The world of professional wrestling is a realm of high-flying action, intense drama, and unrelenting passion, captivating audiences worldwide with its unique blend of athleticism and entertainment. For fans seeking to delve deeper into the sport, beyond the televised matches and storylines, wrestling podcasts have emerged as an indispensable resource. These podcasts offer a platform for in-depth analysis, behind-the-scenes insights, and personal stories from wrestlers and industry experts. Among the myriad of wrestling podcasts available, some stand out for their quality, insight, and entertainment value. Here are five of the best wrestling podcasts that have garnered significant attention and acclaim from fans and critics alike.
1. The Steve Austin Show
Hosted by the legendary “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, this podcast embodies the toughness and straightforwardness that defined Austin’s wrestling career. The podcast is divided into two main formats: “Unleashed” episodes, where Austin shares his thoughts on various topics, often including wrestling, and “Interview” episodes, where he engages in conversations with a wide range of guests, from fellow wrestling personalities to musicians and other celebrities. Austin’s charisma and deep knowledge of the wrestling industry make his podcast a must-listen for fans. His ability to transition between humorous anecdotes and serious discussions about the wrestling business showcases his versatility as a host.
2. The Ross Report
Led by WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross, “The Ross Report” brings a wealth of experience and insight into the world of professional wrestling. JR, as he’s affectionately known, shares stories from his illustrious career, offers commentary on current wrestling events, and interviews a variety of guests, including wrestlers, promoters, and other figures from the wrestling universe. Ross’s warm, conversational style and his “okay” punctuations have become iconic, making the podcast feel like a personal conversation with one of wrestling’s most beloved voices. His analysis of wrestling matches and storylines is unparalleled, providing listeners with a deeper understanding of the sport.
3. The Solomonster Sounds Off
This podcast stands out for its critical and often humorous take on the current state of professional wrestling. Hosted by Solomonster, a veteran wrestling journalist, the podcast delves into the week’s biggest stories, analyzing them with a keen eye for detail and a willingness to challenge prevailing narratives. Solomonster’s passion for wrestling is evident, as is his desire to see the sport thrive, making his critiques both constructive and engaging. The podcast’s format varies, with episodes sometimes focusing on specific promotions like WWE, AEW, or NJPW, and other times exploring broader themes and issues within the wrestling world.
4. The Wrestling Inc. Podcast
For those seeking a comprehensive overview of the wrestling world, “The Wrestling Inc. Podcast” is an invaluable resource. Hosted by a team of experienced journalists and analysts, the podcast covers news, results, and analysis from all major promotions, including WWE, AEW, Impact Wrestling, and more. What sets this podcast apart is its dedication to providing balanced and fair coverage, Avoiding the sensationalism that can sometimes mar wrestling journalism. The hosts’ deep understanding of the wrestling business and their ability to place current events within a broader historical context make the podcast both informative and engaging.
5. Something to Wrestle with Bruce Prichard
Co-hosted by Bruce Prichard, a veteran of the wrestling industry who has worked behind the scenes in various roles, including as a writer and producer for WWE, and Conrad Thompson, this podcast offers a unique blend of insider knowledge and fan perspective. Each episode typically focuses on a specific topic or era from Prichard’s career, such as the Montreal Screwjob, the rise of Stone Cold Steve Austin, or the demise of WCW. Prichard’s stories, combined with Thompson’s probing questions and commentary, provide listeners with a fascinating glimpse into the behind-the-scenes politics, creative decisions, and personal dramas that have shaped professional wrestling.
Conclusion
These five podcasts represent the best of what the wrestling podcasting world has to offer: insider stories, critically informed analysis, and a deep passion for the sport. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a newcomer to the world of professional wrestling, each of these podcasts provides a unique window into the complexities, challenges, and triumphs of this captivating industry. Through their diverse perspectives and approaches, they enrich the fan experience, fostering a community that values discussion, critique, and above all, a love for professional wrestling.
What makes a wrestling podcast stand out?
+A wrestling podcast stands out through its unique blend of insider knowledge, critical analysis, and passion for the sport. Factors such as the host’s experience in the wrestling industry, the diversity of topics covered, and the engagement with the listener community play significant roles.
How often are new episodes of these podcasts released?
+The release schedules for these podcasts vary. Some, like “The Steve Austin Show” and “The Ross Report,” may release episodes weekly or biweekly, while others might have a less frequent schedule, depending on the hosts’ other commitments and the specific focus of the podcast.
Are these podcasts suitable for both new and veteran wrestling fans?
+Yes, these podcasts cater to a broad range of listeners, from those just discovering professional wrestling to longtime fans. They offer a mix of introductory information, in-depth analysis, and insider perspectives that can appeal to anyone interested in the sport, regardless of their level of familiarity.
