Pro Wrestling Illustrated Presents

Ep. 268: Dear John & Saint Mick (w/ Harry Burkett)

As has become tradition, Al Castle & Brian R. Solomon are joined by PWI Senior Writer Harry Burkett for the final PWI Podcast of the year. Together, they examine John Cena's last match and its ensuing fallout. They also look at the recent successes of The Hardys (the #1 team in this year's #TagTeam100) before discussing Mick Foley's recent announcement that he would be departing WWE, citing the company's continued association with President Donald Trump. All this, plus a look at the current trajectories of WWE and AEW as we look back on 2025 and ahead to 2026. 

Ep. 267: Wrestling Power Couple Goals (w/ Deonna Purrazzo & Steve Maclin)

On this episode of the #pwipodcast, Steve Maclin (TNA Wrestling) and Deonna Purrazzo (AEW, ROH) join PWI's Al Castle and Brian R. Solomon to discuss their pro wrestling efforts in their respective companies, how they've weathered some of the challenges thrown their way, and their podcast  ⁨@BootsToBootsPod⁩ .​

PWINDIE: Laynie Luck, WWE ID Women's Champion

On this episode of #ProWrestlingINDIEstrated, first presented live on YouTube and X, hosts Kaia McKenna & Kevin McElvaney are joined by the newly crowned (and second-ever) WWE ID Women's champion Laynie Luck for a conversation about her upward trajectory, long path to success, and intentions for the future.

Ep. 266: The 2025 Women's 250 (w/ Lyric Swinton, Kristen Ashley)

On this edition of #ThePWIPodcast, Al Castle & Brian R. Solomon are joined by fellow #PWI contributors Kristen Ashley and Lyric Swinton, members of the 2025 #Womens250 committee, to break down the top 10 of the list.

Ep. 265: Too Many Titles In Pro Wrestling?

On this edition of the #PWIPodcast, Al Castle & Brian R. Solomon weigh in on the additional championships being added to AEW programming (as well as Mercedes Mone's collection). Plus: What is the best possible outcome for the WWE tournament to determine John Cena's final opponent? Plus: Thoughts on Jade Cargill, the current state of tag team wrestling, and much more.

Ep. 264: You Drive Me Ape (You Big Gorilla)

On this episode of the #PWIPodcast, Brian R. Solomon talks at length with fellow host (and #PWI writer) Al Castle about his Gorilla Monsoon biography, Irresistible Force, sharing insight on one of the most beloved voices in WWF history. Plus, TNA Bound for Glory and WWE Crown Jewel: Perth are reviewed, while AEW WrestleDream is previewed.

Ep. 263: The 35th Annual PWI 500

On this edition of the #PWIPodcast, Al Castle is joined by guest cohost Jason McVeigh and #PWI Editor-in-Chief Kevin McElvaney to discuss the 2025 #PWI500 ranking, with a special focus on the criteria used to evaluate the top 10 ranked wrestlers.

Ep. 262: WrestleMania In Saudi Arabia, Rising Ticket Prices, & More

On this episode of the #PWIPodcast, longtime #PWI contributor Dan Murphy returns to speak with Al Castle & Brian R. Solomon about a range of topics, including:

- The implications of WrestleMania in Saudi Arabia
- The impact of ticket prices on profits, fans
- The return of AJ Lee to WWE TV

... and much more!

Ep. 261: Raja Jackson-Syko Stu Incident (w/ Bryan Idol)

NWA TV champion Bryan Idol joins PWI's Al Castle, Brian R. Solomon, and Jason McVeigh to discuss the recent incident at KnokX Pro Wrestling involving Raja Jackson (son of Rampage Jackson) and Syko Stu, which resulted in Stu being hospitalized with severe injuries. The conversation focuses on the various factors that contributed to the situation, what might have prevented it, potential consequences for those involved, and what lessons (if any) the wrestling industry can learn from this going forward.

Stu's Gofundme campaign: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-support-sykostus-recovery-journey 

Ep. 260: Is Kayfabe Dead? (And Other Unreal Concerns)

On this episode of The PWI Podcast, Al Castle & Brian R. Solomon are joined by PWI Editor-in-Chief Kevin McElvaney to discuss the fallout from WWE SummerSlam, along with a host of other topics:

• WWE Unreal and the delicate balance between reality and fiction
• What was the impact of Seth Rollins' apparent injury?
• Brock Lesnar's controversial return to WWE programming
• A post-mortem on John Cena's notorious heel turn

Plus: a teaser concerning the upcoming #PWI500 list and much more

PWINDIE: Jamesen Shook, 2025 SCI Winner

On this episode of the #PWINDIE podcast, Kaia McKenna & Kevin McElvaney are joined by 2025 Scenic City Invitational winner (and one-half of the ‪#IWTV‬ World tag team champions) Jamesen Shook to discuss his victory in the SCI tournament, his recent "My Kink Is Karma" show on IWTV, and more.

Ep. 259: Hulk Hogan Remembered (w/ Stu Saks)

On this episode of the #PWIPodcast, Al Castle & Brian R. Solomon are joined by longtime PWI Publisher & Editor-in-Chief Stu Saks to discuss the vast and complicated legacy of Hulk Hogan, from his WrestleMania triumphs and undeniable influence (including on our magazine) to his scandals and pitfalls. What will The Hulkster's legacy be when all is said and done?

Ep. 258: Crow Or Humble Pie? (w/ Paul E. Pratt)

On this episode of the #PWIPodcast, Al Castle & Brian R. Solomon are joined by fellow PWI contributor Paul E. Pratt to discuss some of the week's biggest news stories, with focus on recent events from AEW (All In), WWE (Saturday Night's Main Event, Evolution), and TNA (Slammiversary).

Ep. 257 - Punk & Circumstance (w/ Scott Fishman)

On this episode of the #PWIPodcast, Al Castle & Brian R. Solomon are joined by fellow PWI contributor Scott Fishman to discuss the recent Night of Champions PLE, including WWE's controversial relationship with the Saudi Arabian government, CM Punk's apology, and the King & Queen of the Ring tournaments. Plus: Goldberg's return to WWE for Saturday Night's Main Event, previewing AEW All In, and more.

Ep. 256: Truth & Consequences (w/ Cameron Hawkins)

On this episode of the #PWIPodcast, Al Castle & Brian R. Solomon are joined by fellow PWI contributor Cameron Hawkins (@CeeHawk) for a lively and insightful discussion covering a wide range of topics:

• The return of Ron Killing (R-Truth) to WWE 
• His future prospects
• What the latest World title change means for Jey Uso & Gunther
• WWE's diversity challenges with its main roster
• Candid thoughts on CM Punk wrestling in Saudi Arabia

And much more. 

Ep. 255: Death Riders Death Spiral (w/ Jason McVeigh)

On this episode of the #PWIPodcast, Al Castle & Brian R. Solomon are joined once again by fellow PWI writer Jason McVeigh for an in-depth review of AEW Double or Nothing. Plus: Thoughts on the WWE NXT-TNA relationship, WWE's rollback of house shows, and much more.

Ep. 254: Lucha, WWE Style (w/ Alfonso Lopez)

On this episode of the #PWIPodcast, Al Castle & Brian R. Solomon are joined by fellow PWI writer Alfonso Lopez to discuss WWE's purchase of Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide and all the implications around it: how each company might benefit or change, which stars could be involved, and what impact this may have on the rival CMLL promotion. Plus: The legacy of Sabu, reactions to WWE Backlash, and more.

Ep. 253: WrestleMania 41 Review

On this episode of the #PWIPodcast, Al Castle & Brian R. Solomon reconvene for an in-depth review of WrestleMania 41, discussing everything from the controversial main event match between Cody Rhodes and John Cena to the influence (for better and worse) of the live crowd. 

Ep. 252: WrestleMania 41 Official Preview

On the new #PWIPodcast, Al Castle & Brian R. Solomon are joined by Senior Writer Harry Burkett and Editor Kevin McElvaney to preview #WrestleMania41. Plus: In an unexpected turn of events, the guys relitigate the controversial ending to WrestleMania IX. 

PWINDIE: Rhio Las Vegas (w/ Rhio)

Pro Wrestling INDIEstrated is back after a long absence with hosts Kaia McKenna and PWI Editor-in-Chief Kevin McElvaney. Today, they are joined by former PROGRESS and ICW (Scotland) Women's champion Rhio, who is currently one of the top names on the U.K. wrestling scene. They look ahead to Rhio's rematch for the PROGRESS Women's championship at PROGRESS Las Vegas, the WrestleMania Week show where she'll face Nina Samuels and Vertvixen in a triple-threat. Plus, how will Rhio use her ICW Square Go briefcase? And how do American wrestling fans compare to their counterparts in the United Kingdom? 

Ep. 251: WrestleManias, Past + Present (w/ Keith Elliot Greenberg)

On this episode of the #PWIPodcast, Al Castle & Brian R. Solomon are joined by author Keith Elliot Greenberg to discuss how WrestleMania (and particularly WrestleMania III) transformed the pro wrestling industry. Plus: The multitude of multi-person bouts planned for WrestleMania 41. And are we buying John Cena's explanations for his recent heel turn?

Ep. 250: AEW Revolution In Review + Brian's Victory Lap

On Episode 250 of the #PWIPodcast, Al Castle and Brian R. Solomon are joined by PWI Editor Kevin McElvaney for an in-depth (and, at times, heated) discussion of #AEWRevolution. Plus, Brian takes his version of a victory lap after foretelling John Cena's heel turn.

Ep. 249: Talking About Wrestling And Talking (w/ Evan Ginzburg)

On this episode of The PWI Podcast, Al Castle and Brian R. Solomon are joined by writer and historian Evan Ginzburg (The Wrestler, Pro Wrestling Stories). Together, they debate the pros and cons of the WWE and AEW presentations of the sport. Plus, Evan discusses his new book, previous experiences as an associate producer for Darren Aronofsky, experiences as a fan, and much more.

Ep. 248: Rumble Redux (Blondes Have More Fun Edition)

On this episode of the #PWIPodcast, Al Castle and Brian R. Solomon are joined by Pro Wrestling Illustrated Editor-in-Chief Kevin McElvaney to discuss the winners of this year's #RoyalRumble matches (Jey Uso & Charlotte Flair), what the #wrestlemania41 card is shaping up to be, and the takeaways from this year's #PWIAwards.

Ep. 247: The Rock & A Hulk Place (w/ Scott Fishman)

On this episode of The PWI Podcast, hosts Al Castle and Brian R. Solomon are joined by fellow Pro Wrestling Illustrated contributor Scott Fishman to discuss Raw's Netflix debut and various topics of debate sparked by it, such as the trajectories of The Rock and Hulk Hogan. Plus: What might John Cena's retirement run look like? When will Joe Hendry's time come? And Brian provides an update on his forthcoming Gorilla Monsoon biography.

Ep. 246: Holiday Show 2024

On the year's final episode of The PWI Podcast, Al Castle and Brian R. Solomon are joined by Jason McVeigh to discuss the state of WWE, AEW, and TNA as 2024 becomes 2025. Plus: looking back on the return of Saturday Night's Main Event, this year's "Tag Team 100" ranking, and more.

Ep. 245: Holiday Headlock (w/ Mike Bessler)

On this episode of The PWI Podcast, hosts Al Castle and Brian R. Solomon are joined by fellow PWI contributor Mike Bessler to talk about the evolving tradition of pro wrestling around the major holidays. They also discuss the recent WWE Survivor Series and AEW Full Gear events (with special focus on the Costco guys.)

Ep. 244: Vault Selections, Trump & WWE (w/ Louie Dee)

On this episode of The PWI Podcast, longtime Contributing Writer Louie Dee makes his return to chat with hosts Al Castle and Brian R. Solomon about the WWE Vault, Donald Trump's relationship with WWE, and more.

PWINDIE: Logan Knight's Noble Quest

On this episode of Pro Wrestling INDIEstrated, Kaia McKenna & Kevin McElvaney are joined by independent wrestler Logan Knight to discuss his ongoing battle with the Oklahoma State Athletic Commission regarding the right of transgender wrestlers to perform and for indie wrestlers to square off in intergender matches.

PWINDIE: Landon Hale's Breakout Year

On this episode of the #PWINDIE podcast, hosts Kaia McKenna & Kevin McElvaney are joined by Landon Hale, who has had an exciting run on the American and international indie circuits, for a heartfelt and enlightening conversation. Topics of discussion include Hale's experiences in wXw (Germany), wrestling Paul London, and much more.

Ep. 243: Women's 250 In Review (w/ Patricia Rogers)

With Brian R. Solomon on assignment, Al Castle is joined by Queen P.R. (Patricia Rogers, Those Wrestling Girls) for a wide-ranging discussion on PWI's "Women's 250," Black representation in WWE, and so much more.

Ep. 242: Mr. McMemes (w/ Kristen Ashly & Memes)

On this Brady Bunch-sized edition of The PWI Podcast, hosts Al Castle and Brian R. Solomon are joined by fellow PWI contributor Kristen Ashly, as well as the #500-ranked wrestler of 2024, Memes (aka Blue Pain/Blue Kane). Together, they discuss the "PWI 500" issue, which just hit newsstands across the U.S. and Canada, with a special focus on the "500" spot and women ranking on the list. Plus, an in-depth look at the new Netflix series, Mr. McMahon, and the complicated, yet incomplete portrait it paints of Vince McMahon's life and legacy.

PWINDIE: Alexis Lee Is Friggin' Great!

On this episode of the #PWINDIE podcast, hosts Kaia McKenna & Kevin McElvaney are joined by Alexis "Friggin'" Lee for a fun, captivating conversation about Lee's career. Topics include wrestling in her native Singapore, her series with Yuki Kamifuku (Kamiyu), and the upcoming Jam of Joshis event.

PWINDIE: Hyan, Queen Of The Indies

On this episode of the Pro Wrestling INDIEstrated podcast, Hyan joins hosts Kaia McKenna & Kevin McElvaney to reflect on her recent victory in West Coast Pro Wrestling's prestigious Queen of the Indies tournament, her recent appearances for TNA, Deadlock Pro, and F1RST Wrestling, and much more.

Ep. 241 - The 2024 PWI 500 (w/ Big Dust)

On this episode of The PWI Podcast, Al Castle and Brian R. Solomon are joined by Dustin Wilson (Big Dust), who ranked #500 in the 2022 PWI 500. After some discussion of Wilson's forthcoming documentary, #Being500, the three dive in to this year's PWI 500 list, discussing the criteria, some of the surprises on the list, and more.

Ep. 240: Much Ado About Wembley (w/ Jason McVeigh)

On this episode of The PWI Podcast, Al Castle is joined by guest cohost, PWI U.K. correspondent (and self-professed Sideshow Mel) Jason McVeigh, for a preview of the upcoming All In event at Wembley Stadium.

Plus: Post-show analysis of SummerSlam, with a special focus on the futures of Gunther and Damian Priest; remembering Kevin Sullivan; and more.

Ep. 239: Roxanne Perez Interview, Wrestling & Politics

On this episode of The PWI Podcast, Al Castle & Brian R. Solomon discuss a bevy of recent hot topics, including Hulk Hogan hitching his wagon to the Donald Trump presidential campaign at the RNC, John Cena's upcoming retirement tour (and his legacy, especially as compared to Roman Reigns), and many other topics. Plus, Al Castle shares his recent conversation with WWE NXT Women's champion Roxanne Perez.

PWINDIE: Setting A World Record In Nepal (w/ Dani Mo)

Dani Mo has kept a busy schedule as of late, between her usual busy slate of singles matches and tag bouts (w/ Facade as The Neon Blondes). But she also made history, with a certified world record for the highest altitude ever for a women's wrestling match. Dani details her recent trip to Nepal, the difficulties of performing at such an altitude, and more.

Creating Viral Wrestling Magic (w/ Viva Van)

On this episode of the #PWINDIE podcast, Viva Van joins hosts Kaia McKenna & Kevin McElvaney to chat about her upcoming title opportunity at #fantasticamania, creating a viral moment with Man Like DeReiss and Fuego Del Sol over WrestleMania Weekend, and her goals for the future.

Ep. 238: Forbidden Door Preview, Who Killed WCW, Sika Anoi'a (w/ Righteous Reg)

On this episode of The PWI Podcast, Al Castle & Brian R. Solomon are joined by Righteous Reg to discuss the legacy of Sika, the Forbidden Door concept (and how it has evolved), VICE TV's Who Killed WCW? series, and much more.

PWINDIE: Live! With Vinnie Massaro

The Grandmaster of Sicilian Jiu-Jitsu joins Pro Wrestling INDIEstrated hosts Kaia McKenna & Kevin McElvaney for a freewheeling discussion of independent wrasslin'. Due to some strong language, listener discretion is advised.

Ep. 237: Mustafa Ali 2024 (Interview), Double Or Nothing, King & Queen Of The Ring

On this episode of The PWI Podcast, Senior Writer Al Castle shares his extended phone conversation with would-be TNA X division champion Mustafa Ali, who opens up for the first time about the genesis of his ingenious politician character and marketing campaign. But first: Al is joined by cohost, fellow PWI Contributing Writer Brian R. Solomon, to discuss the recent AEW Double or Nothing and WWE King & Queen of the Ring events. 

Ep. 236: Lucha Libre & WWE, Future International PLEs? (w/ Alfonso Lopez)

On this episode of The PWI Podcast, hosts Al Castle & Brian R. Solomon are joined by one of PWI's newest contributors, Alfonso Lopez, for a wide-ranging discussion about the current state lucha libre (AAA, CMLL), WWE's growing presence in Europe and Mexico, and the possibility of future big-time events in those countries. Plus: The AEW EVP storyline, how it may have rebounded, and playing to the strengths of wrestlers with limitations.

Brian's Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ShutUpandWrestle
PWI June issue: https://pwi-online.com/product/june-2024-mustafa-ali-we-trust/

PWINDIE: 10 Belts & Counting (w/ Nina Samuels)

This episode of Pro Wrestling INDIEstrated becomes The Nina Samuels Show, as the former NXT U.K. superstar joins PWINDIE hosts Kaia McKenna and Kevin McElvaney to chat about her growing championship belt collection, U.K. and European independent promotions (including  @ProWrestlingEVE , @RiotCabaret , and @luchabritannia ), and her upcoming challenge of Rhio at @progresswrestling 's #sss16 weekend.

PWINDIE: Mania Week In Philly (w/ Val Pancakes)

On this episode of The PWI Podcast, Kaia McKenna & Kevin McElvaney are joined by WrestleMania Week correspondent Val Pancakes for a review of the various indie shows in and around Philadelphia, including offerings from the GCW Collective (Big Gay Brunch, Clusterf**k) and IWTV (ACTION Wrestling DEAN~!!, ETU), among others.

Ep. 235: Forty In Philly + Shots Across The Bow (w/ Kevin McElvaney)

On Episode 235 of The PWI Podcast, Al Castle & Brian R. Solomon are joined by PWI Editor Kevin McElvaney for a discussion of the controversial April 10 edition of AEW Dynamite, as well as a look at WrestleMania 40 and the events surrounding it.

Ep. 234: WrestleMania 40 Preview

On this episode of The PWI Podcast, Al Castle & Brian R. Solomon welcome back PWI Senior Writer Harry Burkett to preview the WrestleMania 40 card and make predictions. Plus, a fun sidebar on classic wrestling magazines, from the Pro Wrestling Illustrated and WWE families.

PWINDIE: ACTION, Boys & Girls (w/ Matt Griffin)

On this edition of the Pro Wrestling INDIEstrated podcast, Kaia McKenna & Kevin McElvaney are joined by ACTION Wrestling CEO, promoter, and booker Matt Griffin. to discuss some upcoming events, particularly the DEAN~!!! (DVDVR tribute) event over WrestleMania 40 weekend. Griffin also praises Adam Priest, whom he will be managing against Darius Carter at the upcoming ThrashElvania event. It's a fun episode you'll not want to miss!

EP. 233: New Toy Syndrome (w/ Jason McVeigh)

On this episode of The PWI Podcast, hosts Al Castle & Brian R. Solomon are joined by PWI Contributing Writer Jason McVeigh to share their individual reactions to Okada and Mone's AEW debuts, Sting's retirement at Revolution, the increasingly unusual build to Cody Rhodes' big match at WrestleMania 40, and much more.

PWINDIE: From Chaotic & Beyond to MLW: Rich Palladino's Ring Announcing Journey

Pro Wrestling INDIEstrated's Kaia McKenna and Kevin McElvaney welcome veteran ring announcer Rich Palladino, who discusses some of the highlights of his 30-year career, from his early days at the likes of Chaotic Wrestling and ECW to his current gigs at Wrestling Open and Major League Wrestling.