AEW Unrestricted Season 5, Episode 51: Backstage Stories

Top AEW TV Matches of 2023

Will & Ref Aubrey break down their favorite AEW TV matches of 2023 including the Tribute to Jay Briscoe on Dynamite; the FTR vs The Bullet Club Gold Best of 3 Falls on Collision; the BCC-Best Friends Parking Lot Street Fight on Rampage; Bryan Danielson & Rush’s bloody battle on AEW Dynamite Fight Night; Kenny Omega’s return to the ring vs El Hijo del Vikingo on Dynamite; the Kenny Omega-Jon Moxley Steel Cage Match; and the Bryan Danielson-Ricky Starks Texas Death Match on Collision, among many other awesome matches!

49 min

Scott Garland

Scott Garland is the newest AEW coach and producer, and shares his coaching philosophy and style, and explains what he thinks it takes to successfully work with young talent. He also talks about how he came to AEW, the role that Sonjay Dutt played in that process, and what it’s like to work alongside Tony Khan. He has stories about his own start in wrestling, and transitioning from performer to coach. And he reveals whether a return to in-ring performance is in his future.

46 min

Rise To The Top

East Side Games’ Lead Narrative Designer Jamie Henwood is a former professional wrestler turned video game enthusiast who helped develop the new mobile game, AEW: Rise To The Top. Jamie explains how she got involved in the project, what it was like working so closely with AEW Referee Aubrey Edwards on AEW: Rise To The Top, and why she’s so excited about this new idol battle game. She talks about the animation design, the story beats, and some of her favorite lines and game play moves. She also shares some incredible stories from her days in professional wrestling including what it was like training at the famous Hart Dungeon in Calgary!

45 min

Anthony Ogogo

Anthony Ogogo had a last-minute moment in front of his hometown crowd at AEW All In London, and explains how it came together with Paul Wight and Kip Sabian. He talks about the injury that sidelined him early at AEW, his recovery path, and what he hopes to accomplish this year in wrestling now that he’s healthy. He details his boxing career from how he got started to qualifying for the Olympics to winning the bronze medal at the 2012 Games to the brutal eye injury that ultimately ended his career. And he shares his AEW journey including the roles that both Diamond Dallas Page and Cody Rhodes played in it, along with Tony Khan’s initial idea for Anthony that also involved Chris Jericho. Plus, Anthony makes the case for why he’s the best 30-match novice in pro-wrestling, and he lays out his plans to become the “next, next” James Bond!

50 min

Deonna Purrazzo

One of Deonna Purrazzo’s childhood dreams came true when her surprise AEW arrival happened in her home state of New Jersey in front of her family and a very hot crowd! She talks about the whirlwind night including how quickly it came together, and what it was like keeping it a secret. She shares stories from her AEW Collision debut match against Red Velvet, and what made it so different from her main event match against Mercedes Martinez on AEW Dynamite back in 2022 before she was even signed to AEW. Deonna also has plenty to say about “The Virtuosa,” death matches, Toni Storm, Saraya, and Chris Jericho.

50 min

Rachael Ellering

Rachael Ellering loves to joke that her killer ROH match against Willow Nightingale for the NJPW Strong Women’s Championship in Orlando also helped get her fiancée, Chris Hero, signed to AEW. Rachael Ellering shares the story of her AEW and ROH journey, and what it’s been like to team with Leyla Hirsch, and work with everyone from Mercedes Martinez and Diamante to Athena and Billie Starkz, and Lexy Nair! She also talks about her power lifting career, her famous father, her “Uncle Hawk,” and training with Lance Storm.

49 min

Lexy Nair

Lexy Nair is a proud Minion graduate, and explains what it’s been like to work so closely with Athena and Billie Starkz at ROH. She’s also the backstage interviewer for AEW Collision, and shares the story of the Private Party durag. She explains how she came to wrestling, and AEW specifically, later in life thanks to her stepdad, Diamond Dallas Page, what MJF said to convince her to be included in one of his early angles at AEW, when she knew Big Bill (aka William Morrissey) was “the one,” and why she LOVES the AEW locker room!

50 min

Best Sting Matches & Moments

Sting’s FINAL match of his career is Sunday, March 3rd at AEW Revolution, and in honor of the bittersweet milestone, Ref Aubrey & Will Washington take a look back at some of their favorite Sting matches at AEW. They share some great behind-the-scenes stories and memories about Sting’s AEW debut at Winter Is Coming in December 2020, his first AEW Revolution appearance in 2021 when he and Darby Allin took on Team Taz in that incredible cinematic match, the important Double or Nothing 2021 match against The Men of The Year, and the Sting & Darby vs Jericho & Sammy Guevara ladder match. They also reveal what Sting has meant to AEW as a company, and the locker room specifically, and the importance of AEW Revolution 2024 taking place at Greensboro, North Carolina.

40 min

Bryan Danielson, Samoa Joe, and Danny Garcia Preview AEW Revolution

AEW Revolution is this Sunday, March 3rd live at the Greensboro Coliseum in Greensboro, North Carolina! The history-making card features Sting’s final match of his career, an epic battle between newly-All Elite Will Ospreay and Konosuke Takeshita, and many AEW championships on the line! Current AEW World Champion Samoa Joe joins to preview his big title defense in a three-way match against Hangman Adam Page and Swerve Strickland. He also comments on Sting’s extraordinary career and legacy. Daniel Garcia has plenty to say about his upcoming bid for the TNT Championship against The Patriarchy’s Christian Cage, and the role that “Daddy Magic” Matt Menard has played in his life and career. And The American Dragon Bryan Danielson has a few choice words for Eddie Kingston ahead of his challenge for Eddie’s Continental Crown Championship.

50 min

Johnny Loves Taya

Johnny Loves Taya, starring Johnny TV and Taya Valkyrie, is the new, original scripted comedy series running on AEW’s YouTube Channel. Taya & Johnny explain what inspired the idea, how they pitched it to AEW, and what it’s been like to film. They talk about their puppy co-stars Presley and Bowie, shark parties, parkour injuries, Bearicane, John’s Hot Girl Valet era, and why they chose to base everything on their real lives! They also share stories about the Johnny Loves Taya theme song, the rom-com marketing posters, Slam Town, ROH, Dalton Castle, Killswitch, RJ City, Johnny Valkyrie, and amazing exits!

45 min

Bryan Keith

Bryan Keith is ripping faces off at AEW! The Houston native recalls his first AEW opportunity in Texas in a match against former AEW World Heavyweight Champ Hangman Adam Page, and the role that Top Flight’s Darius Martin played in making that happen. He talks about his introduction to wrestling, training at PWA with Booker T, the evolution of his Bounty Hunter character, and the Sammy Davis, Jr. television role that inspired it. Bryan also speaks to his Swishahouse sponsorship, his love of Japanese wrestling, his recent trip to Japan to work for DDT, and the first time he met Bryan Danielson.

48 min

Harley Cameron

Harley Cameron has some specific opinions when it comes to cutlery on live TV (knifey-spoony, anyone?), and a few theories on how she ended up at AEW so quickly after deciding to become a wrestler! She talks about training with Shawn Spears, the AEW Dark match that led to her signing, developing her original AEW character to take on The Acclaimed, and bringing both her rap and flirting skills to the ring! Harley also talks about learning from Billy Gunn, honing her comedy chops, and adapting her professional singing career experience to work in a wrestling ring! Plus, Harley shares the story behind teaming up with Saraya, how she and Mariah May became besties in real life, and what led to her performing comedy bits on the Jericho Cruise with Colt Cabana and RJ City!

50 min

Queen Aminata

Queen Aminata speaks 4 languages, has a Master's degree in Private International Law, and is the first-ever African-born woman to be signed to a major wrestling company! Aminata shares the story of how she came to the United States, what made her want to pursue wrestling, how her culture and homeland inspired her character, and why her AEW signing made her cry. She talks about her friendship with Skye Blue, wrestling in Japan, and the life lessons she’s learned from Kobe Bryant!

40 min

Billie Starkz

It’s Billie Starkz versus Queen Aminata for the inaugural ROH Women’s Television Championship at Supercard of Honor tomorrow, Friday, April 5th in Philadelphia, and Billie joins to talk about the importance of the championship and what it would mean for her to be the first-ever title holder! Billie talks about her AEW debut on Dark and how that eventually led to her signing, how & when she found out she was challenging Jade Cargill for the TBS Championship at Battle Of The Belts VI, and what it was like to be a competitor in the first-ever Owen Hart Foundation Women’s Tournament. She also details her storyline with Athena, what inspired the whole minion storyline, and how she managed to keep a straight face in the ring when Lexy Nair became the valedictorian at the minion graduation ceremony. Plus, Billie talks about starting her pro wrestling training at the age of 13, balancing high school and her wrestling career, and what she learned (and loved) about wrestling in Japan.

41 min

Mike Mansury

AEW EVP and Head of Global Production Mike Mansury shares a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to bring AEW to your TV screens every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday! He also details Revolution and the preparation and care that went into Sting’s final match and retirement, including his sons’ involvement in the show, the archival footage of Surfer Sting from New Japan, and making sure Dr. Martha Hart felt comfortable with Sting doing one final repel into the ring! Mike talks about his first-time in the director’s chair, his headset style, his relationship with Tony Khan, working with the other EVPs, Nicholas and Matthew Jackson, producing a live stadium pay-per-view in another country (All In London), and Mercedes Mone’s electric debut in Boston. Plus, Mike reveals what inspired the throwback branding for Dynamite200 as well as the new set designs for AEW Dynamite and Collision for 2024.

AEW Dynasty Preview

AEW Dynasty is this Sunday, April 21st! The stacked card features an epic showdown between AEW World Champion Samoa Joe and Swerve Strickland, and Swerve explains his confidence going into this match, and the work he’s done in preparation to ensure he walks away with title in hand. Willow Nightingale has plenty to say about challenging Julia Hart for the TBS Championship, and all that Kris Statlander and Stokely Hathaway have done to support her quest for championship gold. She also comments on new friends Adam Copeland, Eddie Kingston and ROH World Champion Mark Briscoe. Plus, there’s discussion about the rest of the card. And there’s a special message from a very special VIP guest.

55 min

Adam Copeland

The Rated R Superstar Adam Copeland recounts his surprise debut at AEW WrestleDream, and shares how he passed the time while hiding out near the venue before his entrance. He talks about guerilla-filming his intro vignette with Darby Allin around the Seattle area, how they secured the muscle car, and why it was so important for him to debut with his “Metalingus” theme music. Adam also shares how his acting career has helped his return to wrestling, how the pandemic influenced his in-ring storytelling and promos, and who in the AEW locker room he’s most looking forward to working with. He also comments on the TNT Championship, Sting, moves versus memories, and that hockey fight during his I Quit match with Christian Cage.

49 min

Will Ospreay

The Aerial Assassin Will Ospreay is finally All Elite, and recounts the deciding factors that led him to sign fulltime with AEW. He talks about traveling back and forth from the UK to the States for AEW shows and why it’s so important for his home base to be in London. He has stories about his match with Chris Jericho at All In at Wembley Stadium in front of a massive home crowd, working Takeshita at Revolution, his Forbidden Door match before officially signing with AEW, the words of wisdom imparted to him from Kenny Omega, and wrestling in silence in Japan during the pandemic. He also explains what it’s been like to adjust to TV-style wrestling at AEW, learning how to be a good promo, his influence on younger wrestlers, and the role that the Assassin’s Creed video game played in his wrestling gimmick.

48 min

Team Psych’s Dr. David Reiss, Chris Manzione, and Jimanekia Eborn

It’s Mental Health awareness month, and Team Psych offers plenty of tips and tools to help you and the AEW talent roster and staff cope with anxiety, stress, and the struggles that come with the world of social media, and work-life balance. Director of Performance Psychology Chris Manzione, Mental Health Specialist Jimanekia Eborn, and renown psychiatrist Dr. David Reiss talk about their individual approaches to mental health, how they work with each other to offer the best care and support to AEW talent and staff, and what you can do if you’re struggling with mental health issues. They talk self-soothing versus self-care and the importance of both, the benefits of just sitting in silence and existing, how to handle social media, the impact that injuries and rehab on mental health, and what they do to combat the stigma around mental health, and ensure a safe, secure environment for those who seek help.

50 min

All Elite Arcade

Chugs (aka Adam Cole) & Evil Uno co-host the new podcast, All Elite Arcade, and discuss a fraction of what you’ll hear on their weekly show! They share the video games and consoles that got them into gaming as kids, debate the merits of Xbox vs Playstation vs Switch vs PC gaming (and yes, they each have a favorite), recommend the best games to try if you’re new to gaming, and reveal the games they’re actively playing now! There’s discussion about VR, Sega Genesis, Wii, mobile games, and video games turned into TV series and movies (like The Super Mario Brothers Movie, The Last Of Us, Fall Out, and Sonic the Hedgehog).

48 min

Double or Nothing Preview

The EVPs, Matthew and Nicholas Jackson, send thoughts and prayers to Tony Khan and Eddie Kingston, share a few words of warning about Scapegoat Jack Perry, and preview their new sneaker collab with Reebok. AEW International Champ Roddy Strong also joins to detail his plan to defeat Will Ospreay using both mental and physical warfare in the ring. Serena Deeb outlines her strategy to strip Timeless Toni Storm of the AEW Women’s Championship, and explain why she’s the better choice to be the face of the AEW Women’s division. Plus, analysis on Orange Cassidy versus Trent Beretta, Bullet Club Gold versus Death Triangle, Jon Moxley and Takeshita in the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship Eliminator match, Adam Copeland defending the TNT Championship against Malakai Black in a Barbed Wire Steel Cage match, Mercedes Mone’s AEW in-ring debut challenging Willow Nightingale for the TBS Championship, and Swerve Strickland fighting Christian Cage to stay AEW World Champion.

56 min

Arkady Aura

Arkady Aura is the newest member of the ring announce and backstage interviewer team at AEW, and explains the role that FTR’s Dax Harwood played in making that happen. She remembers her first-time doing backstage interviews at Dynamite, prepping her segments, and what she was most nervous about. She talks about learning from her mentor, Justin Roberts, soaking in the backstage knowledge from Renee Paquette, mixing it up with Adam Copeland, Will Ospreay, Willow Nightingale, and Roderick Strong and the Undisputed Kingdom, and being called “Not Lexy.” Arkady also explains how she went from training as an in-ring performer to ring announcing and interviewing, and when she knew that was truly the right path for her! Plus, she discusses her other passion, the Highland Games!

43 min

Double or Nothing Recap

The Return of MJF and Other Fav Moments from Double or Nothing MJF is back, and if you wanna know how he got smuggled into the building, just press play! Will and Aubrey share some great behind-the-scenes stories about Double or Nothing’s 5th Anniversary show in Las Vegas! They talk about Darby Allin lighting Jack Perry on fire (and some well-placed fire extinguishers that were off-limits in the FTW match); the Scapegoat Bus; Matthew & Nicholas Jackson’s Reebok spot; Mercedes Mone’s drumline entrance; the story behind Willow Nightingale’s giant friendship bracelet; the incredible crowd chants; the Anarchy In The Arena music; and AEW World Champion Swerve Strickland’s special guest sitting at ringside!

50 min

Kris Statlander

Kris Statlander has a new look, new music, a new attitude, and a new business partner in Stokely Hathaway! Kris (and her bearded dragon, Boots) return to talk about all that’s changed in recent months including some friendships! Kris also talks about entering the Owen Hart Cup Tournament, her TBS Championship reign, what it meant to win the title at AEW Double of Nothing on her first night back after her second major knee injury, and how she managed to keep her return a surprise! She discusses injury rehab, staying positive throughout her recovery, and how it feels to be able to help other talent going through similar situations.

41 min

Ian Riccaboni

Ian Riccaboni has had some great broadcast partners during his 10 years with Ring Of Honor including Colt Cobana, Nigel McGuinness, and Caprice Coleman. He shares what he learned from Colt, what he enjoys most about working with Nigel, and how he and Caprice prepare for every ROH match they call. Ian gives a play-by-play account of his involvement in the 2018 All In show, his first introduction to Excalibur, and why he didn’t initially join AEW when it launched not long after. He talks about ROH’s historic show at Madison Square Garden, some of his favorite road trips with Jay Lethal, the Briscoes, and Chuck Taylor, his friendship with former ROH owner Cary Silkin, and how he convinced then ROH booker, Delirious, to give him a shot on the mic. Plus, Ian reveals when his love of wrestling started, how his short-lived music career influenced his broadcast style, and what inspired those incredible raps over Willow Nightingale’s entrance.

54 min

Forbidden Door Preview

AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door takes place this Sunday, June 30th live from the USB Arena on Long Island, New York, and the card is STACKED! Ref Aubrey Edwards and Will Washington preview the matches including Swerve Strickland’s huge title defense against Will Ospreay who’s hoping to add the AEW World Championship to his list of AEW accomplishments. The vacant TNT Championship is up for grabs and will be decided in a huge Ladder match featuring Konosuke Takeshita, Mark Briscoe, Jack Perry, Dante Martin, and Lio Rush. TBS Champion Mercedes Mone and NJPW Strong Women’s Champion Stephanie Vaquer put their titles on the line against each; Mina Shirakawa challenges Toni Storm for the AEW Women’s World Championship, Jon Moxley and Tetsuya Naito battle for the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship, and the first round of the Owen Hart Cup Tournament is a true dream match between Bryan Danielson and Shingo Takagi.

45 min

Shane Taylor

The CEO of Shane Taylor Promotions has plenty to say about what it takes to be a fighter, and why Lee Moriarity and Anthony Ogogo have the perfect mentalities for combat sports. He breaks down his own recent singles matches against Orange Cassidy and Will Ospreay, the psychology behind his personal in-ring style, and why he thinks Will Ospreay may have the edge over Bryan Danielson when it comes to being the GOAT. He also shares the story about the time he was kicked out of pre-school (because of pro wrestling), why he thinks Keith Lee is a bonafide genius, and his last hang with Jay Briscoe.

44 min

Trish Adora

Trish Adora went from boot camp to the US Army to teaming with The Infantry at AEW. She talks about how her military training helped her wrestling career, what inspired her to pursue wrestling in the first place, and how her mom reacted when she told her. Trish also talks about her incredible in-ring chemistry with Riho, what she learned at the ROH Dojo, and her goals at AEW. She also explains her connection and bond with her fellow Infantry team members, Captain Shawn Dean and Carlie Bravo.

43 min

WHO WE ARE Vol. 2

WHO WE ARE: A Celebration of Excellence, Vol. 2 is available now on all DSPs! And to celebrate, we’ve got Executive Producer Mikey Rukus, The Infantry’s Carlie Bravo, Victor Perry, and album producer Rich Latta! Hear how Vol. 2 came together, why Rich Latta was the perfect producer for the job, when Victor Perry became involved in the creation of Willow Nightingale’s “Babe With Power,” and what inspired Carlie Bravo’s “Bad News N Tattoos.” Carlie and Victor talk about their musical backgrounds, Rich shares some of his favorite tracks on Vol. 2, and Mikey Rukus reveals which song made Mrs. Rukus jump up and say, “this is a hit!” Plus, stories about Swerve Strickland, Referee Stephon Smith, and Queen Aminata’s tracks.

35 min

Matt Menard

What Makes Daddy Magic Matt Menard’s Nipples Hard? Definitely doing commentary for AEW Rampage! Matt explains how he came to land the commentary seat, the advice that Chris Jericho gave him before he departed the broadcast desk, and what it’s been like to work with Tony Schiavone and Excalibur. Matt also has stories about the Jericho Appreciation Society including the origin of Daddy Magic, who came up with “you know what makes Daddy Magic’s nipples hard” catchphrase, and bleeding all around the arena at Blood & Guts. And he explains why 2.0’s match with Sting may have cemented their deals with AEW. Plus, Matt talks about his tag partner Jeff Parker’s new life journey into fatherhood with real-life wife, Ruby Soho.

46 min

Alicia Atout

The lovely, talented, and we think most recent signing to AEW, Alicia Atout, shares her incredible story, and explains how it is that she and MJF are together (hint: it’s all about persistence). She divulges what it’s been like to live with MJF since he became AEW International Champion, and shares some details about how they first met. Alicia also chronicles her incredible journey to becoming the Interview Queen online, how she started her own YouTube channel AMBY with a little help from dear ole dad, what made her transition from being a music-focused show to wrestling, how all of those many interviews eventually landed her a gig at AEW’s first-ever PPV event, Double or Nothing, and the full circle experience that brought her back to AEW just this year. Plus, she reveals some of her favorite interviews and people from both the music and wrestling worlds (Steel Panther, anyone?), and weighs in on Seinfeld vs. Friends.

45 min

Tommy Billington

The Dynamite Kid Tommy Billington has already had a couple of great matches at AEW! He talks about working with FTR’s Dax Harwood, how the match came together, and the feedback he received post-match from his mentor, Bret Hart. He also talks about Takeshita and standing up to Don Callis, and how he felt about getting on the mic live on AEW Collision! Tommy shares how and when his love of wrestling started, why his younger brother made the best tag team partner, and what his late father would have likely said about Tommy’s AEW debut! Plus, Tommy talks about his family legacy, the decision to use The Dynamite Kid moniker, and the inaugural Dungeon Wrestling show.

42 min

Jennifer Pepperman

Jennifer Pepperman is AEW’s VP of Content Development and shares her journey to AEW. She explains how one discussion with Mercedes Mone and a single meeting with Tony Khan sealed the deal for her. She talks about the special creative connection and relationship she has with Mercedes Mone, and what makes it work so well. She discusses collaborating with Athena, Undisputed Kingdom, Bryan Danielson, and Dustin Rhodes, and reveals how her background in daytime soaps made the transition to professional wrestling so easy and seamless! Plus, Jen talks about directing, storytelling, collaborating, character development, and the role that AEW’s fans play in the creative process!

46 min

AEW All In London Preview

AEW All In takes place this Sunday, August 25th at Wembley Stadium in London! Will Ospreay looks to settle the score against MJF in a battle for the AEW American (aka International) Championship; The Young Bucks look to defend their Tag Team Titles against both FTR and The Acclaimed; Dr. Britt Baker DMD challenges Mercedes Mone for the TBS Championship; reigning AEW Women’s World Champion “Timeless” Toni Storm will attempt to fend off former friend, Mariah May; and it’s Title vs Career when Swerve Strickland and Bryan Danielson go head-to-head for the AEW World Championship belt. Plus, who will be victorious in the Casino Gauntlet Match in a bid for a guaranteed World title shot? And which of the AEW Trios will put the ladders to best use in a grab for the AEW World Trios Championship?

36 min

Von Erichs

Two-thirds of the current ROH World Six-Man Champions, Ross and Marshall Von Erich, along with their legendary father, Kevin, join to share the story of their recent Championship win with Dustin Rhodes! They talk about the history of their two legendary wrestling families, how they teamed with Dustin, what it was like to work with him in the ring, and why this Championship means so much. They also talk about training and wrestling in Japan, marking out for Shibata, growing up in Hawaii, returning to Texas, wrestling The Briscoe Brothers, and their new show, The Von Erich Podcast on YouTube. Plus, they reveal their thoughts on The Iron Claw movie and Zac Efron’s performance as “Kevin!”

46 min

Preview to AEW All Out

AEW All Out takes place this Saturday, September 7th at the NOW Arena in Hoffman Estates (just outside of Chicago)! Bryan Danielson looks to defend the AEW World Championship against Jack Perry who answered the open challenge; Hikaru Shida defeated Serena Deeb, Queen Aminata and Thunder Rose to get a shot at Mercedes Mone and the TBS Championship; PAC tries to reclaim the International Championship from Will Ospreay; Swerve Strickland and Hangman Adam Page take their violent feud to the confines of a steel cage; MJF and Daniel Garcia go head-to-head in a grudge match; and it’s Willow Nightingale and Kris Statlander in a Chicago Street Fight!

38 min

Behind The Scenes of AEW All In & AEW All Out

Two stellar AEW PPVs, and only the best behind-the-scenes stories from Ref Aubrey Edwards and Will Washington! They talk Jamie Hayter’s return, Ricochet’s AEW debut, Nigel McGuinness’ in-ring comeback, and Sting’s surprise cameo to save his former tag partner, Darby Allin! They share great stories about the AEW World Heavyweight Championship belt, meeting Hikaru Shida’s mom backstage, Willow Nightingale and Kris Statlander’s reaction to following the banger put on by Will Ospreay & Ricochet, and Wheeler Yuta’s heartbreaking All Out!

49 min

MxM Collection

Ok, this is probably one you want to watch on video! YouTube link below! MxM Collection’s Mansoor and Mason Madden made their ROH debut at Death Before Dishonor against Serpentico and their new BFF, Anjelico, and share stories from that experience. They talk about working with FTR in the ring, their rivalry with The Acclaimed, and why they have so much respect for The Young Bucks. They discuss the influence that SNL and The Simpsons have had on their characters, their own personal friendship and chemistry, the great idea they gave to Top Flight, and the origin behind “touching tips.” They break down their recent “Friday Night Fashion Fight” match against the House of Black and how they managed to include judges at ringside. Plus, Mason speaks to his first time working for the Khan family as a member of the Jacksonville Jaguars, and Mansoor talks about representing his birth country, Saudi Arabia, in the pro wrestling industry.

42 min

The Outrunners

The Outrunners, Truth Magnum and Turbo Floyd, are the most-jacked and most vascular tag team at AEW, and share the daily routine that keeps them looking so good in neon! They talk about their journey to AEW, how they became a tag team, their first-ever TV win on AEW Collision, their favorite match with the Briscoe Brothers, how they found their infectious entrance theme, and what they love most about the jet ski life in Miami! They also impress with their incredible 80s knowledge (in a little impromptu trivia quiz), share their fondness for yacht rock, and explain how they deal with OCD.

36 min

Chris Estell

AEW’s Head of Wardrobe, Chris Estell, has plenty of stories about the amazing gear he designs for the AEW talent roster! He shares the inspiration behind the scales on Bryan Danielson’s gear and what it really takes to make them. He explains how he managed to make an Ultimo Guerrero mask at the last-minute in Allentown, Pennsylvania, and what it took to pull off Chris Jericho’s yellow jacket for a recent AEW Dynamite! He talks about collaborating with Ruby Soho, Saraya, and even Adult Swim at San Diego ComiCon. Plus, he reveals how a 10-year career in the US Military led him to AEW, what he learned from the wardrobe GOAT Miss Sandra, and how Fuego del Sol ultimately helped him land the AEW gig.

40 min

WrestleDream Preview w/ Willow Nightingale, Chris Jericho & Darby Allin

AEW WrestleDream takes place this Saturday, October 12th at the Tacoma Dome in Tacoma, Washington! Darby Allin joins to talk about his match against the House of Black’s Brody King, and what makes him such a formidable opponent, and who he’s rooting for in the AEW Heavyweight Championship match between reigning champ Bryan Danielson and Jon Moxley! Willow Nightingale is challenging current champ Mariah May for the AEW Women’s World title, and explains why a victory in this match would mean so much. She also discusses how facing Toni Storm, Mercedes Mone, and Kris Statlander has made her a better wrestler! And The Learning Tree Chris Jericho joins to offer his take on facing a very unpredictable Mark Briscoe in the ring, the motivation of family legacy, and what it means to mentor The Bad Apple Bryan Keith, and the Redwood Big Bill!

48 min

Excalibur Returns

The Return of Excalibur: Excalibur calls himself a “Day One and A Half” guy at AEW, and shares some thoughts on the first 5 years of AEW and what he hopes for the next 5. He’s got great stories about his broadcast team partners, Taz, Ian Riccaboni, and good ole JR; the AEW debuts of Mercedes Mone, MVP, and Bryan Danielson, Adam Cole, Suzuki, and Ruby Soho! And he tells the whole BTS story about the Jericho Appreciation Society’s surprise appearance at PWG’s 2023 Battle Of Los Angeles live show. Plus, he reveals what it’s like to work under a mask, why prepping for AEW Dynamite is different than prepping for Collision, and how he avoids bathroom breaks during AEW live PPVs.

50 min

Lio Rush

Lio Rush made his surprise return to AEW during the Casino Gauntlet Match on the May 29th edition of AEW Dynamite. He explains how that happened, why this time is so much different than his first run with AEW, what it’s like to once again be in a faction with Top Flight’s Dante Martin, and his chemistry with stablemates Action Andretti, Darius Martin, and Leila Grey. Lio talks about his recent matches with PAC and Bryan Danielson, mixing it up with Jon Moxley and Claudio Castagnoli, and working a zero hour match at All In at Wembley Stadium. He speaks to his high flying move set, his in-ring quickness, and his goals for the coming year. Plus, Lio shares his latest music release and plans!

43 min

Bobby Cruise

Bobby Cruise was nearing 20 years as the ROH Ring Announcer when Sinclair shuttered the promotion! Bobby talks about that fateful day, his initial reaction, and what he thought when he heard Tony Khan purchased ROH. He recalls when he got the ask to work the first Supercard of Honor for TK, and how quickly after that he received an offer to return full time! Bobby talks about his start in wrestling and specifically with ROH in 2003, and some of his favorite matches from his early days including Bryan Danielson vs Jushin Liger, Samoa Joe vs Kenta Kobashi, Bryan Danielson vs Nigel McGuinness in Liverpool, England, and ROH’s big show at MSG in 2019. He also speaks to the impact ROH has had and continues to have on wrestling, the importance of elevating women’s wrestling, the inaugural All In in 2018 that helped make AEW a reality, and the legend of the late, great Jay Briscoe.

45 min

Ryan Loco

Ryan Loco is the brilliant photographer who catches many of the live action and portrait shots of AEW talent! He has some great stories about what it’s like to be backstage and at ringside at AEW to capture historic moments like Bryan Danielson’s last match, Sting’s last match at AEW Revolution, Hangman Adam Page burning down Swerve Stickland’s childhood home, and the inaugural All In London at Wembley Stadium. He shares his style approach including color and vibe, his favorite vantage points around the ring, and why he only shoots Jon Moxley’s crew in black & white. Plus, Ryan talks about his own journey into photography and how that led him to AEW.

46 min

Nyla Rose

Nyla Rose returns and she definitely brings The Rizz…and so many hilarious stories and antics! Wait till you hear what she was doing backstage at AEW Dynamite during Fright Night, and how that affected Serpentico, Mercedes Mone, and Kamille. She talks TBS Championship, the evolution and growth of the AEW women’s division, how he landscape of wrestling has changed during the last 5 years, and the importance of representation. We also test her knowledge of her co-workers, and put her in the hotseat for her own “Q & NO A!”

34 min

Full Gear Preview

AEW Full Gear takes place this Saturday, November 23rd at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey! Kris Statlander joins to talk about her match against current TBS Champion Mercedes Mone, and why she’ll be content with just giving Mercedes a good beat down! She addresses nearly being run over by a car driven by Kamille & Mercedes, and what a second reign as TBS Champion would mean to her. Roderick Strong is hoping to get the best of MJF, and discusses the impact that MJF has had on Roddy’s long friendship with Adam Cole, and why he thinks things might not yet be settled between MJF and Cole. Plus, Ref Aubrey and Will Washington weigh in on Orange Cassidy’s chances of stripping Jon Moxley of the AEW World Championship, what current TNT Champ Jack Perry has to do to keep challenger Daniel Garcia from claiming the belt, the importance of Swerve Strickland vs Bobby Lashley, and whether Private Party will be able to successfully defend the Tag Titles!

50 min

Thunder Rosa

So much has happened since Thunder Rosa was last on the pod including signing to All Elite Wrestling! She details the major injury, recovery and rehab that kept her sidelined from in-ring performance for almost a year, and how the opportunity to do commentary with Alex Abrahantes changed her whole view of professional wrestling. She discusses her feud with Deonna Purrazzo, her recent Day of The Dead match against Harley Cameron, her original rivalry with Dr. Britt Baker DMD, and why she loved Julia Hart’s comeback promo! She has some choice words for both Mariah May and the CEO Mercedes Mone, lots of stories about the day she won the AEW Women’s Championship, and where she gets all her crazy awesome entrance ideas!

46 min

Private Party

Private Party are the AEW Tag Team Champions, and Isiah Kassidy and Marq Quen tell us all about the title-winning moment five-years in the making! They share the story about how they found out, why their match at WrestleDream against The Young Bucks was so crucial to their long-awaited victory at Fright NIght, and the role that Jon Moxley played in the whole thing. They talk about their development and growth over the last 5 years, Quen’s injury and rehab and what it was like for him to watch Zay go it solo, and Private Party’s big return as a team at the first AEW Dynamite of 2024. Quen & Zay also give their one-word takes on some of the other tag teams on the AEW roster like FTR, The Gunns, Sting & Darby, and Jay Lethal & Jeff Jarrett.

41 min

Shelton Benjamin

Shelton Benjamin says his AEW debut was a longtime coming, and was genuinely surprised by the fan reaction he received! He talks about The Hurt Syndicate, his real-life friendship with MVP, and the first-time he met Bobby Lashley. He breaks down The Hurt Syndicate’s respective roles in relation to Marvel Superheroes (guess who’s Tony Stark?), and shares some BTS stories from his recent matches with Lio Rush and Mark Briscoe. Plus, Shelton reveals his favorite match of his career, and explains what it was like when he finally realized he was a “big guy” in wrestling.

45 min