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  • The WWE Fandom Foolish Fantasy and Their Precocious Pandering (ep.876)

    The WWE Fandom Foolish Fantasy and Their Precocious Pandering (ep.876)
    2024/09/19
    Oh, the WWE fandom's guzzling the Kool-Aid, blissfully unaware that their beloved universe is now a playground for cash-hungry wrestling podcasts, all united in the pipe dream of erasing Vince McMahon’s "indelible" legacy. Let’s just pretend Cody Rhodes and Roman Reigns are the new “Super Powers”—as if we needed more forced nostalgia. Sheamus and Pete Dunne? Groundbreaking.

    Meanwhile, Judgment Day’s breakup teases us with all the drama of a bad soap opera, and CM Punk is out here rehashing Shawn Michaels' “Blaze of Glory” promo like it’s 1996. Jey Uso? Yeah, he’s paying “respect” to Bron Breakker’s “dog,” while conveniently forgetting his 14 years of championship wins. Oh, and we’re turning legends into jobbers. Natalya? Jobber. Braun Strowman? Jobber. New Day breakup? Because why not?

    Finn Balor? He’s not thrilled that Dominik left Rhea Ripley for Liv Morgan. Can you blame him? Big Bronson Reed tries to throw a guy at Braun Strowman, misses, and Braun no-sells it like a pro—classic WWE, right? Oh, and a golf cart got tipped over. This is what passes for feuds now. Don’t forget the 10 ambulances.

    Adam Pearce, clearly bored, decides that Sami Zayn should annoy Gunther next. Sami’s mission? Break up every faction in WWE—Bloodline, Alpha Academy, Imperium. That’s his thing now, apparently. Then there’s the 50/50 booking fiasco between Bianca Belair and Iyo Sky. It’s like WWE's allergic to making decisions.

    On the ratings front, FOX’s college football wiped the floor with RAW. Kansas State's boring win got 2.5 million viewers, while RAW limps in with 1.5 million. But hey, that's their golden number during football season, so no surprises there.

    CM Punk? He’s the new face of hot-shot booking NXT, no surprise Roxanne Perez can keep up with him. The latest trend? Slapping to start women’s title feuds. Original, right? Just ask Jaida Parker and Kehlani Jordan. And for those excited about Saturday Night’s Main Event returning in December, manage your expectations—it won’t live up to the delusional hype.

    The WWE Kool Aid that the fandom is drinking and the cash grabbers amongst my fellow wrestling podcast brethren are all in on the hopes of erasing Vince's legacy.

    Warner Bros. Discovery is “close to finalizing a package to renew" All Elite Wrestling and a formal announcement “could come as soon as next week, barring any last-minute challenges,” according to sources cited by John Ourand of PUCK. It “looks like it will be a four-year deal (three years guaranteed, plus an option)," and the $170M per year number “floating around wrestling message boards is apparently in the ballpark.” AEW matches will "air on TNT, TBS, and TruTV twice a week -- further evidencing” WBD CEO David Zaslav’s strategy of “making the latter two networks more valuable and sports-oriented in the cable bundle as the potency of TNT declines sans professional basketball rights.” This deal “marks a clear success for AEW,” which launched five years ago with a threshold WBD deal. AEW is also “pitching another package, primarily to broadcast channels,” but there is “no timetable for when AEW will start to push that deal" (PUCK, 9/16).

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    1 時間 13 分
  • WWE Bad Blood Being Built on Empty Hype and Exhausting Angles (ep.875)

    WWE Bad Blood Being Built on Empty Hype and Exhausting Angles (ep.875)
    2024/09/12
    * Wyatt Sicks ended American Made's run, now what? WWE has a habit of dropping storylines abruptly.
    * Judgment Day storyline continues with Rhea Ripley injured, adding to the group's long list of nonsensical plot points.
    * Jey Uso seems underutilized despite being part of the Intercontinental Title picture, proving yet again that WWE doesn't know how to handle tag team wrestlers going solo.
    * Bret Hart's appearance felt more like a way to trigger Sami Zayn's attack on Gunther, a predictable move considering WWE's love for cheap pops.
    * Pure Fusion Collective matches feel like filler content, another indication that WWE creative is struggling to produce compelling storylines.
    * Adam Pierce's informal address to the commentators is noticeable, perhaps another subtle dig at Vince McMahon's micromanagement tendencies.
    * Braun Strowman faces three smaller opponents, with Jey Uso's role unclear, further highlighting WWE's tendency to create confusing multi-person matches.
    * CM Punk's return and a World Tag Team Title match are the highlights for next week's Raw, let's just hope WWE doesn't ruin it with their usual brand of nonsensical booking.

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    48 分
  • AEW All Out with BCC Betrayal, Plastic Bags, Needles, Splinters and Cinderblocks (ep.874)

    AEW All Out with BCC Betrayal, Plastic Bags, Needles, Splinters and Cinderblocks (ep.874)
    2024/09/08
    AEW All Out 2024 was a night filled with thrilling matches and championship clashes. The main event saw Bryan Danielson retain his AEW World Championship against Jack Perry in a hard-fought battle. Blackpool Combat Club comes apart as a Moxley-led mutiny grows.

    In other title matches, MJF successfully defended his ROH World Television Championship against Daniel Garcia, The Young Bucks kept their AEW World Tag Team Championship against the Blackpool Combat Club, and Will Ospreay remained AEW International Champion after defeating PAC.

    Mercedes Mone retained her AEW TBS Championship in a match against Hikaru Shida, where Kamille was banned from ringside. Kris Statlander also emerged victorious in a Chicago Street Fight against Willow Nightingale.

    In a four-way match for the AEW Continental Championship, Kazuchika Okada successfully defended his title against Mark Briscoe, Orange Cassidy, and Konosuke Takeshita.

    Swerve Strickland and Adam Page clashed in a brutal Unsanctioned Lights Out Steel Cage match, leaving both men battered and bruised and Adam Page scored a knockout.

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    16 分
  • How WWE's Fumbled Booking Threaten to Tarnish New Broadcast Deals (ep.873)

    How WWE's Fumbled Booking Threaten to Tarnish New Broadcast Deals (ep.873)
    2024/09/05
    WWE's Current Strategy: Catering to the Arena, Not the Home Viewer. WWE seems to be prioritizing the in-person fan experience over expanding its television audience. The company's current storytelling and character development are geared towards generating excitement and reactions from those attending live events, often at the expense of creating engaging narratives for viewers at home.Evidence of this strategy:* No over-the-top storylines and characters: Current WWE storylines are often exaggerated and rely heavily on shock value and nostalgia, rather than nuanced character development and long-term storytelling. This approach can generate immediate reactions from a live audience, but can feel disjointed and confusing for viewers at home who may not be familiar with every reference or character.* Focus on in-arena moments: WWE's television broadcasts now often feature segments that are clearly designed for the live audience, such as extended crowd interactions, impromptu promos, and surprise appearances. While these moments can be thrilling for those in attendance, they can disrupt the flow of the show for viewers at home, making it difficult to follow the overarching narrative.* Lack of character depth: Many WWE characters currently lack depth and motivation, making it difficult for viewers to invest in their stories. The focus seems to be on creating larger-than-life personas that will elicit a strong reaction from the crowd, rather than developing well-rounded characters with relatable struggles and aspirations.Broadcast changes and their implications:* Netflix deal: While the recent deal with Netflix to air NXT could potentially introduce WWE to a new audience, the current focus on catering to the live audience may not translate well to a streaming platform where viewers are more likely to binge-watch and expect a more coherent storyline.* CW and USA Network: The move of SmackDown to the CW Network and the continuation of Raw on the USA Network presents an opportunity for WWE to reach a wider audience. However, the current approach to storytelling may alienate new viewers who are looking for more than just spectacle and shock value.Conclusion:WWE's current strategy seems to be focused on pleasing the existing fanbase and maximizing revenue from live events. While this approach may be successful in the short term, it risks alienating potential new viewers and hindering the company's long-term growth. If WWE wants to truly expand its audience and reach its full potential, it needs to find a way to balance the excitement of the live experience with the need for compelling storytelling and character development that will resonate with viewers at home.WWE's current narratives seem trapped in a cycle of never-ending feuds and missed opportunities. The storylines often feel predictable and stagnant, failing to create compelling drama or showcase the full potential of the talented roster.* Feuds That Refuse to Die: Several rivalries seem stuck in an endless loop, leaving fans feeling frustrated and bored. The Judgment Day and LWO saga continues to drag on, even incorporating Jey Uso without a clear direction. Similarly, the Wyatt Sicks and American Made feud with Alpha Academy as comic relief feels tired and predictable. CM Punk's pursuit of Gunther and Drew McIntyre remains unresolved, leaving fans questioning the purpose of the never-ending cycle of matches and promos.* Underutilized Talent: The roster is brimming with potential stars who are being sidelined or relegated to meaningless feuds. The Pure Fusion Collective feels directionless, despite their undeniable talent. Odyssey Jones, Kiana James, Teagan Nox, Lyra Valkyria, and Blair Davenport are all fading into obscurity, their initial promise overshadowed by a lack of substantial storylines.* Missed Opportunities: The Intercontinental Championship tournament lacks excitement and stakes, with Bron Breakker's absence further diminishing its importance. The women's division suffers from a lack of fresh feuds, as Bianca Belair and Jade Cargill continue their rivalry with the addition of Damage CTRL.Positives:* Joe Tessitore's Smooth Transition: Joe Tessitore's seamless integration into WWE's commentary team is a bright spot. His professional delivery and knowledge of the product bring a much-needed sense of polish to the broadcast.Overall, WWE's current creative direction leaves a lot to be desired. The focus on endless feuds and underutilized talent creates a sense of stagnation and predictability, leaving fans yearning for fresh stories and opportunities for new stars to shine.Contact KOP for professional podcast production, imaging, and web design services at http://www.kingofpodcasts.com and click on Podcast Production Services.Subscribing to KOPs YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@kingofpodcastsFind all past episodes, plus where to subscribe to and how to follow KOP on social media at www.kingofpodcasts.com/Become a supporter of this podcast...
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    54 分
  • Snoozefest in Deutschland: WWE Phones in Bash in Berlin

    Snoozefest in Deutschland: WWE Phones in Bash in Berlin
    2024/09/01
    WWE Bash in Berlin was a predictable, uneventful affair that felt like a glorified house show. The five matches on the card lacked the spark and drama that fans expect from a major pay-per-view event. Storylines leading up to the event were largely ignored, making it difficult to invest in the outcomes. While there were a few decent moments, the overall experience was underwhelming, leaving fans with little to remember from WWE's first foray into Germany.
    * World Heavyweight Championship: Gunther defeated Randy Orton to retain the title. * WWE Undisputed Championship: Cody Rhodes defeated Kevin Owens to retain the title. * Strap Match: CM Punk defeated Drew McIntyre. * WWE Women's Tag Team Championships: Bianca Belair and Jade Cargill defeated The Unholy Union (Alba Fyre and Isla Dawn) to win the titles. * Mixed Tag Team Match: Damian Priest and Rhea Ripley defeated Dominik Mysterio and Liv Morgan. *
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    15 分
  • WWE Factions Falter, Feuds Fail to Flourish, Benefits on Trip to Berlin (ep.871)

    WWE Factions Falter, Feuds Fail to Flourish, Benefits on Trip to Berlin (ep.871)
    2024/08/29
    Waning Warlords of the WWE: The Bloodline, once a dominant force, now feels diluted and directionless. Meanwhile, Judgment Day and the LWO seem to be in a competition for who can have the shortest members.
    Intercontinental Intrigue, or Is It? A packed field of IC Title contenders promises... something, maybe. But with names like Miz and Kofi in the mix, it feels more like a nostalgia trip than a thrilling title chase.
    Wyatt's Whimper: Remember when we cared about the Wyatt 6? Yeah, me neither."Macho Man" McIntyre and the Punk Posse: CM Punk, the Taylor Swift for men, is after Drew McIntyre's shiny bracelet. This feud has "weird heat," which is wrestling code for "we don't really get it either."

    Promo Purgatory: Drew McIntyre and Randy Orton's promos are longer than a Lord of the Rings marathon, and about as focused.
    Big Men, Big Fatigue: Bronson Reed and Braun Strowman are both looking more winded than a pair of asthmatic elephants. Crushing a used car? Yawn.
    NXT Notes and Nostalgic Farewells
    Uncle Howdy, Unimpressive: Uncle Howdy wrestles like a regular guy, not some spooky supernatural entity. Disappointing.
    *Roxanne's Readiness: Busted Open is split on whether Roxanne Perez is ready for the main roster. The real question is, is the main roster ready for her?
    *Rosemary's NXT Arrival: Rosemary is crossing over to NXT. Hopefully, she brings some of that spooky energy that Uncle Howdy lacks.
    *Remembering a Legend: RIP to the legendary SID. He will be missed.
    *Ratings Reality Check: Get ready for RAW's ratings to plummet for football. It's inevitable when the product is this underwhelming.
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    57 分
  • Bryan Danielson's Career Continuing Championship Win at AEW All In (ep.870)

    Bryan Danielson's Career Continuing Championship Win at AEW All In (ep.870)
    2024/08/26
    Wembley Stadium witnessed a historic night for AEW AllIn 2024. Bryan Danielson's story culminated in an emotional victory over Swerve Strickland, claiming the AEW World Championship and defying his career's end.

    The women of AEW shined bright. Mariah May stunned the world by dethroning Timeless Toni Storm, becoming the new AEW Women's World Champion. Mercedes Mone showcased her dominance, retaining the TBS Championship against Dr. Britt Baker DMD.

    Will Ospreay soared to new heights, capturing the AEW International Championship from MJF in a breathtaking clash. The Young Bucks, employing their signature tactics, retained their tag team titles in a chaotic three-way match.

    The night was filled with surprises. Nigel McGuinness made a triumphant return to the ring, while Ricochet debuted, sending shockwaves through the AEW landscape.

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    36 分
  • WWEs Fanatics Era or AEW All In Awaiting New TV Deal (ep.869)

    WWEs Fanatics Era or AEW All In Awaiting New TV Deal (ep.869)
    2024/08/22
    WWE Fanatics Fest: A curated crowd, curated content...curated cringe. Nia Jax's return? More like a throwback to awkward segments. South Florida fans? More interested in their phones than the ring. Gunther and Orton? Proof that any move gets a pop these days. Wyatt's win? Meaningless, except for the manufactured crowd reaction. CM Punk's promo? 5 minutes of filler before the 'real' message. Ivy Nile's declaration? I'm the Pitbull. Priest and Ripley's new name? Terror Twins? More like trying too hard to be edgy. Axiom and Frazer's win? Just another example of parity booking where everyone's mediocre. Fatal Attraction's revamp? Less 'Fatal Influence', more 'failed attempt'.Nia Jax celebration with some Pretty Deadly cringe.South Florida Fair-weather fans for RAW in Fort Lauderdale.Crowd watching Gunther and Randy Orton just cheer for anything.Fanatics Fest is comprised of the WWE Fandom that they think resembles the audience they want to create and cater to.Wyatt Sicks wipe out American Made and it means nothing except the crowd.5 minutes to get to the part of the CM Punk promo where he calls for a strap match. He's Taylor Swift for Men. That bracelet really means a lot.Ivy Nile says I'm the Pitbull.Damien Priest and Rhea Ripley are now the Terror Twins. Wonder Twin PowerAxiom And Nathan Frazer Defeat Duke Hudson And Riley Osborne of Chase U, May Have Earned NXT Tag Title Shot. Parity booking makes no one better.Fatal attraction resurrected by the least popular member to become Fatal Influence.AEW All In: Wembley's the place to be this Saturday! Dynamite in Cardiff? A good show with a genuine crowd. Baker and Mone? Finally recovering from that messy storyline. The Learning Tree? Prepped and ready for Hook. Saraya and Starks' contract rumors? Just fuel for WWE fans' wishful thinking. MJF and Ospreay? Now THAT'S a feud done right. Passionate promos, character development, and a match built on more than just moves. The 'American Champion' gimmick? MJF's taking notes from Jericho on how to stay relevant. Tiger Driver 91? A lingering threat adding to the tension. The closing line? A mic drop moment that's got everyone talking.AEW All In at Wembley Stadium is Saturday Dynamite in Cardiff was a nice look with a good crowd.Dr Britt Baker DMD and Mercedes Mone recover from an inconsistent storyline.Learning Tree prepped for FTW title match with Hook.The rumble about Saraya and Ricky Starks and their AEW contracts are low hanging fruit for the disgruntled WWE fandom wishing to see them get mediocre runs with HHH.MJF has helped to build more passionate poignant promos out of Will Ospreay. This match will be built than just workmanship and that will help escalate this match. Great promos with the American champion gimmick. He's learned from Chris Jericho on how to evolve his character. Tiger Driver 91 still a factor that will come up in this match. A lot of heat for the go home. Based on the closing point that facts don't care about your feelings.The card for “AEW: All In” on Sunday, August 25, includes the following matchups:AEW World Championship: Swerve Strickland (c) vs. Bryan DanielsonAEW Women’s World Championship: Toni Storm (c) vs. Mariah MayAEW American Championship: MJF (c) vs. Will OspreayAEW TBS Championship: Mercedes Mone (c) vs. Britt BakerAEW TNT Championship Coffin Match: Jack Perry (c) vs. Darby AllinAEW World Tag-Team Championship: The Young Bucks (c) vs. FTR vs. The Acclaimed AEW Trios Championship “London Ladder Match”: The Patriarchy (c) vs. House of Black vs. The Bang Bang Gang vs. Mystery Team TBAFTW Championship: Chris Jericho (c) vs. HOOKCasino Gauntlet: Orange Cassidy, More Competitors TBAWillow Nightingale & Tomohiro Ishii vs. Kris Statlander & Stokely Hathaway (Zero Hour) Contact KOP for professional podcast production, imaging, and web design services at http://www.kingofpodcasts.com and click on Podcast Production Services.Subscribing to KOPs YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@kingofpodcastsFind all past episodes, plus where to subscribe to and how to follow KOP on social media at www.kingofpodcasts.com/Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wrestling-is-real-wrestling-podcast--1559158/support.
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    58 分