The Retro Wrestling Archive Podcasts

Tony Myers joins Brian Tramel for a new episode of the flagship show “Shootin’ The Shiznit” for Episode 713! Tony & BT talk about moving from New Jersey to wrestle for Memphis Wrestling, being a fan, training, his hardcore promotion and much more. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

It’s time for a brand new episode of “Shootin’ The Shiznit.” Ric Davies joins Brian Tramel for episode 125. Davies is also known as Dave Duponte in the Michigan indie scene and has been friends with BT for over 30 years. Davies talks about becoming friends with BT, tape trading, discovering Georgia Championship Wrestling, going to live events, going into the Navy, getting into the wrestling business, Al Snow, meeting BT’s friend in Puerto Rico and much more! A fun 40 minutes ! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

The Retro Wrestling Re-View WCW Podcast continues as Gene Jackson and Bob Anderson head to Nashville, Tennessee for WrestleWar ’89: Music City Showdown, a pay-per-view caught right in the middle of WCW’s turbulent early 1989 transition period.Coming off Clash of the Champions VI and the abrupt firing of George Scott, WCW presents a show that feels directionless at times, yet still manages to feature flashes of brilliance. Gene and Bob break down a strange, uneven card highlighted by Ric Flair vs. Ricky Steamboat for the World Heavyweight Championship with judges at ringside in case of a draw, The Great Muta shows a TON of potential already, Terry Funk officially igniting his legendary 1989 feud with Flair, and an unexpected U.S. Title change involving “Mike P.S. Hayes” and “the Total Package” Lex Luger.Along the way, the guys discuss:* WCW’s creative uncertainty/insanity in early 1989* Flair vs. Steamboat and the post match attack NO ONE saw coming* Terry Funk’s table spot that flips the switch on WCW ’89* Doug Gilbert stepping in for Junkyard Dog* Varsity Club overload and other questionable booking decisions* Why WrestleWar ’89 is a look at an odd moment in WCW historyIt’s a show full of contradictions part classic, part chaos and Gene and Bob break it all down with humor, context, and plenty of side commentary.Check out Gene & Bob’s fun wrestling comedy/parody promotion “Outlaw Rasslin Federation that ran for 52 episodes!https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLj5Zx1HZR2NlpRtuhrXoBImFRp50GjsIE&si=VJoiV4c87yIsZn_7 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

It’s time for a brand new episode of “Shootin The Shiznit.” This is the 4th show in the “Let’s Talk Shiznit on the Dirt Sheets” series. Episode 101 features Paul MacArthur talking about the Wrestling Perspective. BT & Paul talk about when he started being a fan, they did not do news, started doing interviews, how many subscribers ?, how many issues ?, why did they stop? and more. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

It’s Tuesday and it’s time for a new episode of “Shootin The Shiznit.” This week from one of the top downloaded wrestling podcasts Conrad Thompson joins BT for Episode 49, Season 3. Conrad talks about “Something to Wrestle” with Bruce Pritchard, “What Happened When” with Tony Schiavone, Ric Flair, podcast stats, Jim Cornette, Dave Meltzer, Chris Jericho, Konnan, the city tour and much more. SHARE! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

It’s time for Episode 59 of Shootin The Shiznit. Brian Tramel is joined by Scott Bowden to talk about Lance Russell, Jerry Lawler, Kentucky Fried Rasslin, Bam Bam Bigelow, being a manager in Memphis, Lawler & Bowden as a team, heat with Dave Brown on Randy Hales, things not to say backstage at Memphis Wrestling, cutting promos on each other in high school, the hair match and more for an action packed 48 minutes This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

This week’s “special edition” of Shootin The Shiznit is dedicated to Lance Russell. Brian Tramel puts clips together in this episode all about Lance. He also sits down with Brian Thompson and “The Golden Boy” Greg Anthony to talk about Lance. A great segment from longtime friend Steve Beverly and more wraps up 43 minutes of Episode 58. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

It’s time for the December edition of WTF News Desk, where Brian Tramel and Gene Jackson once again attempt to make sense of a wrestling world that absolutely refuses to make ANY sense.This month’s episode is loaded with bizarre headlines, questionable takes, accidental fires, stolen megaphones, star ratings that defy logic, and just enough real wrestling insight to remind you that yes, unlike similar shows......these guys actually know what they’re talking about.On this month’s WTF News Desk:* The annual WTF-inator Award, and why the winner somehow won it without even being in WWE all year this year* Dave Meltzer’s star ratings, injury stats, and definitions of “heat” that spark another round of what the f*?* AEW vs WWE ratings talk, Tony Khan optimism, and Dave doing mental gymnastics to explain it all* The referee controversy everyone argued about… and why the ref actually did his job* John Cena retirement discourse, grifters crawling out of the woodwork, and lawsuit timing that feels way too convenient* WrestleCade madness: stolen megaphones, missing belts, and convention chaos* Ric Flair drunken cameo embarrassment, Darby Allin setting his brother ON FIRE, and fans spending way too much money on bad ideas* Nikki Bella rumors, social media nonsense, and why wrestlers should stop oversharing* A deep (and funny) breakdown of what “heat” actually means in wrestling — from people who’ve lived it and experienced itAs always, this isn’t a news show in the traditional sense — it’s a monthly therapy session for wrestling fans trying to survive the internet age.If you like your wrestling commentary:✔️ Smart✔️ Sarcastic✔️ Old-school leaning✔️ And completely unimpressed by bad takes…then you’re in the right place.📌 New episodes monthly📌 Full shows and exclusives on Patreon📌 Like, subscribe, and embrace the madness This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

It’s time for a brand new episode of “Shootin The Shiznit.” This is the third show in the “Let’s Talk Shiznit on the Dirt Sheets” series. Episode 99 features Jon Gallagher talking about the Wrestling Forum. BT & Jon talk about when Jon started being a fan, what inspired him to start the wrestling zine, how many subscribers?, why did it end?, the process of putting the newsletter together, wrestling conventions, Paul Heyman story & more. Join us for 40 minutes of a fun show. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

It’s time for a “special edition” of “Shootin The Shiznit.” On Episode 71 Brian Tramel sits down with Steve Beverly again for part 2 of his interview to talk about why did the 80's change wrestling?, wrestling and technology, Eddie Gilbert, Dusty Rhodes, WCW hotline, Missy Hyatt, a nasty phone call from Tom Zenk, Lance Russell, Wrestling Observer hotline, Freddy Miller and more in this 43 minute show. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Gene Jackson and “Broadcast” Bob Anderson head down to New Orleans for Clash of the Champions VI: Ragin’ Cajun, one of the strangest, longest, and most uneven Clash shows of the era — but also one of the most historically important.This episode features a deep dive into:• The Steamboat vs. Flair two-out-of-three falls World Title match• Why the “Family Man” presentation of Ricky Steamboat never quite worked• The Samoan SWAT Team replacing chaos with even more chaos• The Midnight Express opening yet another Clash with a 20-minute match• The Great Muta casually ruining a man’s eyesight before the opening bell• Junkyard Dog vs. Butch Reed and the official JYD Bump Counter™• Why half the card is missing and why that might be a blessing• WCW’s obsession with nerve holds, long openers, and crowd killing pacingAlong the way, Gene and Bob veer into classic territory talk, nostalgia tangents, hair critiques, robe rankings, and the ongoing realization that 1989 WCW is equal parts brilliance and self sabotage.If you love WCW history, Clash of the Champions deep cuts, and honest, sarcastic retro wrestling commentary, this one’s for you.Check out Gene & Bob’s fun wrestling comedy/parody promotion “Outlaw Rasslin Federation that ran for 52 episodes!https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLj5Zx1HZR2NlpRtuhrXoBImFRp50GjsIE&si=VJoiV4c87yIsZn_7 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

It’s time for a brand new episode of “Shootin The Shiznit.” On Episode 70 Brian Tramel sits down with Steve Beverly to talk about Matwatch history, why did he stop publishing Matwatch?, his time as a fan, how many subscribers did he have, why TV ratings meant everything, Monday Night Wars, calls about wrestling and more in this 40 minute show. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

It’s time for a new episode of “Shootin’ The Shiznit!” STS brings you the 2nd Annual “Memphis In May.” Brian Tramel is joined by Randy Hales for Episode #218. In the first part of this interview, Randy talks about starting Power Pro, Memphis jobbers, wrestling terms, “secret” handshake, Danny Hodge, commentating, and much more! Mark Southern also stops by to talk about this weekend’s show This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

It’s time for a new episode of “Shootin’ The Shiznit!” STS brings you the 2nd Annual “Memphis In May.” Brian Tramel is joined by Randy Hales for Episode #218. In the second part of this interview, Randy talks about Kofi/Bryan, Facebook Live, smart fans, Giant Silva, Cody Rhodes, Dean Ambrose, Lawler traps BT in the dressing room, Lawler/Hales split, Doug Gilbert promo, and much more! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

It’s time for a brand new episode of “Shootin The Shiznit.” This is the first show in the “Let’s Talk Shiznit on the Dirt Sheets” series. Episode 95 features JD McKay to talk about Ringside Reflector. BT & JD talk about the start of JD becoming a fan, all the wrestling he could watch, going to live shows, starting the newsletter, number of subscribers, putting it together, quitting the newsletter, “where are they now?” and more! 33 minutes of fun!! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

It’s time for a brand new episode of “Shootin’ The Shiznit.” Derrick King joins Brian Tramel for episode 123. DK returns this month after his “Memphis in May” series appearance. Derrick talks about Brandon Baxter, Power Pro Wrestling, Ohio Valley Wrestling, Brock Lesner, Shelton Benjamin, Randy Orton, Jim Cornette, Alan Steel, Wrestling with Death, a strip club story and much more! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

It’s Tuesday and time for Episode 37, Season 3 of Shooting The Shiznit! It’s long time professional magazine photographer Mike Lano ! Brian and Mike talk about Philly fan gathering, PWG, current indies, first time he photographed wrestling, old fan clubs, smart fandom origin, photos of Mick Foley and much more. 40 minutes of fun!! SHARE!! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Gene Jackson and Broadcast Bob are back, caffeinated, sarcastic, and mentally damaged after surviving Clash of the Champions V. But fear not for today the boys dive into the far more historic (and FAR more watchable) Chi-Town Rumble 1989… even if they do have to sit through the 20 minute Michael Hayes vs. Russian Assassin marathon first.This episode covers:Ricky Steamboat vs. Ric Flair – The Beginning of the Greatest Trilogy of All TimeSteamboat’s back, baby! Richie Jr.’s trying to cut his own promo, Bonnie’s out there looking like she’s ready to collect Flair’s alimony, and The Dragon is about to kick off a legendary three match arc that still holds up today.Michael Hayes vs. Russian Assassin (Jack Victory Watch™ Continues)A 20 minute armbar extravaganza!Michael hits a sunset flip for the first time since the Carter administration.Jack Victory is just getting started this evening…..Sting vs. Butch ReedA botched clothesline so bad Sting audibly apologizes mid-match.Hiro Matsuda contributes absolutely nothing in Butch’s corner.Midnight Express vs. The Un-Original Midnight Express w/Paul E. DangerouslyDennis Condrey is MIA.Cornette cuts a promo for the ages.Stan’s “educated feet” strike again!Bobby Eaton proves, once again, he’s in a league of his own!Mike Rotunda vs. Rick Steiner – TV Title MatchA Steiner match overshadowed by a random man in a ski mask stealing the hardcam shot for ten straight minutes.The crowd is either coked out, confused, or both.Plus:• Magnum TA’s mullet steals the show!• Paul Heyman attempts to explain WCW continuity (and nearly succeeds!)• Bob’s story about Ring of Honor crowds demanding SNAPMARES and getting them!• A full burial of Dino Bravo (deserved)• The Tennessee Spot™, explained in detail• Why 1989 WCW was held together with duct tape, Jack Victory, and George Scott’s marathon squash matchesIf you enjoy deep cut wrestling nerdery mixed with absolute nonsense, hit LIKE, leave a COMMENT, and subscribe for Episode #4 coming soon!!Check out Gene & Bob’s fun wrestling comedy/parody promotion “Outlaw Rasslin Federation that ran for 52 episodes!https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLj5Zx1HZR2NlpRtuhrXoBImFRp50GjsIE&si=VJoiV4c87yIsZn_7 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

It’s Tuesday and time for another new episode of Shooting The Shiznit! Episode 33, Season 3 features Bullet Club member “Crown Jewel” Chase Owens! BT & Owens talk about being trained by Ricky Morton, working different styles by listening to the crowd, his feud with Jason Kincaid, the critics, joining New Japan and the Long Beach shows. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

It’s Tuesday and it’s time for a new episode of the Best Lil Wrestling Podcast in The Bizness!! Dave Prazak joins Brian Tramel for Episode 20, Season 3. They talk about Shimmer, AAW, DVD sales, promoting tapings, promoting in Memphis and why has the Shimmer title only changed 12 times in 12 years? This is fun 30 minute packed episode. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

It’s Tuesday and it’s time for a new episode of Shooting the Shiznit. “Superfan” Kerry Morris joins Brian Tramel on Episode 14, Season 3 as they talk about attending 17 Manias, the people in the crowd you see every week and Kerry even tells us about the buttheads he has met. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

In the 2nd episode of their WCW podcast, Gene Jackson and “Broadcast” Bob Anderson take a deep dive into a Clash of the Champions that WCW probably wishes we’d all forget. But they’re here to remind everyone that it did and they can’t take it back.From Magnum TA’s immaculate hair, to Flair losing his clothes (again), to Jack Victory wrestling twice in two different masked gimmicks, this show is WCW 1989 in full “Dusty’s gone, George Scott is still living in the 70s, and it seems we’re all f***ed!” mode!In this episode:• Midnight Express vs. Russian Assassins – Jim Cornette nearly fights Paul Jones, and Bob breaks down mullet competition physics• The marathon that is Butch Reed vs. Steve Casey: 17 minutes you’ll never get back• Lex Luger vs. The Blackmailer, the worst named gimmick of the year, and another Jack Victory Special• The Flair/Steamboat brawl featuring tons of hair spray, ripped clothes, and Flair doing the same promo for the 4000th time, WOOOOO!• The Varsity Club: why Kevin Sullivan in full “Taskmaster” mode managing “college athletes” still makes zero sense• Why they Flair isn’t the GOAT, why Terry Funk could be, and the lost art of being a chicken sh** heelThis is pure Retro Wrestling Re-View chaos with plenty of sarcasm, deep cuts, trivia, and the kind of fun Gene and Bob bring to you each and every episode, no matter how bad the show they’re watching is (remember, they reviewed twelve episodes of Herb Abrams’ UWF Fury Hour, seriously it’s called the UWF Fury Cast…look it up!)Check out Gene & Bob’s fun wrestling comedy/parody promotion “Outlaw Rasslin Federation that ran for 52 episodes!https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLj5Zx1HZR2NlpRtuhrXoBImFRp50GjsIE&si=VJoiV4c87yIsZn_7 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

BT is joined by Blue Meanie in a conversation about trips to Memphis from Philly as a fan with Rasslin Radio in the early 90s. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Welcome back to the UWF Fury Cast, the ONLY podcast bold enough to step back into the bizarre, chaotic, cocaine-fueled world of Herb Abrams’ UWF so YOU don’t have to.In Episode #21, Gene Jackson breaks down one of the wildest UWF Fury Hour episodes yet, featuring:🔥 Chris Michaels hitting lucha-style offense on Captain Badd🔥 The Power Twins squashing job guys and confusing Captain Lou Albano🔥 Don Muraco vs. Dusty Wolfe (plus Bruno obsessing over Wolfe’s weight loss)🔥 A surprise Dr. Death attack AND the “It’s a one-by-six!” Bruno moment🔥 Steve “Wild Thing” Ray giving dating updates🔥 Cactus Jack & Bob Orton teaming up under John Tolos🔥 Wet & Wild bringing full surfer energy🔥 A surfboard shot that splits Cactus Jack open on TV🔥 A main event that descends into total chaos and has… absolutely NO FINISH!🔥 Another forced replay of the Lumberjack Match because Herb ran out of content ……again!This episode is peak-UWF insanity featuring blood, brawling, surfboards, non-sensical promos, and the usual Herb Abrams “What the f*** is happening right now?” production choices.If you’re enjoying the UWF Fury Cast, hit LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more reviews of the most unpredictable promotion in wrestling history! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Brian Tramel sits down with Alan Steel for a new episode of “Shootin’ The Shiznit” for Episode 442! In this episode of “Conversations” they talk about Championship Wrestling from Memphis for the first 11 weeks. This an episode to celebrate our 4th Annual “All episodes Memphis. In May.” This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Richard & Josh from P3 RADIO join Brian Tramel for a new episode of “Shootin’ The Shiznit” for Episode 408 ! In this debut episode of “Sunday Conversations” they talk about Richard winning the Shiznitter championship, Championship Wrestling from Memphis, USA Championship Wrestling and much more in a quick 22 min conversation. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Gene & BT break down 10 absolutely insane stories that had the entire wrestling world asking one thing…WHAT. THE. F***!?!?This episode includes:🔥 Wild backstage rumors🔥 A shocking retro revelation nobody saw coming🔥 A major star caught in a bizarre situation🔥 Fans losing their minds in the worst way🔥 A top name doing something so outrageous you have to hear it to believe it🔥 The moment that nearly broke the internet🔥 And the story that might define the entire yearIf wrestling got weird this month — it’s in this episode.👇 Listen now and drop YOUR biggest WTF moment of the month! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Kevin White joins Brian Tramel for a new episode of “Shootin’ The Shiznit” for Episode 354 !!! Kevin & BT talk about his Dad, being a fan, training with Bill Dundee, Memphis Wrestling, the new “Nature Boy,” ratings, biggest show, bass fishing, Brian Christopher, Su Yung, Richard Lee, Spellbinder, Eric Wayne and much more !! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Retro Wrestling with American Kickboxer/Izzy High aka “Uncle Frank” (Pt. 2)Nearly one year after one of the most impactful interviews ever on this channel, Uncle Frank known to wrestling fans as American Kickboxer and Izzy High returns for the most powerful conversation we’ve ever shared on Retro Wrestling with Gene Jackson, this is the first time he’s done an interview as the man behind the personas and this is as REAL as it gets!This isn’t just a wrestling interview.This is a human conversation about survival, trauma, healing, creativity, gratitude, and rediscovering life after the ring.In this emotional, no walls up discussion, Uncle Frank opens up about:✓ His childhood, trauma, and the painful truth behind his seizures✓ How wrestling both shaped him and cost him✓ His identities as American Kickboxer & Izzy High and why he chose this interview to speak as the man behind the “mask”✓ The hidden psychological toll wrestlers live with every day✓ The philosophy, positivity, and stoicism that guides his life✓ The creation of his long-awaited new book “Gypsies Are Real: Wrestling is Predetermined, Not Fake”✓ How writing the book helped him process decades of buried memories✓ The importance of giving people their flowers while they’re still here✓ Wrestling’s con artist culture vs. its chosen family bonds✓ The “POP”, why performers chase it and what it really feels like✓ Mentoring the next generation and what it means to him✓ The joy of producing shows and watching his students thrive✓ His podcast lineup, ECUSA TV, JCW Lunacy, Tarek the Great, Madman Pondo, and much moreThis episode is deep, emotional, funny, heavy, inspiring and sometimes all in the same minute. If this interview helps even one person, then it has purpose far beyond wrestling.➡ PREORDER THE BOOK:Gypsies Are Real: Wrestling is Predetermined, Not Fakehttps://tinyurl.com/izzyhighbook➡ Connect With Uncle Frank:Check out WMW Podcast and the Rezin Podcast at www.substack.com/@thcdoggHitting the Books (on ECUSATV)JCW Lunacy – Thursdays, 7 PM right here on YouTube!Clock Towers (Tarek the Great’s music project) also here on YouTube!➡ Follow the Retro Wrestling Archive for more interviews, reviews, and classic territory footage every week!PLUS: TONS OF EXCLUSIVE RETRO WRESTLING CONTENT: Check out our Patreon at www.patreon.com/retrowrestlingarchive This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Your boy Gene Jackson went WAY over the 10 minute limit on this one, because this episode of Memphis Championship Wrestling was absolutely overflowing with action, characters, fights, insanity, and typical Memphis mayhem! There was just too much great stuff to leave out.Inside this extended breakdown:* The K.A.W. crew opens the show with threats, beer, and chaos!* The Mean Street Posse are ready for the Kick Ass Crew!* The Mullets vs. The Kingpins turns into a MUSIC VIDEO PREMIERE mid match* Bobcat vs. Jasmine St. Claire devolves into a wild scene with special referee ‘The Kat’* The Fabulous Rocker challenges the “smallest guy in Memphis wrestling”… and Hollywood Little answers the call!* Lawler & Dundee reluctantly accept an offer from an unexpected tag team partner* And the main event erupts into classic Memphis chaos with Lawler chasing K-Krush (R-Truth/Ron Cena) into the arena seatsThis was one of the most over the top, fun, and absolutely unhinged MCW episodes yet and the review had to run long just to do it justice. Thank you as always for supporting the Retro Wrestling Archive! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

“Real Deal” Neil Taylor joins Brian Tramel for a new episode of “Shootin’ The Shiznit” for Episode 407 ! Neil & BT talk growing up as a fan, first time they met, wrestling angles that would not work today, IWF, RRO list, Memphis Legends, Memphis Wrestling is back and much more ! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

It’s time for the “special edition” of “Shootin’ The Shiznit.” Brian Tramel is joined by wrestling legend Ricky Morton for the “Month of Morton” ROCKTOBER ! They bring you the Cool Kids Countdown Ep 91: “BT’s Top 10 Favorite Tag Teams of All Time” for Episode 379. BT lists his teams as Ricky Morton comments on them with insight only he can give about working these teams ! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

In the premiere of our brand new WCW series, Gene and “Broadcast” Bob fire up a collection of January 1989 TV footage and start the long entertaining journey through one of the wildest years in wrestling history.This Patreon version includes the full watch along video (with NO ADS) letting you see everything Gene & Bob are reacting to from Kendall Windham’s treachery to Abdullah slaughtering Randy Hogan with a “Sudanese Meat Cleaver.”In this episode:• Kendall Windham turns heel and seemingly nobody (but Bob gets in a great line about his Kendall’s hairdo)• JYD takes exactly one bump and nearly dies doing it• The Fantastics, the Original Midnight Express, the cordless phone incident, and Cornette hate crimes• Abdullah the Butcher vs. Randy Hogan… which becomes an anatomy lesson nobody asked for• A wild Bobby Fulton “Sheik of Araby” story straight from Bob’s time ring-announcing• Jack Victory Watch™ officially begins• Steamboat returns as “Mr. X,” pins Flair, and kicks off the most celebrated wrestling trilogy of the decade• Why Clash of the Champions V is… well… something we will all survive togetherThis episode is a perfect blend of nostalgia, deep cut wrestling geekery, and the kind of fun comedy mixed with insight from years of wrestling fandom that only Gene and Bob can produce.Enjoy the video version over on Patreon, this first episode will be available there for FREE starting on Saturday November 22nd at 5:05pm cst/6:05pm est for EVERYONE to preview and get a feel of watching the show rather than just listening. Afterwards, the audio episodes will be available on all podcast platforms for free and the VIDEO WATCHALONGS will be available exclusively on PATREON for paid members of the $5 tier and aboveCheck out Gene & Bob’s fun wrestling comedy/parody promotion “Outlaw Rasslin Federation that ran for 52 episodes!https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLj5Zx1HZR2NlpRtuhrXoBImFRp50GjsIE&si=VJoiV4c87yIsZn_7. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

In this week’s UWF Fury Cast, Gene Jackson dives into Episode 20 of Herb Abrams’ UWF Fury Hour, featuring the long awaited Lumberjack Match: Paul “Mr. Wonderful” Orndorff vs. “Dr. Death” Steve Williams which somehow still ends in the most Herb Abrams way possible: in a match designed to prevent that exact outcome.The episode kicks off with a bizarre hype package clearly intended to sell the UWF to TV stations rather than fans, complete with claims of “no frills, no gimmicks” while showing a guy using a chain.From there, Gene breaks down:🔥 Key Moments This Episode* The “station-pitch” hype reel stuffed in to pad runtime* Captain Badd looking like a bargain bin luchador while Don Muraco ROCKS him* The Lumberjack Match chaos, favoritism at ringside, weapons, blood, and a suitcase gets involved* UWF logic: heel interference, ref knocked out… ref wakes up and DQs Dr. Death anyway so WTF was the point in the knock out in the first place!?!?* Orndorff challenges Dr. Death to a steel cage match, comparing winning by DQ to “kissing your mama” (ok, Paul)* The always excited Herb Abrams announces the cage match sounding like someone cut his coke with sedatives (what a rib!)And somehow, that’s only the halfway point.Other Segments Include:* Captain Lou “inventing” the Wet & Wild tag name a week after it was already used* The Power Twins squash + promo from Danny-DeVito-esque (at least in stature, not in entertainment value) manager Rick Golden* Ask The Wrestler w/ John Tolos reflecting sincerely on his feud with Freddie Blassie in LA back in the dayThe episode closes with yet another replay of Lumberjack highlights to fill time… because UWF aired the main event second for reasons no human may ever fully understand.This is UWF at its most chaotic and creatively confusing.New episodes weekly. Like, subscribe, and follow along as we subject ourselves to Herb Abrams so you don’t have to. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

It’s Tuesday and it’s time for a new episode of Shootin the Shiznit. “Double Trouble” episode as BT is joined by “Action Jackson” Perry Jackson talking about Memphis Wrestling, Puerto Rico, GWF, Butch Reed, Harlem Heat and a fun story about the Undertaker. Also John McAdam drops by to talk meeting Bill Apter, Cool Kids, convention in Memphis, growing up as a fan, Young Bucks and much more in Episode 56 for 41 action packed minutes. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

It’s Tuesday and it’s time for Episode 39, Season 3 of Shooting the Shiznit. Bob Barnett joins BT to talk about the first EVER shoot interview with Eddie Gilbert, his thoughts on the death of Gilbert, being in Tijuana (Konnan, Vampiro and more) for shows and BT tells a story of someone threatening to stick a barbed wire baseball bat up his….well you just have to listen to find out! SHARE!! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

In this year’s Observing the Observer, BT and Gene Jackson sit down for the STSPod annual deep dive into the Wrestling Observer Newsletter Hall of Fame ballot, a tradition that BT has kept going for seven of the past nine years which, in wrestling math, counts as consistency.This episode covers everything from ballot quirks to surprise inductions to the names that still can’t crack the Hall after years of being included on the ballot.BT and Gene open the show with their personal picks across every category: Historical, Modern, Japan, Mexico, Europe, and Non-Wrestlers before breaking down the 2025 class and reacting to the surprises, snubs, and “who in the hell is this guy?” moments.Topics include:• Their full ballots and reasoning behind each choice• Why JYD and Sputnik Monroe STILL aren’t in (and will they ever be?)• The AJ Styles rule and why they refuse to vote for currently active wrestlers• The case for Bill Dundee, the Steiner Brothers, Sabu, Adrian Street, and more!• CM Punk and Cody Rhodes going in while still active and why it feels “wrong”• The Observer’s influence on fans, voting patterns, and entire generations of wrestling fandom• The Young Bucks already being Hall of Famers before the Hart Foundation, Arn & Tully, and the Von Erichs and why that makes Gene physically illPlus:• Podcasting philosophy• Why wrestling fans at conventions are usually unbearable• And why neither host is trying to “get over” anymore—they’re just here to talk wrestling and have a good time.BT and Gene give honest, unfiltered takes you won’t hear anywhere else and whether you agree with them or not, it’s guaranteed to be entertaining. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

It’s Tuesday and it’s time for Shooting The Shiznit!! In Episode 9, Season 3, Kevin Lawler sits down with BT in part 1 of the STS Mania series. Join us for 30 minutes while Kevin talks about wrestling soon to be HOF’er Kurt Angle, the popularity of the Rock N Roll Express and the creation of the Christmas Creature. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

It’s Thursday and it’s time for a special edition of STS. Episode 38, Season 3 is a “Flashback” episode with audio from 2011 as Gene Jackson’s podcast “Cheap Heat Radio” joined by Brian Tramel, Derrick King, Cody Melton and Kevin Lawler to review the movie Memphis Heat and talk about Memphis Wrestling. Brian also discusses why people still are stuck in the past and presents “Story time with BT.” This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

What happens when someone sends you a box of cassettes from the 1990s? You put them out as a podcast ! Sit back and take a trip to the past for Cassette Wrestling News. “Stone Cold” Steve Austin called this the first ever podcast ! These cassettes were mailed every issue to subscribers during the heyday of wrestling fanzines. Jeff Osborne & John Seaton would sit down and put out an episode of zany fun and sometimes some serious stuff. Join us for Chris Cruise and usual gang of CWN for this episode. Originally sent out to customers in June, 1990. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

On this week’s episode of The UWF Fury Cast, Gene Jackson dives headfirst into one of the most bizarre and bloody installments of The Fury Hour yet, Episode #19! From Dr. Death Steve Williams bleeding for no reason to identical twins with identical bald spots brawling with the “Beach Boys of Wrestling,” this one is pure 1991 UWF insanity.Episode Highlights:* Dr. Death opens the show by absolutely murdering Carmine Albano (and somehow busting himself open in the process).* The debut of Wet & Wild, a tag team that looks like backup dancers from a Beach Boys video versus the Power Twins, who might actually be feuding with their own bald spots.* Captain Lou Albano’s Captain’s Corner gets completely hijacked by Cactus Jack, who cuts one of the most unhinged promos in UWF history.* Cowboy Bob Orton vs. B. Brian Blair: the feud that just won’t die (even if the crowd already has).* Referees getting knocked out, random DQs, and Herb Abrams screaming at wrestlers for no reason, so you know, the usual.Gene breaks it all down with his trademark sarcasm, southern humor, and genuine disbelief that any of this ever made TV.👇 Subscribe for more retro wrestling madness!📺 YouTube.com/@RetroWrestlingArchive💥 Patreon.com/RetroWrestlingArchive for early access, watchalongs, and the infamous HOT MICS post-shows! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Bill Rush joins Brian Tramel for a new episode of the flagship show “Shootin’ The Shiznit”! On this episode, BT sits down with former Memphis wrestling referee and wrestler Bill Rush to reflect on his lifelong passion for the sport and his experiences in the USWA territory. From watching Saturday morning wrestling with his family in the ’70s to working with legends like Jerry Lawler, Bill Dundee, and Eric Embry, Rush shares stories of his early training on outlaw shows, his transition from wrestler to referee, and his unforgettable moments in the ring—including taking a dangerous top-rope piledriver from Embry on live TV. The conversation dives deep into the culture of Memphis wrestling, the camaraderie and chaos behind the scenes, and how one fan’s childhood dream to be part of the business actually came true. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

It’s time for a new episode of “Shootin’ The Shiznit!” STS brings you the 2nd Annual “Memphis In May.” Brian Tramel is joined by Jerry Jarrett for Episode #214. Jerry talks about Blytheville, AR, Fabulous Ones, the new Fabs, getting out of wrestling, Olympus Wrestling Reality Show, Jarrett Parson’s Wrestling TV Roku channel, scaffold match, Bruce Prichard and much more!! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

What happens when someone sends you a box of cassettes from the 1990s? You put them out as a podcast ! Sit back and take a trip to the past for Cassette Wrestling News. “Stone Cold” Steve Austin called this the first ever podcast ! These cassettes were mailed every issue to subscribers during the heyday of wrestling fanzines. Jeff Osborne & John Seaton would sit down and put out an episode of zany fun and sometimes some serious stuff. Join us for Episode 11: Jerry Lawler “Brian Tramel is a fat piece of shit.” Originally sent out to customers in May, 1990 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

It’s time for the 100th episode of “Shootin’ The Shiznit” and for this episode we have Jeff Jarrett and a WWE HOF Roundtable!Jeff talks about his first meeting with BT, asking a question at the gimmicks table, talks about HOF, who will induct him in the HOF?, is Jeff ready for the last run?, who would you want to work for the final run?, fantasy booking, tagging with Billy Travis vs Paul Diamond & Pat Tanaka and more!The second part of the show, BT is joined by Lance LeVine, Brian Thompson and Jo Jo Feeney to talk WWE HOF. In roundtable format, they each have a pick for “who should be in?” and “who should be out?”Enjoy 33 minutes of a fun episode !! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

This is the 4th & final episode of our 6th Annual ROCKTOBER! This year we do a music podcast, then a wrestling podcast about The Rock! It’s time for a “special edition” of STS ! “Was It Really THAT Good?” E33, Episode, 998. Long time wrestling fans always talk fondly of the old days in professional wrestling, so Gene Jackson and Brian Tramel have joined forces to take a look at wrestling shows on YouTube. This episode Brian Tramel is solo and he takes a deep dive into the Rock singing for Can You Smell What The Rock Is Singing? This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

It’s time for a brand new episode of “Shootin’ The Shiznit!” Brian Tramel sits down with Memphis legend “Superstar” Bill Dundee for Episode 182! Dundee joins BT to talk about backstage, kayfabe, booking for Mid South Wrestling, meeting with the WWE & Undertaker keeping him from going there, pulling a gun on Savage, running a strip club, working as a tag team wrestler, BT/Dundee story, how to book Dundee, and more. A fun 40 mins! Find all the archives at stspod.club. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Brian Tramel was joined by Steve Crawford for the flagship show “Shootin’ The Shiznit.” They talk about: Tony Myers, college buddies, Ray Russell, meeting Bobby Eaton, NWA convention, Memphis Wrestling in 1977 and much more! 5.22.25 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

It’s time for a new episode of “Shootin’ The Shiznit.” Brian Tramel and Gene Jackson bring you “THE WTF News Desk.”Gene and BT bring you an insider’s perspective to the bizarre happenings in the squared circle. From outlandish storylines to mind-bending maneuvers, THE WTF News Desk is your go-to source for all things unconventional in the fight world. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

In this special milestone episode, Gene Jackson sits down with his friend, Co-Author, and Tag Team Legend Wolfie D for a candid, unfiltered conversation about their brand new book, 'A Tale of Two Wolves'. Gene and Wolfie pull back the curtain on how the project came together, the wild summer of co-writing Wolfie's life story, the personal battles and emotional breakthroughs that fueled Wolfie’s story. From memories of Brian Christopher, Ace Frehley, and Road Dogg, the car wreck that eventually spawned the Slash character, the epic rise of the 'Disciples of the New Church in TNA, to the fallout of PG-13 and Wolfie’s fight for redemption this episode provides background on almost every chapter! You’ll hear about: How A Tale of Two Wolves came to life (and blew past 330 pages!) What Wolfie learned digging into his past, addiction, and recovery Inside stories of TNA’s Disciples of the New Church, Brian Lee, Belladonna, and Father James Mitchell How the forwards came together with Jeff Jarrett and James Mitchell along with an afterword from Nick "U-Gene" Dinsmore The lost “Ace Frehley moment” that he shared with his buddy Brian Christopher *** Order the book: tinyurl.com/WolfieDBook *** This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit retrowrestlingarchive.substack.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★