In this episode of the New to Wrestling podcast, hosts Xavier and Kelsey Silva explore the August 18, 1997 edition of Raw is War, offering a nostalgic journey through a night of unforgettable wrestling action. The episode kicks off with a thrilling match card featuring iconic duos like the Hart Foundation against the Legion of Doom, and culminates in a main event where unlikely tag teams Mankind and The Undertaker face off against Shawn Michaels and Hunter Hearst Helmsley. Throughout the show, Xavier and Kelsey share their insights and humor, discussing the dynamics of these legendary matches and the evolving storylines that captivated fans.

Listeners are treated to a mix of intense promos and unexpected alliances, with standout moments such as Rick Rude's bold declarations and the Nation of Domination's powerful presence. The hosts delve into the storytelling elements that make wrestling compelling, highlighting Shawn Michaels' fear of The Undertaker and the burgeoning partnership between Michaels and Helmsley. With their engaging commentary and deep appreciation for wrestling history, Xavier and Kelsey provide an entertaining and insightful look at this classic episode of Raw is War.

Match Card:

• The Hart Foundation (Owen Hart and the British Bulldog) vs. The Legion of Doom
• Flash Funk vs. Brian Christopher
• Ken Shamrock vs. The Sultan
• Jesse James vs. Brian Pillman
• The Patriot vs. Vader
• Mankind and The Undertaker vs. Shawn Michaels and Hunter Hearst Helmsley

Time Stamps:

• 0:00 Intro
• 6:12 Unlikely Tag Teams
• 12:42 Rick Rude's Insurance Promo
• 18:42 Legion of Doom vs. Hart Foundation
• 30:00 Brian Christopher vs. Flash Funk
• 36:01 Ken Shamrock vs. The Sultan
• 42:00 Nation of Domination's Bold Statements
• 48:00 Goldust and Marlena's Beach Segment
• 54:00 Vader vs. The Patriot
• 1:00:00 Stone Cold's Interview
• 1:06:00 Main Event: Shawn Michaels & Hunter Hearst Helmsley vs. Mankind & The Undertaker

The New To Wrestling Podcast follows two friends who enjoy wrestling but are in different stages of their fandom. Xavier Cruz serves as your guide through generations of professional wrestling while Kelsey Silva experiences these matches for the first time. Climb into the ring weekly to relive the famous matches beginning with the Attitude Era!

In this lively episode of the New to Wrestling podcast, hosts Xavier and Kelsey Silva revisit the August 11, 1997 edition of Raw is War, bringing a mix of humor and nostalgia to their analysis. The episode kicks off with a Halloween-themed introduction, as Xavier and Kelsey embody their favorite wrestling personas, Bret "Hitman" Hart and Dude Love. They guide listeners through a memorable match card, featuring Road Warrior Hawk's clash with Henry Godwin in a Country Whipping Match, and the main event showdown between Shawn Michaels and Mankind.

Throughout the episode, Xavier and Kelsey delve into the unfolding drama and iconic moments that marked the Attitude Era's beginnings. They discuss the unexpected twists, such as the Nation of Domination's evolving dynamics and the emergence of Degeneration X, highlighted by Rick Rude's return. The hosts also touch on the brewing tensions between The Patriot and Bret Hart, offering insights into the era's storytelling and character development.

With their engaging commentary, Xavier and Kelsey capture the essence of this pivotal Raw is War episode, blending historical context with personal reflections. Their enthusiasm and knowledge make for an entertaining listen, as they celebrate the era's legacy and its impact on wrestling history. Whether you're a seasoned fan or new to the wrestling world, this episode offers a captivating look at one of the most dynamic periods in WWE history.

Match Card:
- Road Warrior Hawk vs. Henry Godwin in a Country Whipping Match
- Scott Putzky vs. Tony Williams in a Light Heavyweight Division Match
- Flash Funk vs. Brian Pillman
- Ken Shamrock and The Patriot vs. The Hart Foundation
- Farooq vs. Chains
- Main Event: Shawn Michaels vs. Mankind

Timestamps:

• 0:00 Intro
• 5:06 Recap and Heartbreak Kid Interview
• 11:10 Country Whipping Match
• 18:27 Goldust and Marlena's Shattered Dreams Production
• 25:06 Dude Love Interview
• 32:52 Tag Team Match: Patriot and Ken Shamrock vs. Owen Hart and British Bulldog
• 39:26 Rocky Maivia Joins the Nation of Domination
• 47:05 Main Event: Shawn Michaels vs. Mankind
• 56:26 Undertaker and Kane's Imminent Arrival

The New To Wrestling Podcast follows two friends who enjoy wrestling but are in different stages of their fandom. Xavier Cruz serves as your guide through generations of professional wrestling while Kelsey Silva experiences these matches for the first time. Climb into the ring weekly to relive the famous matches beginning with the Attitude Era!

In this episode of the New to Wrestling podcast, hosts Xavier and Kelsey Silva explore the August 4, 1997 edition of Raw is War, offering a mix of humor and insightful commentary. The episode kicks off with a rundown of the night's match card, featuring Ken Shamrock's intense showdown with Kama Mustafa and a light heavyweight clash between Taka Michinoku and Brian Christopher. The hosts delve into the drama surrounding the Hart Foundation, with Bret Hart's controversial antics and Owen Hart's delusional claims taking center stage. They also discuss the unexpected twists, such as the Nation of Domination's shocking betrayal of Ahmed Johnson, adding layers to the ongoing storylines.

As the episode unfolds, Xavier and Kelsey provide a lively analysis of each match, from the comedic spectacle of Brian Pillman wrestling in a dress to the main event featuring Dude Love against Owen Hart. The hosts also touch on the evolving character arcs, including Shawn Michaels' new attitude and the looming presence of Kane, hinted at through subtle foreshadowing. With a blend of nostalgia and fresh perspectives, this episode offers wrestling fans a comprehensive look at the action-packed night, leaving them eager for what's next in the wrestling world.

Match Card:

1. Ken Shamrock vs. Kama Mustafa
2. Taka Michinoku vs. Brian Christopher
3. Hunter Hearst Helmsley with Chyna vs. Vader with Paul Bearer
4. The Patriot vs. The Sultan
5. Ahmed Johnson vs. Chains
6. The Godwins vs. The Headbangers
7. Bob Holly vs. Brian Pillman (in a dress)
8. Main Event: Dude Love vs. Owen Hart

Timestamps:

• 00:00:00 Introduction and Match Card Overview
• 00:06:00 Discussion on Hilary Duff Movies and Personal Growth
• 00:14:00 Recap of Bret Hart's Controversial Win and Hart Foundation's Delusion
• 00:22:00 Introduction of New Commissioner Sergeant Slaughter
• 00:30:00 Ken Shamrock vs. Kama Mustafa Match Recap
• 00:38:00 Hunter Hearst Helmsley vs. Vader Match Recap
• 00:46:00 The Patriot vs. The Sultan and Promo Analysis
• 00:54:00 Shawn Michaels' Interview and Undertaker's Response
• 01:02:00 Ahmed Johnson vs. Chains and Nation of Domination's Betrayal
• 01:10:00 Brian Pillman in a Dress vs. Bob Holly Match Recap
• 01:18:00 Main Event: Owen Hart vs. Dude Love and Stone Cold's Involvement
• 01:26:00 Closing Thoughts and Upcoming Storylines

The New To Wrestling Podcast follows two friends who enjoy wrestling but are in different stages of their fandom. Xavier Cruz serves as your guide through generations of professional wrestling while Kelsey Silva experiences these matches for the first time. Climb into the ring weekly to relive the famous matches beginning with the Attitude Era!

In this episode of the "New to Wrestling" podcast, hosts Xavier and Kelsey Silva take listeners on a nostalgic journey through the electrifying SummerSlam 1997, aptly titled "Heart and Soul." As they delve into the event, the hosts bring their unique perspectives to the table—Xavier, with his seasoned wrestling knowledge, and Kelsey, with her fresh eyes as a newcomer to the wrestling world. Their dynamic chemistry and engaging banter make for an entertaining exploration of one of WWE's most memorable pay-per-views.

The episode kicks off with a detailed rundown of the match card, setting the stage for the drama and excitement that unfolds. From the intense steel cage match between Mankind and Hunter Hearst Helmsley to the high-stakes bout between Stone Cold Steve Austin and Owen Hart, Xavier and Kelsey provide insightful commentary and personal reactions to each match. They discuss the surprising twists, the athletic prowess on display, and the emotional highs and lows that keep fans on the edge of their seats.

As the hosts navigate through the event, they also touch on the broader storylines and character developments that make wrestling a captivating spectacle. Kelsey's genuine reactions and Xavier's expert insights create a rich tapestry of analysis and entertainment, offering both seasoned fans and newcomers a fresh perspective on the world of wrestling. Whether you're reliving the nostalgia of SummerSlam 1997 or discovering it for the first time, this episode promises to be a thrilling ride through one of WWE's iconic events.

Match Card:

1. Mankind vs. Hunter Hearst Helmsley in a Steel Cage Match
2. Brian Pillman vs. Goldust (with a stipulation for Pillman to wear a dress if he loses)
3. The Godwins vs. The Legion of Doom in a Grudge Match
4. The British Bulldog vs. Ken Shamrock for the European Championship
5. Eight-Man Tag Team Match: Los Boriquas vs. The Disciples of the Apocalypse
6. Stone Cold Steve Austin vs. Owen Hart for the Intercontinental Championship
7. Bret Hart vs. The Undertaker for the WWE Championship, with Shawn Michaels as the Special Guest Referee

Time Stamps:

• 0:00 Intro
• 0:12 SummerSlam 1997 Match Card Breakdown
• 2:20 The Heart Foundation's Dominance
• 9:19 Mankind's Rise to Fan Favorite
• 11:55 The Evolution of Wrestling Cages
• 15:08 Mankind's Epic Cage Match
• 21:30 New Jersey's Wrestling Revival
• 24:03 Caribbean Beach Party Before SummerSlam
• 30:55 The Godwins' Confederate Flag Controversy
• 37:02 Ken Shamrock's Intense Match Against the British Bulldog
• 54:59 Stone Cold Steve Austin's Infamous Match
• 1:01:38 Jerry's Obsession with Match Stipulations
• 1:04:37 The Pile Driver Controversy
• 1:06:08 Stone Cold's Career-Altering Injury
• 1:10:37 Bret Hart vs. The Undertaker Match Drama
• 1:12:55 Shawn Michaels as a Referee
• 1:14:48 Michael Cole's Pursuit of Stone Cold
• 1:20:38 The Drama of Bret and Shawn Michaels

The New To Wrestling Podcast follows two friends who enjoy wrestling but are in different stages of their fandom. Xavier Cruz serves as your guide through generations of professional wrestling while Kelsey Silva experiences these matches for the first time. Climb into the ring weekly to relive the famous matches beginning with the Attitude Era!

Join hosts Xavier and Kelsey Silva as they dive into the July 28, 1997 edition of Raw is War, setting the stage for the highly anticipated SummerSlam. This episode features a packed match card, including the Legion of Doom versus Los Boriquas, the debut of the Truth Commission, and a main event showdown between the Patriot and Bret Hart.

Match Card:
- Legion of Doom vs. Los Boriquas (Tag Team Match)
- Truth Commission vs. Bob Holly, Flash Funk, and Jesse James (Six-Man Tag Match)
- Crush vs. Farooq (One-on-One Contest)
- The Godwins vs. Dude Love and Steve Austin (Tag Team Championship Match)
- Devin Storm vs. Ace Darling (Light Heavyweight Division)
- Goldust vs. Rockabilly
- The Patriot vs. Bret Hart (Main Event)

Listen in as Xavier and Kelsey explore Bret Hart's controversial interview, the escalating rivalry between Triple H and Mankind, and the ongoing faction warfare involving the Nation of Domination. The hosts also share their thoughts on the USA versus Canada storyline, the tag team championship match with Dude Love and Steve Austin, and the chaotic arm wrestling contest between Ken Shamrock and the British Bulldog.

With SummerSlam just around the corner, Xavier and Kelsey preview the exciting matches lined up for the event, including the steel cage match between Triple H and Mankind, and the high-stakes encounter between the Undertaker and Bret Hart. Don't miss this episode filled with humor, insights, and all the wrestling action leading up to one of the biggest events of the year!

• 0:00 Intro
• 2:40 Wrestling Factions and Feuds
• 28:37 Hunter's Bitchy Remarks and Wrestling Persona
• 36:55 The Charm of Dude Love
• 45:11 Bizarre WWE Arm Wrestling Segment
• 52:48 Undertaker's Unspoken Respect
• 1:00:55 Bret Hart's Unconventional Tactics
• 1:03:40 The Humiliation of Bret Hart
• 1:05:51 Anticipation for SummerSlam 1997

The New To Wrestling Podcast follows two friends who enjoy wrestling but are in different stages of their fandom. Xavier Cruz serves as your guide through generations of professional wrestling while Kelsey Silva experiences these matches for the first time. Climb into the ring weekly to relive the famous matches beginning with the Attitude Era!

Welcome and Introduction
- Hosts Xavier and Kelsey Silva introduce the episode, focusing on the July 21, 1997 edition of "Raw is War."
- Match card highlights include Vader vs. Ken Shamrock, a light heavyweight match between Brian Christopher and Brian Walshe, and a flag match featuring the Hart Foundation against the Undertaker, Dude Love, and Stone Cold Steve Austin.

Opening Vignette and Storylines
- Discussion on the black-and-white promo exploring Bret Hart's contrasting reception in different countries.
- Analysis of the brewing tension between Bret Hart and the Undertaker ahead of their SummerSlam title match.

Match Highlights and Commentary
- Vader vs. Ken Shamrock: Recap of their ongoing feud, including Ken's memorable takedown and Paul Bearer's interference.
- Brian Christopher vs. Brian Walshe: Commentary on Brian Christopher's performance and Jerry Lawler's humorous remarks.
- Three-Way Tag Team Match: Chaotic match featuring the Godwins, the Headbangers, and the New Black Jacks, with the Godwins emerging victorious.

Promos and Segments
- Hart Foundation Interview: Bret Hart's challenge to American wrestlers and his confrontation with Vince McMahon.
- Shawn Michaels Announcement: Michaels reveals his role as the special guest referee for the SummerSlam main event.
- Paul Bearer's Proof of Kane: Paul Bearer presents a half-statue as proof of Kane's existence, leading to skepticism from Jim Ross.

Main Event: Flag Match
- The Hart Foundation vs. Team America (Undertaker, Dude Love, Stone Cold Steve Austin).
- Highlights include Owen Hart's prolonged time in the ring and the Undertaker's surprise entrance.
- The Hart Foundation secures victory with Bret Hart capturing the Canadian flag.

Closing Remarks

- Xavier and Kelsey wrap up the episode, expressing excitement for upcoming matches and storylines.
- Acknowledgment of the audience's support and invitation to join the next episode.

• 0:00 Intro
• 0:49 The Battle of the Brians
• 2:14 Bret Hart's Dual Perception
• 5:00 Vader and Ken Shamrock's Ongoing Feud
• 6:02 Ken Shamrock's "Knuckle Up" Catchphrase
• 21:13 Stone Cold's Unconventional Tactics
• 27:29 The Mystery of the DOA Twins
• 28:43 Absurd Wrestling Monikers
• 37:10 Mick Foley's Multiple Personalities
• 50:46 The Patriot's Role in Wrestling
• 53:06 Bret Hart and Shawn Michaels Locker Room Drama
• 1:03:01 Goldust and Marlena's Witty Banter
• 1:07:10 Chaotic Wrestling Matches and National Anthem Controversy
• 1:14:48 Unlikely Wrestling Alliances

The New To Wrestling Podcast follows two friends who enjoy wrestling but are in different stages of their fandom. Xavier Cruz serves as your guide through generations of professional wrestling while Kelsey Silva experiences these matches for the first time. Climb into the ring weekly to relive the famous matches beginning with the Attitude Era!

This week, Kelsey and Xavier dive into the Netflix documentary on the larger-than-life Vince McMahon. From his rise as the wrestling world’s most influential promoter to the dark side of his empire, this episode is a deep dive into the triumphs and shocking controversies surrounding Mr. McMahon. Instead of a traditional play-by-play recap, we binged the entire series in one sitting and are here to dish out our raw, unfiltered reactions!

⚡ Is Vince McMahon the character and the man really so different?

⚡ The steroid trials, the Montreal Screwjob, family trauma, and the era-defining controversies.

⚡ Exploring his relationship with his children, including shocking moments about Stephanie and Shane.

Buckle up for a no-holds-barred discussion on one of the most talked-about figures in wrestling history. Grab your snacks and drinks—it’s going to be a wild ride!

This episode’s full of heated discussion, humor, and deep insights as the duo grapple with the impact of Vince McMahon’s legacy and the jaw-dropping revelations in the documentary.

• 0:00 Intro
• 0:17 The Vince McMahon Documentary Experience
• 7:04 Shane McMahon's Desperate Quest for Approval
• 15:56 Wrestling as a Reflection of Society
• 17:59 Vince McMahon's Business Tactics and Hypocrisy
• 22:34 Hulk Hogan's Legal Battle with Richard Belzer
• 24:08 Wrestlers' Exploitation and Unionization Efforts
• 31:07 Phil Mushnick's Criticism of Vince McMahon
• 32:26 Vince McMahon's Controversial Scandals
• 35:36 Rita Marie's Allegations and Legal Battles
• 39:21 Wendy Richter's Title Controversy
• 42:26 The Curtain Call Incident's Impact on Wrestling
• 48:36 Eric Bischoff's 83 Weeks and Its Legacy
• 1:00:00 Vince McMahon's Business Philosophy
• 1:04:13 Vince McMahon's Controversial Decisions
• 1:11:00 Paul Heyman's Insight on Vince McMahon
• 1:12:08 Vince McMahon's Controversial Storylines
• 1:14:26 Vince McMahon's Unprocessed Trauma
• 1:19:12 Sable's Return and Lawsuit
• 1:23:03 Vince McMahon's Controversial Leadership
• 1:24:50 The Pro Wrestling Influence on Politics
• 1:29:00 Vince McMahon as a Father Figure
• 1:31:43 Janelle Grant Lawsuit and WWE's Dark Secrets
• 1:40:16 Brock Lesnar's Alleged Involvement in WWE Scandal
• 1:45:24 WWE's Thriving Era Post-McMahon

Listen now wherever you get your podcasts! 🎧

The New To Wrestling Podcast follows two friends who enjoy wrestling but are in different stages of their fandom. Xavier Cruz serves as your guide through generations of professional wrestling while Kelsey Silva experiences these matches for the first time. Climb into the ring weekly to relive the famous matches beginning with the Attitude Era!

Join hosts Kelsey Silva and Xavier in this episode of the "New to Wrestling" podcast as they dive into the July 14, 1997 edition of "Raw is War." With Kelsey as the newcomer and Xavier as the seasoned fan, they explore the night's match card and share their candid reactions.

The episode features:

- Ivan and Scott Putzky vs. Brian Christopher and Jerry Lawler
- Taka Michinoku vs. Tajiri Yoshihiro
- Los Boricuas vs. The Headbangers
- Ken Shamrock vs. Jim "The Anvil" Neidhart
- Vader vs. Flash Funk
- The Legion of Doom vs. The New Blackjacks
- WWF Tag Team Championship: The Hart Foundation vs. Stone Cold Steve Austin and a mystery partner

0:00 Intro
7:03 Wrestling's Wild Contractual Stipulations
10:25 Brian Pillman's Provocative Promos
12:24 Bret Hart's Bold Stipulation for SummerSlam
17:14 Jerry Lawler's Family Drama
21:17 Mankind's Betrayal by Stone Cold
25:55 Tajiri and Taka's Wrestling Styles
31:33 Cultural Misrepresentation in Wrestling
33:57 Wrestling Match Dynamics and Highlights
43:52 Shawn Michaels' Unhinged Antics
45:14 Savio Vega's 'Terrible Accident'
48:02 Ken Shamrock vs. Jim Neidhart
53:59 Stone Cold's Lone Battle and Surprise Partner
55:08 Stone Cold Steve Austin's Reluctant Partnership
56:20 Mick Foley's Alter Egos in Wrestling
1:04:52 Anticipation for Vince McMahon Documentary

Expect lively discussions, unexpected twists, and a surprise debut that leaves the hosts thrilled. Tune in for a mix of humor, nostalgia, and wrestling insights.

The New To Wrestling Podcast follows two friends who enjoy wrestling but are in different stages of their fandom. Xavier Cruz serves as your guide through generations of professional wrestling while Kelsey Silva experiences these matches for the first time. Climb into the ring weekly to relive the famous matches beginning with the Attitude Era!