AEW Unrestricted Season 2, Episode 19: Mikey Rukus

1

Tony Schiavone

It’s Tony Schiavone… in the hot seat! And yes, he’s revealing what he knew (and when) about Sting’s AEW debut, the Kenny Omega and Don Callis AEW Championship swerve, what it was like recording commentary for 6-weeks-worth of AEW Dynamite shows in a 24-hour period at the start of the pandemic lockdown, and how it was to share the announce table during that time with Chris Jericho. Tony also recalls his own journey to AEW, the text message he received from Cody Rhodes that got everything rolling, and his first meeting with Tony Khan. Plus, Tony discusses his favorite AEW matches so far, his favorite promos, the young talent he’s most excited to see develop, the recent loss of Pat Patterson, his hair care regime, and his favorite snacks. And he may or may not answer a fan question submitted by one Dr. Britt Baker DMD.

55 min

2

Serena Deeb

Serena Deeb is the current NWA Women’s Champion, and details what it took to win the coveted title from Thunder Rosa! She also chronicles her journey to AEW, and how signing with the company was the silver lining of 2020. Serena talks the power of yoga and positive thinking, learning from Rip Rogers, and returning to in-ring performance after believing that part of her career to be over. Plus, she shares her Mt. Rushmore of wrestling, her experiences working with CM Punk, and her love of coaching.

55 min

3

Will Hobbs

Will Hobbs grew up in East Palo Alto, California hearing stories about Pat Patterson, Ray Stevens, and Pepper Gomez, and going to shows at the legendary Cow Palace! He did some training with Booker T, worked the indies, and took a huge chance during the pandemic that ultimately led him to AEW. Will also talks comic books, Venom, Sting’s surprise AEW debut, Arn Anderson and the spinebuster, and why he really wants Team Taz to take on the Inner Circle. Plus, Will answers hard-hitting questions about arm wrestling Wardlow and Brian Cage, his growing iPhone collection, his calorie intake, daytime soap operas, and his favorite game on “Price Is Right.”

55 min

4

Amanda Huber

Amanda Huber, widow of the late, great Jon Huber (aka Mr. Brodie Lee), recounts the final couple months of her husband’s life, and the circumstances that led to his sudden and untimely passing. She sets the record straight about the non-COVID-19 lung infection that contributed to her husband’s death, the extraordinary measures taken to save Jon’s life, why a lung transplant was not an option, and the last spoken-word conversation she had with Jon before he died. She also speaks to the love and support she received from the AEW family, including the amazing help she got with her children, Brodie Jr., and Nolan, and the beautiful “Celebration of Life” tribute for Jon on “AEW Dynamite.”

55 min

5

Scorpio Sky

First-ever AEW World Tag Team Champ, co-host of the new “Wrestling With The Week” podcast, and sneaker aficionado, Scorpio Sky has decided opinions on Nike's Jordan's, winning the AEW tag title as part of SCU, his tag partners Christopher Daniels and Frankie Kazarian, and re-watching his own matches. He’s also got some great stories about wrestling sea sick on the Jericho Cruise, BTE and the Worst Town gimmick, The Young Bucks, Bret Hart, Sting’s AEW debut, and the time he met Derek Jeter. Plus, Sky reveals who he’d love to wrestle at AEW, why he almost quit wrestling, and which foods he absolutely can’t live without!

55 min

6

Matt Sydal

Matt Sydal had some words of wisdom for Snoop Dogg before Snoop did the Snoop Splash live on AEW Dynamite. He also had some encouraging words for himself after his not-so-perfect AEW debut at the All Out Casino Battle Royale. Matt tells that story along with the last minute phone call he received about the surprise booking. He offers insight to the Third Eye gimmick, what it means to have a “Sydelic Mentality,” risk-taking in the ring, and why he is solely focused on the TNT Championship. Plus, Matt tells stories about working with Cody Rhodes, Chaos Project, learning from AEW coaches like Dean Malenko and Tully Blanchard, his love of Japanese death matches, and tagging with Ricochet at NJPW.

55 min

7

Vickie Guerrero

Excuse me! The Queen of Mean, Vickie Guerrero, is no nun in real life though she’s playing one on BTE! She shares stories about filming those segments with Nyla Rose, what it’s like to learn from and perform with Nyla, and how long it took her to recover from that gummy bear challenge! She also tells tales about meeting Tony Khan for the first time, having her own theme music on #AEWDynamite, and being part of an elite stable of managers at AEW including Arn Anderson, Tully Blanchard, and Jake “The Snake” Roberts. Plus, Vickie explains what it was like to perform a Cougar Splash off the top rope, who she’d love to recruit for her very own stable, what she does to keep her voice in shape, her favorite Eddie Guerrero match, and how her late husband always cheated at board games. And then there’s the book she’s writing…

55 min

8

Red Velvet

Red Velvet is more than ready to take on Jade and Shaq next week alongside Cody on #AEWDynamite! Velvet explains how she’s preparing mentally and physically for the big match, why it was important for her to fill-in for Brandi Rhodes, and the words of wisdom she’s received from Brandi and Arn Anderson. Velvet also details the origin of her “Red Velvet” name and the “Stir The Pot” gimmick, her training with both La Rosa Negra and Dustin Rhodes, why she’s dying to get into the ring with Serena Deeb, and her journey to AEW. Plus, she shares the story of her engagement to Wes Briscoe, her close bond with Wes’ father, the great Jerry Briscoe, and what both of her parents have done to support her dream.

55 min

9

Tony Khan Previews Revolution 2021

2020 Wrestling Observer Awards “Best Booker” and “Promoter Of The Year” winner, Tony Khan, returns with a preview of Sunday’s (3/8 at 8pm Eastern) Revolution PPV card! He confirms that newest All Elite Wrestling talent, Paul Wight, was 100% correct in announcing that a major wrestling star will be signing a multi-year deal with AEW during Sunday’s live event! Tony also shares thoughts on the Exploding Barbed Wire deathmatch between current AEW World Heavyweight Champion Kenny Omega and former champ Jon Moxley, the personal nature of the AEW World Tag Team Championship match between The Young Bucks and the Inner Circle’s Chris Jericho and MJF, the surprise entrant in the Face of the Revolution Ladder Match, and the Street Fight between TNT Champion Darby Allin and Sting and Team Taz. Plus, Tony congratulates “Best High Flyer” Rey Fenix, and speaks to AEW’s expansion with the brand-new Monday night Elevation show, and an upcoming third hour of television on TNT.

55 min

10

Christopher Daniels

Christopher Daniels is one-third of the SCU tag team, and the head of AEW Talent Relations. He explains how The Young Bucks brought him to AEW, why he was willing to bet on himself and take a chance with a new wrestling company, how AEW kept Sting’s debut a surprise, and how he rates the first year of #AEWDynamite. CD also shares stories about #CurryMan, the Dumb & Dumber suits, tagging and traveling with Frankie Kazarian, adding Scorpio Sky to SCU, “Being The Elite,” the BME, his covert DC vs Marvel match against actor Stephen Amell, and his brief stint at WCW. Plus, CD talks comic book collecting, his favorite Marvel books, and his own collaboration with Aw Yeah Comics.

55 min

11

Evil Uno & Stu Grayson

Founding Dark Order members, Evil Uno and Stu Grayson, disclose what they knew and when about the arrival of The Exalted One (aka Mr. Brodie Lee) to AEW Dynamite. They talk about their new de facto leader, -1 Brodie Lee Junior, Anna Jay’s injury, adding John Silver and Alex Reynolds as recruitment specialists to the Dark Order, the faction’s future, and why Colt Cabana is #8. They also speak to their relationship with the Young Bucks, being among the first talent signed to AEW, riding out the early months of the pandemic in their native Canada, missing Mr. Brodie Lee’s AEW Dynamite debut, and why #6 is perfect for Hangman Adam Page if X-Pac doesn’t accept the Dark Order’s recruitment offer! Plus, a physics and anatomy lesson from Stu, a rundown of Evil Uno’s favorite masks, and the true story about Nintendo and the Super Smash Brothers!

55 min

12

Thunder Rosa

Thunder Rosa and Dr. Britt Baker DMD burned the house down last week with the first-ever Unsanctioned Lights Out main event match on #AEWDynamite! The groundbreaking, historic bout featured blood, sweat, tears, thumb tacks, ladders, and tables, and ended in an emotional victory for Thunder Rosa! And you’ll hear exactly how she feels about the win, the match, her opponent, and what it means for women’s wrestling moving forward! Thunder Rosa also talks about her journey to AEW, locker room leadership, her time in Japan, and being NWA Women’s World Champion. Plus, discover what inspired her character, face paint, costume, and wrestling style, how she learned Lucha on the fly, what it was like working with Rey Mysterio and the Guerreros at Lucha Underground, why she loves Pentagon and Rey Fenix, how a soap opera actress dream turned in to a professional wrestling career, and what’s next for her all-women’s promotion, Mission Pro Wrestling.

55 min

13

Varsity Blonds

The Varsity Blonds, Brian Pillman Jr. and Griff Garrison, talk FTR, Colt Cobana, and Lance Archer. They also recount the Tony Khan nickname that inspired their gimmick, and the events that led to them becoming a tag team. Brian shares stories about training with Lance Storm and Rip Rogers, hosting freestyle rap battles in the halls of his high school, the significance of the number 41, and the request he made of his late father’s former tag partner, Stone Cold Steve Austin. Griff reveals what his plans B & C were in the event wrestling didn’t work out, and how he got his start backyard wrestling on his trampoline. Plus, the Varsity Blonds offer hair care tips, advice to their younger selves, and their vote on whether speedos are “hot” or “not.” And if you’re wondering about Brian Pillman Jr.’s mullet, it’s more than a hairstyle; it’s a functional career decision.

55 min

14

Frankie Kazarian

Frankie Kazarian is one-half of the inaugural AEW World Tag Team Champions, SCU, and among the first wrestlers signed to AEW at launch. He speaks to how he got in at the ground floor, what The Young Bucks and “Being The Elite” did for SCU’s popularity, beating the Lucha Brothers for the tag title, and what it’s like having a beverage and talking shop with your boss. Frankie was Christian Cage’s first AEW opponent, and explains why he thinks Christian has the highest wrestling IQ of anyone he’s been in the ring with. You’ll also hear about Frankie’s friendship with Christopher Daniels, his love of Metallica, how he started playing bass, what prompted him to start American Rebel Cigars with Cody Rhodes, and how he ended up with a cameo in the Netflix series, GLOW. Plus, Frankie shares the story of “Do Ya!,” his Top 5 metal songs, and why calls the “Flux Capacitor” his “Break Glass In Case of Emergency” move.

55 min

15

Chaos Project

Luther and Serpentico are Chaos Project, thanks to Tony Khan’s brilliant idea to put them together as a tag team at AEW! They discuss how a body slam move turned into using Serpentico as a weapon during matches, what inspired the streamers that shoot from Serpentico’s hands during their ring entrance, how they built their in-ring chemistry, and why they crashed Negative One’s birthday party! Luther also shares his journey to AEW which started with a phone call from Chris Jericho, and an audition for Dark Order. He recalls joining the short-lived Nightmare Collective, signing his contract the day the pandemic officially shut down the world, and wrestling Jericho on Dynamite as part of Jericho’s 30th Anniversary Special. Plus, Serpentico talks training with Bubba and D’Von Dudley, learning the lucha style in his native Puerto Rico, wrestling under a mask, and debuting on AEW Dark during the pandemic. And, you’ll hear some pretty great stories about UFOs, Sasquatches, and death matches.

55 min

16

Christian Cage

Christian Cage returned to the ring on #AEWDynamite for his first true match in 7 years! He explains why Frankie Kazarian was the perfect opponent, why “Out. Work Everyone” is more than just a clever catchphrase, and the exchange he had with Tony Khan after that first match. Christian also shares details surrounding his surprise appearance at Revolution and the role that Jon Moxley played in his signing, why he’s excited to see attention paid to tag team wrestling, and the huge life changes he made preceding his pro-wrestling return. Plus, you’ll hear what Edge said to him during the 2021 Royal Rumble, which title currently means the most to him, and who he’s excited to work with at AEW.

55 min

17

Jerry Lynn

Jerry Lynn coached Dr. Britt Baker and Thunder Rosa for their recent hardcore match, and shares the advice he gave them about bumping in thumbtacks. He talks about learning from his fellow AEW coaches like Dean Malenko, Arn Anderson, and Jake “The Snake” Roberts, the importance of treating your character as a brand, and the evolution of high-flying wrestlers. He explains how one call to the Young Bucks resulted in his signing with AEW, and what Tony Khan said to him the first time they met. Plus, Jerry speaks to his days wrestling under a mask, his favorite ECW spots, the challenge of doing good guy vs good guy matches, and getting color with X-Pac.

55 min

18

Kris Statlander Pt. 2

The alien, Kris Statlander, has returned to AEW Dynamite, and teamed up with some new friends in the process – the Best Friends and Orange Cassidy to be exact! She explains how this otherworldly faction happened, why she’s dubbed them the “Galaxy’s Greatest Goobers,” and how long she really hid out in that claw machine at Arcade Anarchy. Kris also details the ACL injury that sidelined her for nearly 10 months, her surgery, and the intense rehab and physical therapy she underwent to get back to the AEW ring. Plus, Kris reveals what inspired her new intergalactic look, why she swears by popcorn and ice cream, and the secret ingredient in her now-perfected egg salad recipe.

55 min

19

Mikey Rukus

Mikey Rukus is the maestro behind nearly all of AEW’s music – from this podcast to Dynamite to the upcoming All Elite General Manager game to all of the wrestlers’ entrance theme music! Mikey shares his journey to AEW along with what inspires his composition creativity. He’s got great stories about putting together Sting’s entrance, the Tribute for Mr. Brodie Lee, The Pinnacle’s theme (with its tip of the hat to the Four Horsemen), and Christian Cage’s debut. Mikey reveals which AEW talent was the first he composed a theme for, whose music was inspired by Sepultura, the late night texting that turned into one of his favorite theme mash-ups, and his first AEW “oh s@*t” moment.

55 min

20

Tay Conti

Tay Conti loves the Japanese strong style wrestling, and shares her thoughts on working with AEW Women’s World Champion, Hikaru Shida. Tay also details her journey to AEW, her special bond with Negative One, the support she receives from the Dark Order, her close friendship with Anna Jay, and training with Dustin Rhodes. She remembers how she was approached to compete in the AEW Women’s Tag Team Cup Tournament, the day she signed with AEW, and why she’s improved exponentially as a wrestler and in-ring performer since coming to AEW. Tay also speak about her MMA background, her 2016 Olympic Trials experience, and what it was like growing up in Brazil.

55 min

21

Tony Khan Previews Double or Nothing 2021

“Double or Nothing” is live from Daily’s Place in Jacksonville, and the card is as stacked as the house will be this Sunday night for the big event! The first full-capacity crowd since the initial pandemic lockdown will be onsite to see the four Championships defended, The Inner Circle and The Pinnacle battle it out at the Stadium Stampede, the return of the Casino Battle Royale to Double or Nothing, and Sting wrestle in front of a crowd for the first time in 6 years! AEW bossman, Tony Khan, returns to breakdown the matches, the performers, the special Friday night live edition of Dynamite (tomorrow night), and celebrate the arrival of a new era in AEW! He speaks to the expanded partnership with WarnerMedia, the launch of AEW Rampage, the return of Dynamite live in different cities every week, and the overall growth of the company and roster.

55 min

22

Sandra Gray

Sandra Gray is the Lead Seamstress at AEW, and is responsible for many of the amazing costumes you see on the talent in the ring. Sandra shares her self-taught, sewing beginnings, how she got involved in wrestling, the first in-ring gear she ever made, and what it’s been like working with AEW talent such as Cody and Brandi Rhodes, Dr. Britt Baker DMD, Chris Jericho, and Private Party. She recalls wardrobe malfunctions, funky fixes, and some of her most proud moments. She also shares her AEW journey, and what she loves most about being backstage at DYNAMITE.

55 min

23

Live At FanFest

AEW Unrestricted was live at FanFest with a fantastic lineup of guests! Dark Order’s -1 with 10 in tow, took the stage with Ref Aubrey and Tony Schiavone to talk about leading the Dark Order, his relationship with Tay Conti, carrying his father’s (the late, great Mr. Brodie Lee’s) legacy forward, and his future plans to take on the AEW World Champion! 10 explains how he came to join Dark Order, what it’s like having a “mini me,” and then surprises -1 with a special gift! Abadon joins the festivities after that and in between her “yes” and “no” answers and scaring Ref Aubrey nearly to death, Abadon also manages to attack Tony Schiavone (video’s available on YouTube starting Monday, June 14th). Luckily, Tony survived the attack, and was able to welcome AEW World Champion Kenny Omega for an interesting chat about wrestling during the pandemic, world domination, being THE BEST athlete, fan connection (or lack thereof), and a curious run-in with AEW TNT Champion, Miro.

55 min

24

The Bunny

Allie aka The Bunny from The Butcher, The Blade and The Bunny, did commentary for the first Double Or Nothing PPV, was out buying Oreos (shocking!) when she got the call about wrestling her first singles match for AEW, and owes part of The Bunny’s character to horror movies! Allie explains why it’s so special (and lucky) to be working alongside her real-life husband (The Blade) and one of her best friends (The Butcher), what it was like teaming with Brandi Rhodes in the Nightmare Sisters, and how she’s enjoying working with Matt Hardy. Plus, she speaks to the influence her dad had on her wrestling career, and the importance of openly talking about mental health issues including anxiety and depression. She also reveals her initial hatred for the Cherry Bomb gimmick, her favorite horror movies, her dream wrestling match partner, and who tops the list of people she’d like to do an Oreo taste-test with.

55 min

25

QT Marshall

QT Marshall might be a heel on AEW Dynamite, but he’s one of the hardest working and nicest guys behind the scenes at AEW. Hear how he went from Cody’s assistant to Tony Khan’s right-hand TV man as well as the role that his Nightmare Factory training facility played on DYNAMITE during the early days of the pandemic. QT also talks about his multi-functional bowling shirts, why he sits on the steps during The Factory’s wrestling matches and on-screen moments, which female wrestler he’d love to add to The Factory, his personal relationship with Diamond Dallas Page, and what he learned tagging with Dustin Rhodes as the Natural Nightmares. Plus, QT shares the story behind the documentary, “The Wrestler: A QT Marshall Story,” and the valuable lesson it taught him about life and the business.

55 min

26

Ethan Page

All Ego Ethan Page had to keep his training and his travel a secret prior to this AEW debut in “The Face Of The Revolution Ladder Match” at the Revolution PPV. He explains when he found out about his appearance, and how he managed to keep the secret. He also discusses the role that Cody Rhodes and The Young Bucks played in his journey to AEW, his AEW DYNAMITE debut against Lee Johnson, the advantages of being a 15-year vet, his natural bromance with Men of the Year tag partner, Scorpio Sky, and how excited he was to work with Sting! Ethan shares stories about his training days, his early career matches, the evolution of his character, traveling with Michael Elgin, Karate Man, his obsession with fast food, and his weekly VLog! Plus, discover Ethan’s 3-year-old daughter’s contribution to his AEW Dynamite entrance!

55 min

27

Charlie Ramone

Charlie Ramone is one of the crew on Sammy Guevara’s Vlog, the former BTE Champion, and the Special Projects Manager at AEW. He reveals what that title really means, some of the cool props he’s created for various AEW matches and vignettes, and his roles in both the Shawn Spears chair-swinging pilot error and the Stadium Stampede! He speaks about his “almost friendship” with Cody Rhodes, the creative inspiration behind Sammy Guevara’s cue cards, the one prop he was happy NOT to acquire, and his “son,” Griff Garrison! Charlie also shares the compliment he received from Jake “The Snake” Roberts, the story behind the bump he took through glass for the Murderhawk Monster Lance Archer, the weird request he got from Fuego del Sol, and the very cool thing that the late, great Mr. Brodie Lee did for him.

55 min

28

Lance Archer

Lance Archer bet on himself when he signed on with AEW, and hasn’t looked back since. Lance talks about his journey to AEW, his first-time meeting Tony Khan, the backyard vignettes he filmed at Darby Allin’s house with Jake “The Snake” Roberts that introduced him to AEW fans, his in-ring debut at the Nightmare Factory during the pandemic lockdown, and his matches against Marko Stunt, Rey Fenix, and Miro. Lance also reveals the philosophy behind the color of his signature braid, the origins of the Murderhawk Monster, his Namahage status in Japan, why he wrestled under a mask for a short time early in his career, and who he’d love to form a faction with at AEW. Plus, Lance shares the story of the peanut butter challenge, the time he had breakfast with Stan Hansen, and a few choice words for AEW’s "Men of the Year."

55 min

29

Peter Avalon

Pretty Peter Avalon from The Wingmen is waxed and vaxxed and ready for a Hot Boi Summer! Peter explains how the faction started with him, Ryan Nemeth, JD Drake, and Cezar Bononi, who convinced JD to wear that sexy mesh top, how the foursome were put together in the first place (shout out to Christian!), and what BTE has done for The Wingmen’s popularity. Peter sheds some light on The Librarian gimmick and being paired with Leva Bates, his bitter feud with Brandon Cutler, wrestling at the Young Bucks compound during the pandemic, and the inspiration behind his amazing ring gear (aka bathrobe). He’s also talking Norv Fernum, David Arquette, Ric Flair, Kurt Angle, dice bumps, Italian sandwiches, mustache care, and having the most punchable face in pro-wrestling. Plus, he shares the advice he once received from the late, great Roddy Piper.

55 min

30

Mark Henry

Mark Henry is the newest member of the AEW broadcast team and will be behind the mic when AEW Rampage debuts, Friday, August 13th at 10pm on TNT. Mark explains how his love of microphones and armchair quarterbacking wrestling matches led to this moment, and what he and Tony Schiavone have been doing behind the scenes to prepare. Mark also talks about his coaching/mentoring style, which young talent he’s most excited to work with, and how he hopes to put his vast experience to good use at AEW. He shares his thoughts on the new AEW Community Outreach Team, their aspirations and goals, and the joy he receives in helping others. Plus, Mark also shares some of his favorite stories about Owen Hart, a couple of his favorite matches, memories of his Olympic experiences in Barcelona and Atlanta, and how he got into weight lifting at 10-years old!

55 min

31

Rebel not Reba

It’s Rebel, not Reba - unless you’re Dr. Britt Baker, D.M.D., and you need someone to laugh at all your jokes and carry your bag of thumbtacks. Rebel explains how she became the doctor’s right-hand woman, the origin of her maniacal, evil Waiting Room laugh, the puppet show at Casa Bonita that inspired some of her onscreen moments, who she believes is behind the conspiracy to injure Britt Baker, ridesharing with Dustin Rhodes, and backstage dancing with Tony Schiavone. Rebel also recalls her days as a Dallas Cowboys cheerleader, playing for the New York Euphoria in the Lingerie Football League, and how all of that eventually led her to pro wrestling. Plus, stories about “Mr. Wonderful” Paul Orndorff, training at OVW, and the most surprising things about AEW.

55 min

32

Justin Roberts

AEW Ring Announcer and MC Justin Roberts shares the magic behind Kenny Omega’s North Carolina ring intro! He details The Varsity Blonds' pop that left him deaf, the intro that AEW fans do along with him, and the appearance at All In that led him to AEW. Justin talks about his ring announcing heroes, his most memorable introductions, the time he intro’ed Scooby Doo and Jesus in a match against QT Marshall and Brandon Cutler, and how he learned to so masterfully roll his Rs when he intros Rey Fenix! Plus, hear funny road stories, tips for keeping your voice healthy, and the joys of creative freedom!

55 min

33

Santana & Ortiz

It was a long time coming, but definitely worth the wait! Santana and Ortiz bring the positivity, cheesy humor, and in-ring chemistry and intensity along with some great stories about a few of their biggest AEW moments including Stadium Stampede and their recent Fight For The Fallen match against FTR! Discover when and how they first heard of AEW, who contacted them about joining the company, the role that Chris Jericho unknowingly played in their decision to sign, the significance of “Proud And Powerful,” and why they call their Street Fight against the Best Friends one of their “crowning achievements.” The tag partners also talk about the first time they met, the New York Indie wrestling scene, Eddie Kingston, the evolution of their wrestling style, the biggest lessons they learned from Konnan, and why they may now have some beef with The Varsity Blonds.

55 min

34

Bryce Remsburg

Ref Aubrey’s personal favorite referee, Bryce Remsburg, is telling stories about “Brittsburgh,” Excalibur, Shaquille O’Neal, and Eddie Kingston. He’s also sharing thoughts on Orange Cassidy’s AEW success, his friendship with Mr. Brodie Lee, his connection with The Young Bucks that ultimately brought him to AEW, and the most ridiculous thing he’s ever been a part of inside a wrestling ring. You’ll discover how Bryce got started as a referee, what it was like reff’ing an invisible man match, and what he believes has been the silver lining of the pandemic. And yes, Bryce Remsburg is his real name! Thanks to our sponsor AEW Casino!

55 min

35

All Out 2021 Preview with Tony Khan

This weekend marks the first AEW pay-per-view on the road since the pandemic started. AEW ALL OUT is live from the Now Arena in Hoffman Estates, Ill., this Sunday, Sept. 5, and it might be the best PPV card ever! AEW CEO, GM and Head of Creative Tony Khan returns to break down the event’s unbelievable matchups, which include all four Championships being defended, a 21-woman Casino Battle Royal, CM Punk’s historic return to the ring against Darby Allin with Sting, Chris Jericho’s potentially career-ending match versus MJF, an epic bout between Jon Moxley and Satoshi Kojima, and the AEW in-ring debut of Paul Wight.

55 min

36

Fuego Del Sol

Fuego Del Sol is officially All Elite, and explains why he thought his match on RAMPAGE was initially his swan song for AEW. He speaks to his best friend, Sammy Guevara, surprising him with his AEW contract, how he shared the news and celebrated with his family, what it meant to snap his 40-match losing streak, making a name for himself on Sammy’s Vlog, and the organic growth of his homegrown popularity. Fuego shares the story behind his gimmick and mask, what it means to be Alabama’s #1 Luchador, and how his backyard wrestling promotion, KBW, ultimately led him to this point in his career. Fuego also talks about learning from Cody Rhodes, Ethan Page, Lance Archer, Scorpio Sky, and Brian Cage. Plus, he reveals some of his favorite skits from Sammy’s Vlog including his on-going story with Griff Garrison, and the bit with Dustin Rhodes.

55 min

37

Anthony Bowens

Anthony Bowens explains why Kenny Omega is his favorite AEW wrestler, what he’s learned so far from FTR, and how his parents figure in to his best AEW moment to date. He talks about the formation of The Acclaimed and his chemistry with Max Caster. He also speaks candidly about his LGBTQ journey, his decision to come out, and the importance of representation. Plus, you’ll discover what inspired Anthony’s YouTube channel, his new action figure collection, his love of reality TV, and why pineapple doesn’t belong on pizza!

55 min

38

CM Punk

CM Punk details his AEW debut and return to wrestling after a 7-year absence in what was designed to be the worst-kept secret in the biz! He speaks to the “pop” at the United Center the night of his debut, his AEW entrance music of choice (Living Colour’s “Cult Of Personality”), the meeting with Tony Khan that sealed the deal, and the role that AEW’s Brodie Lee tribute show played in his decision to sign. He shares thoughts on his first match back (against Darby Allin), why he enjoys commentary so much, who he hopes to tag with at AEW, what he loves about working with Will Hobbs, and how his MMA training helped his in-ring performance. Plus, stories about his wrestling influences (Ricky Steamboat, Roddy Piper, Eddie Guerrero), his love of comics, his favorite horror movies, and his most memorable acting moment.

55 min

39

Malakai Black

Malakai Black reveals the mix of horror movies, music, mythology, and European history that’s influenced and inspired his incredible AEW entrance! He breaks down the evolution of the three light stabs and his name, and shares the backstage ritualist preparation he undergoes before every match. He also talks about his AEW debut in Miami and how they managed to keep it a secret, brawling with Cody Rhodes, and working with “Daredevil” star Rosario Dawson. He has stories about growing up in the Netherlands, the Dutch wrestling scene, his martial arts background, and his fascination with religion and the occult. Plus, he answers questions about a possible cinematic wrestling match in the future, developing his Blxck Mass clothing line, his cats, and learning to speak English.

55 min

40

2point0

2point0 (Matt Lee & Jeff Parker) are off to a tremendous start at AEW! They talk about the road that led them to Dynamite, the phone call that ultimately changed their lives, teaming up with adopted son Daniel Garcia, and their awestruck moment standing in the AEW ring opposite Sting. Plus, they debate the merits of instant coffee, contemplate the details of a fantasy title match against The Young Bucks, relive their childhood backyard wrestling days, and explain why wrist tape goes on after teeth brushing.

55 min

41

Adam Cole

Adam Cole and Tony Schiavone call a 45-minute truce to give Adam a chance to tell the story of his debut at AEW All Out! He talks about arriving incognito, holing up in a trailer all day, and the incredible “pop” from the crowd when he finally made his entrance. Adam runs through his first conversation with Tony Khan, the moment he made his decision to sign, his debut AEW DYNAMITE match against Frankie Kazarian, and his love of the AEW locker room. He also recounts his resurrection on “Being The Elite,” reuniting with his old friends, Kenny Omega and The Young Bucks, the origin of “Adam Cole BayBay!,” and the circumstances surrounding his loss to Negative1 in an unsanctioned match. Plus, Adam talks all things video games including his favorite games and consoles, the first game he ever beat, the character he’d most like to hit with a Panama Sunrise, and how he became a video game collector!

55 min

42

Daniel Garcia

Daniel Garcia has had an incredible 12 months in wrestling including signing with AEW, teaming with 2point0, and wrestling both CM Punk and Jon Moxley! He shares what he’s learned from being in the ring with such experienced talent, the one thing that stands out from his match against Jon Moxley, and how a single call to do AEW Dark got the ball rolling for him. Daniel talks about getting started in wrestling, having to wait until he was 18 to attend wrestling school, and training with AEW’s The Blade. Plus, Daniel speaks to wrestling during the pandemic, the importance of pacing a match, why he likes to look at wrestling in “moments,” tag team chemistry, his love of Joshi wrestling, and when his childhood dream of the NHL turned into a dream of the squared circle!

55 min

43

Bobby Fish

Bobby Fish made a big splash on AEW Dynamite challenging Sammy Guevara for the TNT Championship. He explains how quickly that match came together, what it was like getting in the ring with Bryan Danielson after 10-years, and how it felt to come to the AEW ring to “Dance Away.” Bobby Fish also talks about the lessons he learned from the great Harley Race, and wrestling in Japan. He also shares tips on proper mustache care, and stories about the wrestling scene in upstate New York when he was getting started, his love of ninjas and Bruce Lee, and his MMA background and training.

55 min

44

Tony Khan Previews AEW Full Gear 2021

AEW Full Gear is live from the Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota this Saturday, November 13th, and it might be the most stacked PPV card in AEW history! AEW CEO, GM and Head of Creative Tony Khan returns to break down the exciting matchups with Ref Aubrey and special guest co-host Excalibur! All four Championships are on the line in the first pay-per-view to feature this version of AEW’s star-studded roster – Kenny Omega and Hangman Adam Page in a World Championship match years in the making; CM Punk and Eddie Kingston square off in a highly emotional singles match; Darby Allin takes on MJF for the first time ever in AEW; Dr. Britt Baker DMD defends the Women’s title against Tay Conti; FTR attempt to reclaim the Tag Team Championship from the Lucha Brothers; and it’s an epic Minneapolis Street Fight between the Inner Circle and Scorpio Sky, All Ego Ethan Page and American Top Team’s Dan Lambert, Andrei Arlovski, and Junior Dos Santos.

55 min

45

Ruby Soho

Ruby Soho shares some great stories about making her AEW debut at ALL OUT on the same night as Bryan Danielson and Adam Cole, including what Tony Khan said to her just before her entrance and the very real moment she had in the ring with AEW referee Bryce Remsburg. She remembers her favorite moments from her main event match versus Dr. Britt Baker, D.M.D. during AEW DYNAMITE Grand Slam at Arthur Ashe Stadium, and she explains how a friendship with Rancid’s Lars Frederiksen inspired her Ruby Soho character and music. Ruby speaks to the importance of the TBS Championship Tournament, the camaraderie and respect in the AEW women’s locker room, and her goals for the next year. Plus, Ruby answers fan questions about her hairless cat Bambi, her love of Sheetz, and staying true to the most authentic version of herself.

55 min

46

Matt Hardy

Matt Hardy reveals what Brodie Lee said to him after they both made their AEW DYNAMITE debuts during the first-ever empty arena show of the pandemic era. He explains why the AEW DYNAMITE Street Fight against the Inner Circle is one of his favorite matches, and what made the Stadium Stampede so special for him. He talks Broken Matt, Big Money Matt, the Hardy Family Office, his chemistry with Private Party, Sammy Guevara, and Hurricane Helms and Gangrel’s cameo appearances at Elite Deletion. Plus, Matt shares how Tony Khan and The Young Bucks convinced him to sign with AEW, and the role his children played in that decision.

55 min

47

Butts In Seats: The Tony Schiavone Story

Dirk Manning is the writer behind “Butts In Seats: The Tony Schiavone Story,” and he explains how he met Tony, and came to tell Tony’s life in wrestling story in brilliantly-illustrated graphic novel form. Dirk and Tony talk about breaking Tony’s life into 10 pivotal moments, picking the moments and highlights to include, integrating “What Happened When” into the book, and how they chose the 14 talented artists who illustrated each of the novel’s chapters. They talk about the challenge in illustrating Tony and Lois’ love story, the final days of WCW, Tony’s 15 years away from the business, and his return to wrestling via AEW. Plus, you’ll hear their favorite chapters, illustrations, and character depictions in the book, and discover why Bobby Heenan, Chief Wahoo McDaniel, Ric Flair, and Sting all got their own chapters.

55 min

48

Ryan Nemeth

Hollywood Hunk Ryan Nemeth is the defacto leader of the beloved AEW faction, The Wingmen! He talks about becoming The Wingmen, the inspiration behind the hostile makeover, dressing JD Drake, spray-tanning Orange Cassidy, his creative contributions to “Being The Elite,” and the Wingmen’s recent match against the Dark Order. Ryan shares his love of stand-up comedy, Andy Kaufman, the band Sleigh Bells, and the movie “Scrooged” with Bill Murray. He also speaks to the art of the promo, his friendship with PeeWee Herman, the making of his first-ever short film, “Heel,” and the movie he’d love to make next.

55 min

49

Jake Hager

The Inner Circle’s Jake Hager can catch people better than anybody—just ask him! He’ll also tell you exactly what he thinks about Baron Von Raschke coming to the aid of Jake’s wife, Catalina, at AEW FULL GEAR. Jake’s got stories about signing with AEW, joining the Inner Circle, wrestling for the AEW World Championship title on his birthday, the bar fight against Hangman Adam Page in the Stadium Stampede, and repelling off the Jaguars’ scoreboard in Stadium Stampede 2! Plus, he talks about meeting Jim Ross in Oklahoma, growing up with Danny Hodge, and preparing for the zombie apocalypse.

55 min

50

The All Elite Moments, Matches & Surprises of 2021

Tony Schiavone and Ref Aubrey share behind-the-scenes stories about some of their favorite AEW memories, moments, matches, and surprises of 2021! First and foremost, they talk about AEW’s return to the road, and welcoming back full crowds! They also share thoughts on the proverbial kick-down of the “forbidden door,” Shaquille O’Neal vs Cody Rhodes, Blood & Guts and that crazy cage match between the Inner Circle and The Pinnacle, the debut of AEW RAMPAGE, and the arrival of so much tremendous talent to AEW including Paul Wight, Christian Cage, Mark Henry, Ethan Page, Adam Cole, Malakai Black, CM Punk, Bryan Danielson, Ruby Soho, and Lio Rush. They also discuss some of their favorite matches and performances like the Lights Out match between Dr. Britt Baker D.M.D. and Thunder Rosa, CM Punk’s first match back, The Lucha Bros vs The Young Bucks at AEW ALL OUT, Miro the Redeemer, and Darby Allin.

55 min