is immediately held to standards that the men are not subjected to. Please check out the artist behind our podcast track, SmokeyTheBearr - who you can find, with all the Left Fist links, here: https://linktr.ee/theleftfist Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A look at the NWA and Jim Crockett Promotions, and how Vince McMahon hurt them, as we turn attention to the WWF in 1990 - Ultimate Warrior set up to replace Hulk Hogan, Dusty Rhodes feuds with kings and millionaires, Big Boss Man gets a push as a face while Akeem remains an embarrassment, Roddy Piper hits a low point, Sgt Slaughter turns heel as fans embrace a "Russian," and the Gobbledygooker debuts alongside someone called The Undertaker! Please check out the artist behind our podcast track, SmokeyTheBearr - who you can find, with all the Left Fist links, here: https://linktr.ee/theleftfist Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Everything finally came to a head in AEW this week, with conflict between CM Punk and the EVPs going from words to violence. What's the background? Who's really to blame? What can we take from this? How does this relate to Eddie Kingston and his suspension that may have set a bad precedent? And why is Triple H really enjoying it all so much? All this and more in this huge episode! Please check out the artist behind our podcast track, SmokeyTheBearr - who you can find, with all the Left Fist links, here: https://linktr.ee/theleftfist Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Further to previous episodes on embracing the featuring of all genders in pro wrestling, it's still important to ensure marginalised groups are represented, rather than lost in the shuffle. Please check out the artist behind our podcast track, SmokeyTheBearr - who you can find, with all the Left Fist links, here: https://linktr.ee/theleftfist Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The news this week is of an AEW in turmoil, and an improved WWE. But is this the whole picture? Has there really been "contract tampering"? What does the future really hold for the two big companies? And what can we really take from the rumours around CM Punk, Thunder Rosa, and Eddie Kingston? All this and more in this episode of The Working Week! Please check out the artist behind our podcast track, SmokeyTheBearr - who you can find, with all the Left Fist links, here: https://linktr.ee/theleftfist Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Yes, Vince McMahon is G-O-N-E! But how far removed is he really? We look at the incoming regime, changes they've made and might make, as well as quotes from CM Punk and report on Tony Khan's thoughts. Also: Should we expect a worked-shoot return from Sasha and Naomi? Please check out the artist behind our podcast track, SmokeyTheBearr - who you can find, with all the Left Fist links, here: https://linktr.ee/theleftfist Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Continuing the discussion on gender representation in pro wrestling: why it's time for terms like "ladies and gentlemen" to be dispensed with, inclusive language in introductions, commentary, and promos - and why titles and divisions having gender restrictions aren't helping, either. Please check out the artist behind our podcast track, SmokeyTheBearr - who you can find, with all the Left Fist links, here: https://linktr.ee/theleftfist Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The latest on the ongoing Vince McMahon allegations, the scourge of misogyny in pro wrestling going all the way back to Brutus Beefcake and the Rockers, Sasha Banks may be breaking free and demanding a handsome fee, plus PAC, Christian Cage, MJF and contracts! Please check out the artist behind our podcast track, SmokeyTheBearr - who you can find, with all the Left Fist links, here: https://linktr.ee/theleftfist Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's two years since Speaking Out, so let's talk about women's rights, Roe v. Wade, women beautifully browbeating Glenn "Kane" Jacobs, and the revival of the Rita "Marie" Chatterton allegations against Vince McMahon now being corroborated as New York Magazine follow up on the Wall Street Journal report. And we'll quickly cover Forbidden Door, CM Punk, and the fact the pandemic isn't over so wrestlers are still getting Covid. (CW: rape, first 2-3mins) Please check out the artist behind our podcast track, SmokeyTheBearr - who you can find, with all the Left Fist links, here: https://linktr.ee/theleftfist Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Discussing the implications of WWE's Board of Directors investigating Vince McMahon's hush money, Mercedes "Sasha Banks" Varnado possibly free from WWE, and the bad example of Cody Rhodes wrestling injured. Please check out the artist behind our podcast track, SmokeyTheBearr - who you can find, with all the Left Fist links, here: https://linktr.ee/theleftfist Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Discussing Sasha Banks and Naomi walking out of Monday Night Raw and WWE, Vince McMahon having Michael Cole bury them on TV, CM Punk's tweets and his awesome "abortion rights" t-shirt, Warner Bros Discovery and their deal with AEW, how that may relate to MJF's future, a quick overview of AEW shows this week, Joey Janela on fire (literally), and more. Please check out the artist behind our podcast track, SmokeyTheBearr - who you can find, with all the Left Fist links, here: https://linktr.ee/theleftfist Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Discussing King Kota, name changes, copyright in wrestling and how it relates to the issue between Bret and Martha Hart, Tony Khan's failure of diplomacy with Big Swole and now Hikaru Shida, indie talents Man Scout and Dan the Dad and how Danhausen is being introduced, wrestling's links to cabaret, Starrcast and "wrestling weekends," AEW Dark, Dynamite, Rampage, and more. Please check out the artist behind our podcast track, SmokeyTheBearr - who you can find, with all the Left Fist links, here: https://linktr.ee/theleftfist Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Discussing the divisions in pro wrestling based on gender - from the marginalised women's divisions, to creating categories based on gender binaries, and why we can instead learn from Lucha Underground and, present day, indie companies like Enjoy Wrestling and Industrial World Wrestling. Please check out the artist behind our podcast track, SmokeyTheBearr - who you can find, with all the Left Fist links, here: https://linktr.ee/theleftfist Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Discussing Candice LeRae leaving WWE, the differences between cuts and contract expiration, opportunities on the indies, the Forbidden Door, and AEW Dark, Dynamite, Rampage, and more. Please check out the artist behind our podcast track, SmokeyTheBearr - who you can find, with all the Left Fist links, here: https://linktr.ee/theleftfist Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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