On the latest PWI Podcast, hosts Al Castle and Brian R. Solomon are joined by fellow PWI writer (and author of the cover story in the June 2023 edition of the magazine) Jason McVeigh. Together, they discuss the headlines coming out of IMPACT Wrestling's Rebellion pay-per-view, including new World champions in Steve Maclin and Deonna Purrazzo and the arrival of one Nick Aldis. Plus: What might AEW have in store for the August 27 All In show at Wembley Stadium? How could CM Punk, FTR, and The Elit...
Apr 20, 2023•1 hr 10 min•Ep. 203
After a lengthy break, PWI's indie wrestling-focused podcast, Pro Wrestling INDIEstrated, returns. On this episode, "The Good Witch" Kaia McKenna opens up at length about her recovery process following multiple bouts with a nagging injury. She reveals the physical and mental steps that she took in order to finally return to the ring better than ever. pwi-online.com
Apr 19, 2023•44 min•Ep. 202
On this episode of The PWI Podcast, Al Castle and Brian R. Solomon are joined by Editor-in-Chief Kevin McElvaney to discuss the fallout from WrestleMania 39, including what the future may hold for Cody Rhodes, the implications of WWE's impending sale to Endeavor, and the return of Vince McMahon backstage. pwi-online.com
Apr 04, 2023•1 hr 25 min•Ep. 201
Today on the PWI Podcast, Al Castle and Brian R. Solomon are joined by PWI Contributing Writer Scott Fishman. Together, they offer an extensive preview of all the action expected to take place at WrestleMania 39, including an in-depth rundown of the WrestleMania 39 match card. pwi-online.com
Mar 29, 2023•1 hr 40 min•Ep. 200
Today on the PWI Podcast, Al Castle and Brian R. Solomon are joined by fellow PWI writer Pat Laprade. Together, they discuss a range of topics, including the AEW Revolution PPV, Pat's thoughts on fellow Quebec natives Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn, and women's wrestling at WrestleMania 39. pwi-online.com
Mar 07, 2023•1 hr 17 min•Ep. 199
On this episode of The PWI Podcast, Al Castle and Brian R. Solomon go through the winners, runners-up, and potential snubs of the latest #PWIAwards. Plus, a review of the main-event picture heading into WrestleMania. Will we see Sami Zayn inserted into a triple-threat with Roman Reigns and Cody Rhodes? pwi-online.com
Feb 17, 2023•1 hr 24 min•Ep. 198
After a bit of a holiday break, hosts Al Castle and Brian R. Solomon are back with a new episode of The PWI Podcast. And they're joined by PWI Editor-in-Chief Kevin McElvaney to reflect on the tragic passing of Jay Briscoe*, as well as the impressive legacy he leaves both in the ring and behind the curtain. Plus: a "PWI Roundtable" discussion about Vince McMahon's controversial return to WWE and the prospects of the company being sold. pwi-online.com...
Jan 26, 2023•1 hr 16 min•Season 1Ep. 197
On the final PWI Podcast of 2022, Al Castle and Brian R. Solomon are joined by Senior Writer Harry Burkett for a review of 2022's big stories, including the departure of Vince McMahon and the rise to power of Triple H, AEW's struggles amidst backstage chaos, and who might be able to dethrone Roman Reigns as Unified champ. Plus: Brian shares some memories of Christmas parties at WWE from his time as an employee. www.pwi-online.com
Dec 27, 2022•1 hr 10 min•Ep. 196
On this episode of the PWI Podcast, Al Castle and Brian R. Solomon discuss recent PPV offerings from WWE and AEW (Survivor Series + Full Gear), juxtaposing the recent presentations and policies of the top two American promotions. Then, Al shares his conversation with IMPACT Wrestling referee Brian Hebner, discussing, among other things, his recent campaign to have his famous family members (dad Earl and uncle Dave) inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame. Change.org petition for the Hebners and the W...
Dec 09, 2022•1 hr 48 min•Ep. 195
On this episode of The PWI Podcast, hosts Al Castle and Brian R. Solomon are joined by PWI Contributing Writer Candace Cordelia for a discussion of the 2022 PWI Women's 150, paying special attention to the top 10 and the influence of World Wonder Ring Stardom. Plus: Discussion of some recent news topics from the wrestling world. Get the Women's 150 issue at www.pwi-online.com
Nov 17, 2022•1 hr 30 min•Ep. 194
On this episode of The PWI Podcast, Al Castle & Brian R. Solomon are joined by a very special guest in author Keith Elliot Greenberg, who joins Al and Brian for a look back at wrestling in the pandemic era and its continued influence on the sport. Buy Keith's book: https://www.amazon.com/Follow-Buzzards-Pro-Wrestling-COVID-19/dp/177041598X/ref=sr_1_1?qid=1668177831&refinements=p_27%3AKeith+Elliot+Greenberg&s=books&sr=1-1
Nov 11, 2022•1 hr 3 min•Ep. 193
On this episode of The PWI Podcast, hosts Al Castle and Brian R. Solomon are back in the saddle with lots to discuss. Topics include the legendary life and career of Antonio Inoki, the return of Bray Wyatt to WWE (and the pros/cons thereof), and IMPACT Wrestling's place in the wrestling landscape post-Bound For Glory Get the PWI "500" issue on newsstands or at pwi-online.com
Oct 17, 2022•1 hr 16 min•Ep. 192
On this episode of Pro Wrestling INDIEstrated, Kevin and Kaia continue their series spotlighting various territories of the independent scene by venturing (virtually) to one of the newest and most promising wrestling territories: Alaska! Ahead of the imminent WrestlePro Alaska mini-tour, our hosts are joined by Freya The Slaya (OVW, FSW) and Deonn Rusman (WrestlePro, Black & Brave Wrestling Academy), who discuss their unique experiences as Alaska natives turned pro wrestlers. Follow WrestleP...
Sep 30, 2022•1 hr 8 min•Ep. 191
On this episode of The PWI Podcast, hosts Al Castle and Brian R. Solomon are joined by Editor-in-Chief Kevin McElvaney to discuss the 2022 PWI "500" and the public response to it: good, bad, and indifferent. While analyzing some of the wrestlers near the top of the list, various news stories and rumors are addressed related to a few of those wrestlers. If you've got questions about the current state of the list (or where it might be headed), this one is a must-hear. Get the "500" issues at pwi-o...
Sep 19, 2022•1 hr 14 min•Ep. 190
On this episode of The PWI Podcast, Al Castle and Brian R. Solomon are joined by longtime listener, first-time caller, and PWI Contributing Writer Jason McVeigh. Together, they preview WWE's upcoming PPV return to the U.K., Clash at the Castle, while discussing some other recent news and rumors, including alleged backstage heat at AEW. Plus, Al Castle shares his recent "Hotseat" interview with Eddie Kingston. Follow Jason: https://twitter.com/jbladeko Subscribe to PWI: https://prowrestlingillust...
Aug 31, 2022•1 hr 42 min•Ep. 189
We're back! (Not A Dinosaur's Story.) Today on Pro Wrestling INDIEstrated, Kaia McKenna and Kevin McElvaney are talking about fanzines in the world of professional wrestling. Joining us are special guests Robert Newsome (The Atomic Elbow) and Elm Hill (Wrestling With Gender) for an awesome discussion of all things DIY publishing and wrestling. Follow Robert: https://twitter.com/atomic_elbow Follow Elm: https://twitter.com/fagandtoad Follow Kaia: https://twitter.com/KaiaMcK Support Kaia's "Good W...
Aug 23, 2022•1 hr 35 min•Ep. 188
On this episode of The PWI Podcast, Al Castle and Brian R. Solomon are joined by legendary photographer, journalist, and magazine publisher George Napolitano, who photographed SummerSlam 2022 for PWI and shot ringside for Ric Flair's Last Match. George talks about both events, while also reminiscing about his long history covering the sport. Follow George: https://twitter.com/Starshot9 Subscribe to PWI: https://prowrestlingillustrated.secure.darwin.cx/I21APWIP...
Aug 12, 2022•1 hr 21 min•Ep. 187
This week on The PWI Podcast, Al Castle & Brian R. Solomon are joined by our magazine's Art Director, Laura Brubaker, for a peek behind the scenes of the design side of Pro Wrestling Illustrated. Then, Editor-in-Chief Kevin McElvaney stops by to discuss the retirement of Vince McMahon and what that might mean for WWE. Buy Brian's book: https://www.amazon.com/Blood-Fire-Unbelievable-Real-Life-Wrestlings/dp/1770415807/ Subscribe to PWI: https://prowrestlingillustrated.secure.darwin.cx/I21APWIP...
Jul 28, 2022•1 hr 48 min•Ep. 186
This week, there is once again quite a bit to talk about in the land of WWE. The bulk of this episode focuses on the latest reporting from the Wall Street Journal around NDAs and allegations against Vince McMahon. Al Castle and Brian R. Solomon discuss whether these allegations might lead to any changes, structurally or culturally, within the wrestling industry leader (and what sort of responsibility wrestling media might take in these situations). Plus: lighter conversation about this year's Mo...
Jul 19, 2022•1 hr 12 min•Ep. 185
It's the landmark 200th episode of The PWI Podcast. To celebrate, Al Castle and Brian Solomon are joined by a very special guest in Al's former cohost, longtime PWI writer Dan Murphy. Dan talks about his latest projects—including his relationship with wrestling since stepping away from the magazine—before jumping into a discussion of a particularly busy period in pro wrestling news. Topics covered include the latest Vince McMahon scandal, the current triumphs and struggles of WWE and AEW, Cody R...
Jun 21, 2022•1 hr 31 min•Ep. 184
Mere days from the highly anticipated Pride & Vibe Weekend at the Knights of Columbus in Ridgefield Park, NJ, Kaia & Kevin are joined by promoter/wrestler Billy Dixon, who organized the two-day event and will be competing in this final match during the festivities. Billy discusses the importance of LGTBQ+ representation, running shows during a pandemic, and gives reluctant praise to their final opponent Darius Carter. Then, Twitter's favorite wrestler Candy Lee checks in from "Hotlanta" ...
Jun 14, 2022•1 hr 29 min•Ep. 183
JPQ returns with the third and final part of his "Snapshot" of the current state of women's wrestling in Japan. This week, he's joined by prolific podcast and journalist Scott E. Wrestling for a "Mid-Season Review." JPQ and Scott select their best and most improved wrestlers, top performers, breakout stars, and big moments of 2022 from Stardom, TJPW, Ice Ribbon, WAVE, NOMADS, Sendai, Marvelous, Seadlinnng, and the field of freelancers. Follow JPQ: https://twitter.com/Bigpawsonapup Follow Scott: ...
Jun 13, 2022•2 hr 12 min•Ep. 182
Ahead of GCW's Tournament of Survival 7, Kaia McKenna and Kevin McElvaney are joined by two of the entrants, who will be facing off in the first round: Hoodfoot and Rina Yamashita. First, Hoodfoot discusses his preparation for that round one encounter, how his past experiences in wrestling have informed his approach to deathmatches, and what it's like traveling after the most brutal matches possible. Then, Rina Yamashita (with translations by Mr. Haku) shares her thoughts on Hoodfoot, competing ...
May 31, 2022•1 hr 15 min•Ep. 181
On the latest PWI Podcast, Al Castle & Brian R. Solomon discuss the potential issues that led Sasha Banks and Naomi to walk out during Monday Night Raw, and whether or not WWE will eventually come to regret the way it handled the situation. Plus: Is Ric Flair's upcoming "last match" a good idea? All that, plus Al shares the audio version of his full "Hotseat" interview with NWA promoter Billy Corgan from the August 2022 "Supercards" edition of PWI, which hits stores next week (and subscriber...
May 28, 2022•1 hr 42 min•Ep. 180
JPQ is back with part two of his "Snapshot" of the current state of women's wrestling in Japan. This week, he's joined by good pal Parker Klyn (Wrestling Observer/F4WOnline) for a discussion of joshi at home and abroad, with multiple Japanese wrestlers making scheduled appearances this season on American soil. Plus, JPQ & Parker get into the weeds with Ice Ribbon, NOMADS, Color's, and more. Follow JPQ: https://twitter.com/Bigpawsonapup...
May 19, 2022•1 hr 32 min•Ep. 179
JPQ returns with another edition of his popular Just Joshi podcast. This time, he's joined once again by Alex Richards (Last Word On Sports, Stardom Quest podcast) for part one of a series of "Snapshot" episodes about various Japanese women's wrestling promotions. This week's show includes heaps of analysis of Stardom, including its recent Cinderella tourney. Plus, Pro Wrestling WAVE, Actwres girl'z, the possibility of another joshi supershow featuring multiple promotions, and much more. Follow ...
May 16, 2022•1 hr 24 min•Ep. 178
On the latest PWI Podcast, Al Castle & Brian Solomon discuss the prospect of WWE with Roman Reigns moving to a part-time schedule, and what this could mean for the likes of Cody Rhodes, Randy Orton, and more. Then, on the heels of Al's attendance at the recent Long Island Smackdown and Dynamite tapings, our hosts analyze the main event scene at All Elite Wrestling, including Adam Page's performance as champion. Finally, Candace Cordelia Smith's interview with MLW's "Clout Couple," Richard Ho...
May 12, 2022•1 hr 15 min•Ep. 177
Today, Kaia McKenna and Kevin McElvaney head off to wrestling school! First, we're joined by one of Kaia's original trainers, Marek Brave, who runs the Black & Brave Wrestling Academy with WWE superstar Seth Rollins. Marek discusses the school's philosophy of training, the value of an athletic background for pro wrestlers, and the origin of Seth Rollins' famous laugh. Plus, The World Famous CB (Cheeseburger) talks about taking up the mantle of the former ROH training facility, balancing his ...
May 05, 2022•1 hr 38 min•Ep. 176
On the latest episode of The PWI Podcast, Al Castle & Brian Solomon discuss a range of post-WrestleMania topics, with special emphasis on the state of IMPACT Wrestling and what the future might hold for Ring of Honor. Plus, Al shares the audio from his recent interview with AEW star/FTW champ Ricky Starks. Follow Al: https://twitter.com/alcastlepwi Follow Brian: https://twitter.com/BrianRSolomon Subscribe to Pro Wrestling Illustrated: https://prowrestlingillustrated.secure.darwin.cx/I22APWIP...
May 03, 2022•1 hr 19 min•Ep. 175
In our continuing efforts to documentary indie wrestling, both domestic and international, Pro Wrestling INDIEstrated is back with an episode focused on the independent scene in Japan. Today, Kevin McElvaney and Kaia McKenna are joined by two guests. First, Drew Parker discusses what it was like to transition from the U.K. indies to main event deathmatches at Big Japan Wrestling. Then, PWI Photographer Issa Marie stops by to give us the low down on all things Dragon Gate. Follow Drew: https://tw...
Apr 18, 2022•1 hr 13 min•Ep. 174
