Explore every episode of the podcast The Mount Rushmore of Wrestling
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 061 The Mount Rushmore of Animals in Wrestling | 20 Feb 2026 | 01:48:05 | |
This week on The Mount Rushmore of Wrestling, we went full Steve Irwin (too soon?) Marlon Perkins (too late?) National Geographic (too litigious?) wildlife documentary. From psychologically weaponized reptiles to beloved avian sidekicks, we built our definitive Mount Rushmore of actual non-human animals in wrestling history. No Road Warrior Animal. No Dave "The Animal" Bautista. Not even Mr. Iguana. Just real animals, real chaos, and real human emotion. About animals. Come sink your teeth into this episode! ** SHOW NOTES AND SPOILERS Boogeyman’s scariest moments: WWE Top 10, Oct. 24, 2021 - YouTube WWE Hall of Fame: Koko B. Ware Koko B. Ware on Frankie's death Jake the Snake Roberts and Damien Jake The Snake Roberts on the Many Different Versions of Damien Jake Roberts on Earthquake crushing Damien! All of Eric's links on Matilda: DEBUT: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fCAXFUIQcNo HEENAN: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YtwrFx1OWQE DOGNAP: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EfrkEBewv94 PLEA: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8HOnkI1Q9wU UPDATE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_lOqef0ekUc UPDATE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T-zrQTt_dfk PROMO: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6XT_npqvWXc PRESS CONF: https://youtu.be/HG75o0NZLgc?si=9_vQsJYjO1v72eh9&t=259 UECKER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YP-zbOU7Erg PROMO: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mdeDQqnSE9c DOLL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dkpugDOKc9c A special feature on rats * A gorilla and a weasel talking about rats: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sPlQebt9HAw * Jim Cornette and Percy Pringle talking about rats at the Sportatorium: https://youtu.be/LMXTkDdjwig?si=mGV8oD5EEkDZrn1j&t=1545 (end at “ready to see rasslin’”) ** WEBSITE, SOCIAL MEDIA & EMAIL Website: https://themountrushmoreofwrestling.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/123rushmore Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/123rushmore YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@123Rushmore | |||
| 060 The Mount Rushmore of Wrestlers in Movies | 07 Feb 2026 | 01:50:22 | |
When pro wrestling and Hollywood collide, the results can be… ugly. But when it works, it creates iconic characters, endlessly quotable lines, and moments that live forever in pop culture. In this episode of The Mount Rushmore of Wrestling, Eric and Nate debate the four greatest movie performances by professional wrestlers—not just cameos, but roles that worked, mattered, and didn’t embarrass the business. They also welcome Chris Owens, the foremost Andre the Giant historian, for an all-time deep dive into The Princess Bride, Andre’s physical limitations, and why Fezzik might be the most important crossover role a wrestler has ever had. Do YOU have time to bleed? Of course not! But do you have time to listen? We certainly hope so. The Big Debates
As always, the arguments are passionate, informed, and very loud. | |||
| 059 The Mount Rushmore of John Cena (Part 2) | 12 Dec 2025 | 01:08:42 | |
The Doctors of Podanomics are back to wrap up their convo on the Mount Rushmore of John Cena! What match did Eric try sneaking up the side of his mountain? How did Nate take the news? Which of Cena's possibly greatest all-time opponents gets a nod, and which match does Eric think is Cena's greatest of all time? You can't see us, but you can hear us, so listen up, fools! ** BOB COOK GOFUNDME: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-the-cooker-bob-cook-recover ** SHOW NOTES AND SPOILERS FULL MATCH: Randy Orton vs. John Cena | WWE Title WWE Iron Man Match: Bragging Rights 2009 | |||
| 058 The Mount Rushmore of John Cena (Part One) | 11 Dec 2025 | 01:09:16 | |
His time is up, but our time is NOW! Time, that is, for Nate and Eric to discuss the Mount Rushmore of John Cena. Over his 23-year WWE career, yes, he's had his ups and downs in the ring--and with the crowd--but the ups were HUGE, and we're here to discuss them. Which matches were not just high quality, but high drama, high stakes, high crowd involvement, and probably even surprised us in some way? These are the matches that might make the cynical fan think, "I didn't know he had it in him!" Well guess what: He did, and we can see them. This is a two-parter leading up to John Cena's last match vs. GUNTHER at Saturday Night's Main Event on Dec. 13; enjoy this episode and keep an eye out for part two. *** BOB COOK GOFUNDME: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-the-cooker-bob-cook-recover *** SHOW NOTES AND SPOILERS: CM Punk - WWE Raw 06-27-11 Epic Promo Pipebomb The Rock and John Cena agree to meet at WrestleMania 28: WWE Raw "F You Cena, You Can't Wrestle, Boo Yay Boo Yay": https://www.peacocktv.com/watch/playback/vod/GMO_00000000375171_01/65b3abd2-ea3b-3119-a358-7c145de2260a | |||
| 057 The Mount Rushmore of Tag Team Matches | 27 Nov 2025 | 02:26:03 | |
Happy Thanksgiving! Your two favorite turkeys talk about the most amazing two on two matches--some might call tag team matches--in pro wrestling history. The context, the drama, the players, the historical significance, the matches we still talk about today because they're the standard bearers of the sub-genre of tag team wrestling within the genre-genre of professional wrestling. For whom would you need to overseas to watch their best matches? Or have ordered a low-buyrate pay-per-view? Or been alive 70-plus years ago? Or been a smelly ROH fan 18 years ago? (Hey, we were both that.) Tag, you're in--listen and find out! ** SHOW NOTES AND SPOILERS: From the New York Times itself: https://www.nytimes.com/1957/11/20/archives/wrestling-ends-in-riot-at-garden-2-policemen-hurt-as-fans-storm.html Future friend of the show Javier Ojst writes this: https://prowrestlingstories.com/pro-wrestling-stories/1957-msg-riot/ Toshiaki Kawada & Akira Taue (THE HOLY DEMON ARMY) vs. Mitsuharu Misawa & Kenta Kobashi (June 9, 1995): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X2OLvGT5ROU El Hijo del Santo & Octagon vs. Eddy Guerrero & Love Machine Art Barr: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=603U_62GeSg No Mercy 2002: Tag Team Championship Promo - YouTube FULL MATCH: Briscoes vs Kevin Steen & El Generico LADDER WAR! 9/15/2007 ROH Man UP | Hidden Classics | |||
| 056 The Mount Rushmore of Referees | 13 Nov 2025 | 01:50:29 | |
(Don't forget to rate and review our show, wherever you get our show!) Ah, the pro wrestling referee. Often vilified, rarely vindicated, frequently blamed for not catching the heel wrestlers cheat... but in reality, the unsung heroes--the heartbeat--of professional wrestling. If it weren't for the referee, how would wrestlers know to throw an opponent out of the ring and mug for the hard camera right before a commercial break? Who would throw up the "X" when a wrestler breaks his ankle? Even more, who would ask a wrestler if they want to submit, count them out of the ring, disqualify them for breaking the rules, or count a wrestler's shoulders to the mat--1, 2, 3? Referees play an important role in the drama of a wrestling match. But who were the best of the best? Which referees were trusted with the money-drawing main events? Who were on our television sets for years if not decades due to their skills? Who created their own memorable moments or trademarks? (Or who infringed on trademarks and sold knockoff T-shirts in the parking lot?) Nate and Eric count down their Mount Rushmores of Referees... make a clean break and listen! *** SHOW NOTES AND SPOILERS: The Rock & Earl Hebner Vs DX Part 1 - SMACKDOWN! Tony Schiavone accuses Referee Nick Patrick of being in the NWO! 1996 (WCW) Nick Patrick On Being The nWo Heel Referee The greatest run in WrestleMania history Charles Robinson: WWE's GOAT Referee On Brutal Bumps, His Viral Ramp Run, Iconic Matches, John Cena Jim Cornette on Tommy Young: https://youtu.be/vtVG7ulUMdo?si=Sookunvxvopy6JE-&t=95 Arn Anderson on Tommy Young: https://youtu.be/NBT57Kv_uBk?si=OQjXcpZiAwky2vgi&t=31 Ric Flair on Tommy Young: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9DwKVUmO6Tw Shawn Michaels paying tribute to Earl Hebner: https://youtu.be/TTArBJAVZog?si=sELvKXvw5F5uqYQl&t=230 Bret Hart on Earl… oops! https://youtu.be/U9ob-BZnhBQ?si=sSpJI4lEvsGam8XB&t=4309 Steve Austin on if Earl Hebner should go into the Hall of Fame: https://youtu.be/JiUTwJP-7mE?si=u28X9gNg_cyALs2F&t=19 | |||
| 055 The Mount Rushmore of Scariest Wrestlers | 31 Oct 2025 | 02:10:39 | |
Hello, boys and ghouls! (Not sure any ghouls listen to this show.) It's Halloween, so Eric tricked Nate into giving you listeners this treat: It's the Mount Rushmore of Scariest Wrestlers! But as psychotic, blood-thirsty, and stark-raving mad as these wrestlers were, our guests this week are anything but:
If Nate and Eric didn't already scare you out of your pants, these guests will. Tuuuuuuune iiiinnnnnn.... if you dare!!!!!!!!!!! Muahahahahahaha!!!! ** SHOW NOTES: "Brody" by Barbara Goodish: https://amzn.to/3LCLy1h "Blood and Fire" by Brian R. Solomon: https://amzn.to/4nz8z2F "Irresistible Force" by Brian R. Solomon: https://amzn.to/43MT5km "Wrestling Rings, Blackboards, and Movie Sets" by Evan Ginzburg: https://amzn.to/3LemZI0 Tony Richards' Substack - "Pro Wrestling Time Tunnel" - https://tonyrichards4.substack.com/ Pro Wrestling Time Tunnel on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TonyRichards | |||
| 054 The Mount Rushmore of Road Trip Buddies | 24 Oct 2025 | 01:50:17 | |
Before first-class flights, before tour buses, and before chartered planes, professional wrestlers spent hours and hours traveling miles and miles on the road. What would it have been like to be a passenger in those cars? Listening to guys rebook the territory... passing them cans of beer... getting pulled over and the boys being recognized by the cops who suddenly mark out and want to get pictures with their favorite wrestlers... who would make the best road trip buddies in pro wrestling? Nate and Eric discuss, so let us take the wheel while you listen in! Order "Irresistible Force: The Life and Times of Gorilla Monsoon" by Brian R. Solomon: https://amzn.to/3WT8fAI ** SHOW NOTES AND SPOILERS Steve Austin Shoots on Dallas Page - YouTube The Very Best Of Bobby The Brain Heeenan Wrestling Commentary Gold #WWF #WCW Santino Marella & Vladimir Kozlov host a tea party with Sheamus in England: Raw, Nov. 8, 2010 Santino Marella On Mispronouncing Names, Stone Cold, The Cobra, Comedy Wrestling, TNA Sting joins the WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2016: Raw, January 11, 2016 Jim Cornette at Dairy Queen: https://youtu.be/qVZAa1kxngw?si=Hk_voOzuFN4DIChg&t=80 Cornette and Percy Pringle 1: https://youtu.be/o7Cg1N4AMFw?si=V8FYlpHwyAtbPn9b&t=223 Cornette and Percy Pringle 2: https://youtu.be/kzMe_6UUod8?si=2-4iGKZn5mtULP0S&t=267 JBL tells road stories about him and Ron Simmons: https://youtu.be/R__wy1Z2IF0?si=htCK_CELlBhZj9bu&t=30 | |||
| Brian R. Solomon Talks "Irresistible Force," Gorilla Monsoon | 09 Oct 2025 | 00:22:02 | |
In this episode of The Mount Rushmore of Wrestling, Eric and Nate welcome author and wrestling historian Brian R. Solomon—former WWF Magazine and WWE.com writer, current journalist, and host of Shut Up and Wrestle. Brian joins the show to discuss his new book, Irresistible Force: The Life and Times of Gorilla Monsoon, a definitive look at one of wrestling’s most respected figures inside and outside the ring. From Gorilla’s unexpected path from the squared circle to the commentary booth, to the stunning revelation that he was once earmarked to take over the WWF from Vince McMahon Sr., Brian shares his deep research, interviews, and personal insights into what made Gorilla Monsoon both a giant in stature and a giant in legacy. The conversation explores:
Brian also opens up about what didn’t make the book—including Gorilla’s old-school values and a telling story from a party at Hulk Hogan’s house. Listen for: Brian's Mount Rushmore of wrestling play-by-play announcers, the secret side of Gorilla Monsoon, and the enduring art of telling wrestling’s greatest stories. Get Irresistible Force: The Life and Times of Gorilla Monsoon on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4oeNhIs Follow Brian R. Solomon:
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| 053 The Mount Rushmore of Play-by-Play Announcers | 25 Sep 2025 | 01:32:40 | |
Pro wrestling’s play-by-play announcers have shaped how we remember the biggest matches and wildest moments, turning our absurd fascination into lasting memories. From thunderous calls to smooth credibility to down-home honesty, these voices were the soundtrack of wrestling history. On this episode of The Mount Rushmore of Wrestling, Eric and Nate ask: Who belongs on the ultimate monument of play-by-play announcers? Which voices defined eras, elevated stars, and connected fans to the action like no one else? And which near-misses and honorable mentions sparked the fiercest debate? Listen in! ** SHOW NOTES AND SPOILERS ** Jim Ross' Greatest Calls: "Shaking Hands With Satan Himself!" Jim Ross Being A National Treasure For 25 Minutes Straight Gorilla Monsoon & Bobby Heenan: Laughing Compilation Lance Russell Tribute 1926-2017 Gordon Solie: WWE Hall of Fame Video Package [Class of 2008] Ric Flair on Solie: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZOz2Q9f8r1w Kevin Sullivan on Solie: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1FsrGELy9AM Best of Lance Russell Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KTS3JDUwzD0&list=PLrceIZkpzcEtdd-LRQj_NyQV_dGG0a4G5 Jim Cornette and Jerry Lawler: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gWfwiiQ7eNw Tons of Joey Styles links: Shane Douglas: https://youtu.be/6cyPCx80e98?si=7tEyXIo9u-IaW5wf&t=87 to 4:55, kinda long RVD: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/qZPhkPeXm5U Stevie Richards: https://youtu.be/lKsXHPJI1E4?si=RVN2QEoN-gXa6QGe&t=11 Jim Ross: https://youtu.be/i-yTV81EfOM?si=jlkxVjM5S57G91DR&t=103 to 2:12 "One Night Stand" intro: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=deqJCOsqjqU | |||
| 052 The Mount Rushmore of Underutilized Wrestlers | 13 Sep 2025 | 02:18:19 | |
IMPORTANT NOTE: In this episode, I (Eric) was struggling to think of another way of saying a wrestler was being held down in terms of booking, and, like an idiot, I made a “put a knee on his neck” reference. I swear there was something else on my mind, but I couldn’t think of it, like a body part on another body part. And in my haste and confusion, I said it again. And as I was saying it, I felt 10 times stupider. I really do apologize for making that reference. I think the real-life scenario was absolutely awful, and I’m dumb for using it as an analogy for anything, let alone on this show. Isn't it frustrating to see a pro wrestler on your screen who you know has the whole package: they can wrestle, they can talk, they don't look like a schlub, and they clearly want to grab that brass ring... but the front office keeps yoinking it away. When the gap between ability and booking is too hard to overcome, you've got an underutilized wrestler, and that's what Nate and Eric discuss in this episode. Who are the shoulda woulda couldas of pro wrestling--the ones who were around but not used as well or as much as they should have been? Who had more than just potential but *proof* that they could go, but they weren't allowed? Listen in and find out! ** SHOW NOTES AND SPOILERS Larry Zbyszko on Lord Steven Regal in WCW Arn Anderson On Why William Regal Ranks In His Top Ten The perfect Mr. Perfect Tribute Video Jim Cornette on If The Great Muta Could Have Been A Babyface World Champion | |||
| 051 The Mount Rushmore of Our Personal Interactions | 05 Sep 2025 | 01:44:22 | |
When you're a huge, dorky, nerdy wrestling fan like Nate and Eric, you often end up where the wrestlers are. In this episode, the guys remember their favorite interactions with professional wrestlers over the years. At the arenas, conventions, halls of fame, airports, parking lots... even over the phone? Listen in for some incredible, ridiculous brushes with pro wrestling greatness. ALSO: "The Tecmo Bowl" documentary lawsuit has been dropped, and the trailer is back up and live on YouTube! Watch Nate superkick a steel chair into Eric's face, among other Tecmo footage, here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wAaVt4Waceo SHOW NOTES: Bruiser Brody vs Bulldog Bob Brown Feud. 1986 IPW - Woodward Academy Highlights - Nov 15, 2014 Eric's "artistic success and financial failure" only show he's ever promoted: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S-HMdFFqQAw&list=PLidcTPhAYcQuyKTEyW4yQZMp_fXQwu8c3&pp=gAQB | |||
| The Mount Rushmore of Our Summer Vacations | 29 Aug 2025 | 01:04:16 | |
We're back! We're here, we're finally not too tired to record, and we're chatting about what we did during our eight-or-so-week hiatus this summer. What kept Nate and Eric busy? Who reached out wondering if we were OK? And what's coming in the near (and a little farther out) future with the boys and the show? Stay tuned! ** SHOW NOTES Public Access Wrestling, our basement wrestling league from high school: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CCqAUynM2is "The Tecmo Bowl" documentary IMDB listing: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt15366926/?ref_=fn_all_ttl_1 Eric's silly commercial for his copywriting book: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/ericdnelsonin_what-did-i-do-oh-yeah-i-wrote-a-book-activity-7357026928911900672-K6iH?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAAPx49cBslTS-ggU2qoPdbIifARrs6eZFGY Tragos/Thesz Hall of Fame: https://www.facebook.com/GeorgeTragosLouTheszProWrestlingHallOfFame/ | |||
| 050 The Mount Rushmore of Pyro | 03 Jul 2025 | 01:20:55 | |
Get ready for a blazing conversation as this week's episode sparks an explosive debate: Who belongs on the Mount Rushmore of Pyro in pro wrestling? From fireballs to fireworks, we’re breaking down the entrances that lit up arenas—and left lasting impressions. We’re talking fiery finishes, iconic eruptions, and the flames that fueled larger-than-life characters. Whether you're into hellfire, spark curtains, or smoke-breathing spectacles, this one brings the heat. Tune in for bold picks, hot takes, and maybe a few sick burns along the way. SHOW NOTES AND SPOILERS Baptista: https://youtu.be/fWaCzY5xf8A?si=aWA3O7twdB_jm33k&t=242 A fan sneaks backstage: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EeTMkRKqmkw Duane Gill "Gillberg" entrance on RAW 1/11/1999 - YouTube That's gotta be... that's gotta be KANE! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ASmdxXaOzd4 Kane New entrance 2012 - YouTube Kane's Pyro Scared Coach Out Of His Chair YouTube The Brood Entrance Was DANGEROUS Gangrel Explains The Brood’s EPIC Entrance Bill Goldberg's Greatest entrance - YouTube Batista's Epic Entrance on RAW (Oct. 6, 2008) - YouTube Edge returns at the Royal Rumble 2020: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zrLt2KGRMPs Edge uses all the pyro: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6GFVJHCF0UQ Edge's WrestleMania 24 entrance: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRDZCg69lj8 Booker T's best entrance (of thousands): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FuSMA0fxVNw | |||
| 049 The Mount Rushmore of the King of the Ring | 27 Jun 2025 | 01:36:49 | |
Not all heroes wear capes, not all kings wear crowns—and in pro wrestling, some don’t even want them. This week, Eric and Nate climb the royal mountain to name their Mount Rushmore of the King of the Ring. Who used the tournament to launch a legendary career? Who embraced the gimmick and ruled with an iron fist? And who just beat a few guys and vanished into the midcard wilderness? We’re breaking down which winners truly wore the crown—and which ones just kept the cape warm. We’re talking tournament performances, character transformations, long-term booking impact, and that promo that changed wrestling forever. All hail the kings—just maybe not Mabel. (R.I.P.) Got your own picks? Hit us up and let us know who you’d crown. ** SHOW NOTES AND SPOILERS
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| 048 The Mount Rushmore of Wrestling Father Figures | 19 Jun 2025 | 00:43:57 | |
In honor of Father's Day, Nate Merz takes the reins and dedicates an episode to the hardest working guys in the profession, Wrestling Father Figures. Who gave their "kids" the best opportunities? The most daddy issues? And whose legacy still lives on even after a ladder match for custody of a child and the identity of the real father is still up in the air? Forget Maury Povich, because Nate Merz is about to show you who's your daddy--give it a listen! SHOW NOTES Cricket Sounds - Crickets Chirping at Night - Nature Sounds for Sleep & Relaxation - 11 Hours “IM YOUR PAPI”! #wwe #reymysterio #eddieguerrero #youtubeshorts #dominikmysterio #smackdown Dominik Mysterio wishes he was Eddie Guerrero's son Is Eddie Guerrero Dominik Mysterio’s Real Father? Kane & Paul Bearer Take A DNA Test Is He The Biological Father Of Kane? 5/18/98 Mr.McMahon’s Illegitimate Son Is Revealed (Shocking) RAW Sep 10,2007 The day Finlay tried to sell Hornswoggle in the Philippines. Torrie Wilson On The Al Wilson Storyline Ladies and gentlemen: Al Wilson!!! (AKA "LOOK AT AL! LOOK AT DAWN!") | |||
| 047 The Mount Rushmore of Amateurs Who Turned Pro | 12 Jun 2025 | 01:41:10 | |
Some of the most accomplished amateur wrestlers of all time never step into the pro wrestling ring. Some do, and it's not pretty. Some of the highest achieving professional wrestlers would be tied into knots by a state high school amateur champ. So when a successful amateur wrestler transitions to pro wrestling and finds success there, too, it's special. Nate and Eric discuss the best of those success stories: Whose move to the pros seemed seamless? Whose amateur stardom grew tenfold through pro wrestling? Who supplemented medals and trophies with championship belts and the greenbacks, the moolah, the money that comes with them? And check this out: None other than Mr. Gerald Brisco joins the guys to discuss what he looks for while scouting amateurs that will benefit them in the pros, why he feels he and his brother, Jack, did so well in the squared circle, and he even gives his Mount Rushmore of Amateurs Who Turned Pro! While Mr. Brisco is on the line, he gives his top four reasons for attending the George Tragos/Lou Thesz Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame in Waterloo, Iowa, and he shares some fun stories and episodes from his podcast, "Stories With Brisco and Bradshaw." You won't find many more educated opinions on the topic than Mr. Gerald Brisco himself! National Wrestling Hall of Fame in Waterloo: https://nwhof.org/national-wrestling-hall-of-fame-dan-gable-museum/pro_wrestling/awards/George_Tragos_and_Lou_Thesz_Professional_Wrestling_Inductee George Tragos/Lou Thesz Pro Wrestling Hall of Fame: https://www.facebook.com/GeorgeTragosLouTheszProWrestlingHallOfFame Stories With Brisco and Bradshaw (on Apple Podcasts): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/stories-with-brisco-and-bradshaw/id1557108431 LINKS AND SPOILERS: Bruce Prichard on Jack Brisco: https://youtu.be/eQd9xNkV1q4?si=syj-JVRcWshY0hAv&t=55 Jim Ross on Jack Brisco: https://youtu.be/Bd10E2biZsc?si=84GEShu_956t90Ee&t=170 Dr. Mike Lano on Jack Brisco: https://youtu.be/vkAhXGFVPQw?si=hVCPK_bfU_Ipyz0C&t=509 Dave Meltzer's Jack Brisco obituary: https://www.f4wonline.com/news/other-wrestling/dave-meltzer-life-and-times-jack-brisco-320661/ Kurt Angle on pro wrestling clicking: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/cf3RfwAjjSg Kurt Angle on giving AND taking in the ring: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/JYqwCvNsXkA Undertaker on Kurt Angle: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/zzoYJQz_BhQ Stone Cold Steve Austin on Kurt Angle: https://youtu.be/cDsqSHq4oUg?si=u8QgZnSOBA-jgtaZ&t=4543 Kurt Angle Gets Mad At The Stone Cold Steve Austin What Chant Stop It Im A Olympic Gold Medalist Paul Heyman presents a Brock Lesnar career retrospective: Raw, Feb. 18, 2019 | |||
| 046 The Mount Rushmore of Wrestling Academics | 29 May 2025 | 01:00:17 | |
It's the end of the school year! Besides burgers and bonfires, graduation parties and gift cards, there's no better way to celebrate than debating and deciding the Mount Rushmore of Wrestling Academics! Which teachers, professors, doctors, and geniuses made the cut? And why? Why on Earth did wrestling promoters keep putting these "go away heat" characters on serviceable wrestlers and let their careers fester and tank? Or were they really smarter than we all thought, because we're still talking about them today? Get smart and find out! | |||
| Portland Wrestling: 100 Years of Excellence with Matthew Merz | 22 May 2025 | 00:44:15 | |
You read that right: There's another Merz out there who loves professional wrestling! Matthew Merz (no relation) is a historian in the Portland wrestling scene, and he stopped by to talk to Nate Merz (still no relation) and Eric Nelson (never was a relation, as far as we know, dun dun DUNNNN) about his upcoming documentary, "Portland Wrestling: 100 Years of Excellence." They chat about what's really the century-plus history of wrestling in that area, the names that came through the territory, and what legacy the group left behind (and the chances of a resurrection?). Plus, Matthew, who knows more about the area than Nate and Eric combined, offers his Mount Rushmore of Portland Wrestling, both a more modern collection and a historical take. This wraps up the boys' dive into the Pacific Northwest, but follow what Matthew is up to at https://www.facebook.com/PortlandWrestling and https://www.youtube.com/@RingOfFireProWrestling | |||
| 045 The Mount Rushmore of Sabu | 15 May 2025 | 00:47:28 | |
Folks, it's a bummer when you hear that a wrestler you loved in your formative years (or your rebellious, blood 'n' guts-lovin' years) has passed away, and that was the feeling when we heard that Sabu--the suicidal, homicidal, genocidal, death-defying sultan of hardcore--died on May 11, 2025, at the too-young age of 60. Nate and Eric are here to celebrate the scars, the blood, the flips, the violence, and the passion of Sabu. Not one to be messed with, Sabu did things on his own terms, both in and out of the ring, all the way to the end. Here are the matches that brought the boys plenty of joy--masochists, maybe, but it's what Sabu came to do: kick ass, decimate his own body, and entertain us with his love for the business. #RIPSabu SHOW NOTES AND LINKS Sabu & The Sheik vs. Atsushi Onita & Tarzan Goto (FMW): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-vi5V6pANJw Post-match promos - Sabu vs. Cactus Jack (ECW Hostile City Showdown 1994): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ZpcgnbUR1I Rob Van Dam & Sabu vs. Hayabusa vs. Jinsei Shinzaki (ECW Heat Wave 1998): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eAhspD5QG5k&pp=ygUYc2FidSBydmQgamluc2VpIGhheWFidXNh Sabu vs. 2 Cold Scorpio (ECW Cyberslam 1996): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8xo390-n6JQ&pp=ygUVc2FidSB0b28gY29sZCBzY29ycGlv Sabu vs. Terry Funk (ECW Born to Be Wired): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qu5sixZ0ApQ Raven on Sabu: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dTDVilFVeEI For fun... Sabu vs. Scott Taylor, WWF dark match: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5RQLNzf3Q2U More fun... Sabu vs. Mr. JL (Jerry Lynn) (WCW Halloween Havoc 1995): https://www.dailymotion.com/video/xvknux | |||
| 044 The Mount Rushmore of Portland Wrestling | 09 May 2025 | 01:44:16 | |
(Pardon the couple of "warts and all" moments in the audio--they aren't too bad!) Inspired by the recent "Dark Side of the Ring" episode on Billy Jack Haynes, Nate and Eric dug into the history of Pacific Northwest Wrestling to determine the Mount Rushmore of Portland Wrestling. This might be the most underrated territory in pro wrestling history, with a litany--a SLEW, if you will--of stars past and present making their way through the area, all showing off their incredible wrestling, promo, and ticket-selling talent. That's not possible without the vision of highly respected promoter Don Owen, so who leveraged that spotlight the best? Who had the longevity, the impact, the best matches, the hottest feuds, and drew the most money in the Portland territory? Listen in and find out! ** SHOW NOTES AND SPOILERS BELOW ** George Schire talks about Portland promoter Don Owen Savage: PBS documentary Re: '70s Portland Wrestling (Part 1) Dutch Savage: 16 Time Portland Wrestling Champ Playboy Buddy Rose Heel Turn Portland Wrestling 7/14/84 | |||
| A Portland Wrestling Prelude | 08 May 2025 | 00:05:04 | |
Hey folks, Nate is on assignment, and Eric can't stay up until 1 a.m. editing audio for you tractor-based 5-in-the-morning listeners (who we greatly appreciate), so here's a brief rationale on why discussing the Mount Rushmore of Portland Wrestling is worth your time later this week. Inspired by the recent "Dark Side of the Ring" episode on Billy Jack Haynes ("It's Billy Jerk Haynes." "For the record, it is Billy Jack Haynes."), Nate and Eric plan their deep dive into the Portland territory and have some deep cuts to share with you... as soon as Eric gets a good night (fans)'s sleep and Nate returns from his trip to Botswana to find the Apocalypse. | |||
| 043 The Mount Rushmore of Memphis Wrestling | 01 May 2025 | 01:58:17 | |
From the blood-soaked Mondays at the Mid-South Coliseum to the slap heard ’round the world on Letterman, Memphis wrestling isn’t just a territory—it’s a mythos. This week, Eric and Nate dive deep into the smoky arenas and wild promos of one of the most influential regions in wrestling history as they ask: Who belongs on the Mount Rushmore of Memphis Wrestling? Who were the kings? The wild cards? The greatest faces, heels, and foils? Along the way, we explore why Memphis became the heartbeat of Southern wrestling, the real-life impact of Southern segregation, the chaos of a Hollywood invasion, and how Memphis shaped—and sometimes scarred—future legends like Hulk Hogan, Randy Savage, The Rock, and Kurt Angle. To earn a place on this mountain, we’re judging each candidate by their:
We also dig into:
Whether you're a lifelong fan or new to the magic of Memphis, this episode is a love letter to one of wrestling's most storied chapters. Rate, review, and tell us your picks for the Mount Rushmore of Memphis Wrestling. Just be warned: if you leave out the wrong King, we’re sending Jimmy Hart after you with a megaphone. ** SHOW NOTES INCLUDING SPOILERS ** Classic Memphis Lawler Turns Heel Interview Wrestling 1979 Jerry Lawler vs Ric Flair (NWA Heavyweight Title Match) Part 2 - The Hustle Jerry Lawler Slaps Andy Kaufman | Letterman - YouTube Jim Cornette, Jerry Lawler discuss Lance Russell's legacy Funny! Jimmy Hart Shoots Straight with Jimmy Kent, Gets Nailed (1981) Memphis Wrestling | |||
| 042 The Mount Rushmore of Best First Years | 24 Apr 2025 | 01:53:36 | |
Can you believe it? This week marks the show's one-year anniversary! Nate and Eric are too stubborn to quit, so to celebrate, the guys debate and decide the Mount Rushmore of Best First Years. Which future pro wrestling superstars were rocketed off the launch pad but truly earned their stripes over their first 12 months? Through their in-ring skills, character development, promo ability (or, in some cases, ability to work around their lack of promo ability), charisma, and animal magnetism, who made the biggest impacts on the sport in their first years? Put on your party hats, listen in, and find out! *** SPOILERS AND SHOW NOTES BELOW... *** Something to check out for funsies: https://prowrestling.fandom.com/wiki/PWI_Rookie_of_the_Year Something else to check out for funsies: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Wrestling_Observer_Newsletter_awards#Rookie_of_the_Year The Next Big Thing debuts: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xPdETJuYYBE FULL MATCH - Kurt Angle makes his WWE debut: Survivor Series 1999 - YouTube Kurt Angle | Best Moments - YouTube Kurt Angle talks about memorial day - YouTube Goldberg makes his WCW debut: WCW Monday Nitro, Sept. 22, 1997 Goldberg vs. Hollywood Hogan - WCW Championship Match: Nitro, July 6, 1998 - YouTube FULL SEGMENT - The Rock and Ronda Rousey confront The Authority: WrestleMania 31 (WWE Network) Ronda Rousey makes her big WWE entrance at the Royal Rumble | ESPN - YouTube | |||
| 041 The Mount Rushmore of WrestleMania Opening Matches | 19 Apr 2025 | 01:43:15 | |
If fast-forwarding through every WrestleMania on Peacock to get to the main event isn't your cup of tea, Nate and Eric have a less daunting task this week: We debate the Mount Rushmore of WrestleMania Opening Matches! Which ones set the tone for the rest of the night? Which ones (almost) stole the show? Which ones set their winners up for future superstar success? And at what point did the opening match go from a beacon of mediocrity to a critical kickoff for a major event? Listen in and see if you agree! ** Bret Hart vs. Owen Hart (WrestleMania X): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rsY_MaBuzeY Rey Mysterio vs. Eddie Guerrero (WrestleMania 21): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g7TPGbW8v1s Daniel Bryan vs. Triple H (WrestleMania XXX): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dq3EJB4Nc1g Randy Orton RKOs everyone: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JW4e8fOqm0M Edge spears everyone: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=INejT3Z8eTw Jeff Hardy takes crazy to new heights with a leg drop off the top of a ladder: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kFQSafpWDGE Bret Hart vs Owen Hart Was Incredible Ross Hart on brothers Bret vs Owen at WrestleMania X AJ Styles sounds off on Shane McMahon: SmackDown LIVE, March 14, 2017 | |||
| Eric's Mount Rushmore of Bob Uecker at WrestleMania | 17 Apr 2025 | 00:09:26 | |
With Nate on assignment, Eric takes over as only he can: By reviewing the greatest moments of WWE Hall of Famer and star of WrestleMania III and IV, Mr. Baseball himself, Bob Uecker! The bumbling ball player turned beloved actor and funnyman had some absolute classic moments at two canonical WrestleManias, and Eric shares his faves in this quick episode. Stay tuned for a full episode with Eric and Nate later this week! | |||
| 040 The Mount Rushmore of WrestleMania Main Events | 10 Apr 2025 | 02:27:13 | |
Heads up: This one's a beast that you might want to spend the weekend with :) Sorta like Eric and Nate in high school! We're deep in the heart of WrestleMania season! And while this year's WWE WrestleMania 41 is sure to create some moments and memories, the show has a 40-year history, where some of the biggest names in pro wrestling and entertainment have led the charge, headlined the card, and main-evented the show. So now, Nate and Eric debate: Throughout all those years, which matches make it onto the Mount Rushmore of WrestleMania Main Events? The most star power, best angles, the highest quality matches, the biggest impact, the highest significance--including in pro wrestling and pop culture... the guys discuss it all. Tune in and listen! ** Hulk Hogan vs. Andre the Giant (WrestleMania III): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rz8q5ZjboXY Stone Cold Steve Austin vs. Shawn Michaels (WrestleMania XIV): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TTArBJAVZog Stone Cold Steve Austin vs. The Rock (WrestleMania X-Seven - Highlights): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kr164KGbBGA Undertaker vs. Shawn Michaels - Streak vs. Career (WrestleMania XXVI): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lNBCF7AKJGA Roman Reigns vs. Cody Rhodes (WrestleMania XL Night Two - Highlights): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i7NcPAnnxDk Jack Tunney presents Hogan with trophy... (WWF 1987) - YouTube Special Piper's Pit w/Andre the Giant, Hulk Hogan Interrupts - Superstars 1/24/87 - YouTube Hulk Hogan vs. Andre The Giant WrestleMania III WWE' Official Clip | Andre The Giant | HBO - YouTube Kevin Nash describes the moment he knew WWE would defeat WCW: Broken Skull Sessions sneak peek Tyson and Austin brawl on Raw: WWE Raw - YouTube Promo Shawn Michaels career Vs Undertaker streak at Wrestlemania 26 The Undertaker agrees to face HBK at WrestleMania Daniel Bryan vs. Sheamus - World Heavyweight Championship Match: WrestleMania XXVIII FULL SEGMENT: Daniel Bryan leads Occupy Raw: Raw, March 10, 2014 Daniel Bryan wins the WWE World Heavyweight Championship: WrestleMania 30 Eric's ridiculous spreadsheet: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1O6qOQGOThju_45eVwKyjEBBuX2z0aC3TE5aswuSxB1c/edit?usp=sharing Monday Night Wars TV Ratings: https://prowrestling.fandom.com/wiki/Monday_Night_Wars_Ratings | |||
| 039 The Mount Rushmore of Ladder Matches | 03 Apr 2025 | 02:07:08 | |
As Nate and Eric try to climb the ladder of podcast greatness, the guys debate which to put on the Mount Rushmore of Ladder Matches. And why? The quality of the matches? The quality of the angle going into it? The impact and the legacy coming out of it? The nostalgia? The chaos? The innovation? Yes! Your next step: Listen to this episode! Edge & Christian vs. The Hardy Boyz: https://youtu.be/z19pPxAqNok?si=wn943tixWreElYpy The next night on Raw: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gdtium2Ulro Chris Benoit vs. Chris Jericho (Royal Rumble 2001): https://www.dailymotion.com/video/xz78qt Shawn Michaels vs. Chris Jericho (No Mercy 2008): https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x61p421 Wrestlemania 16 Triangle Ladder Match Part 3 FULL MATCH - NXT North American Championship Ladder Match: NXT TakeOver: New Orleans - YouTube FULL MATCH - WWE Tag Team Title Triple Threat Ladder Match: WWE TLC 2015 | |||
| 038 The Mount Rushmore of Interview Segments | 27 Mar 2025 | 02:01:29 | |
WEEEE LOOOOVE YOOOOOU! Nate and Eric debate the show within the show... the "talk" of the town... the greatest interview segments in professional wrestling television history. With the right host and the right guest, big things can happen. Angles. Memories. Iconic moments. Which hosts were the best--could talk a blue streak, could antagonize, and could make moments happen? Which interviews turned into heated encounters that turned into major feuds and key matches on massive cards? And out of all options... is there a GOAT? AND: Did the guys bring guests on this week? You won't believe who shows up to discuss their picks. Listen up and find out! ** The Funeral Parlor: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SIJc1AfRxZo The Brother Love Show - Inspiration: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RP4LTiicka8&t=1312s The Brother Love Show - The Pitch: https://youtu.be/RP4LTiicka8?si=sPLVVg2035mHaujL&t=1825 Rogers’ Corner: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KF_z_1UuVs0 Piper's Pit with Frankie Williams: Championship Wrestling Piper's Pit with Andre the Giant - YouTube Brutus Beefcake on Interviewing Andre the Giant on The Barbershop Booker T appears on "Miz TV": Raw, Sept. 17, 2012 The Miz insults Rey Mysterio on "Miz TV": SmackDown LIVE, Oct. 23, 2018 "Miz TV" presents the first-annual "Mizzies": Raw, July 10, 2017 | |||
| 037 The Mount Rushmore of Enhancement Talent | 20 Mar 2025 | 02:08:09 | |
Since no one can make Nate and Eric look good, the boys spend this week discussing the wrestlers whose job was to make other wrestlers look good: It's the Mount Rushmore of Enhancement Talent! What does it take to make it onto this Mount Rushmore when your role isn't to draw money, win matches, talk people into the building, or in any way steal the spotlight? Not only do Nate and Eric provide their picks and the criteria behind them... they speak to legendary WCW star-maker Bob Cook about his history in this position and what it takes to put someone else over. Find Mr. Cook on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/user/evellegend - and Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/bob.cook.750/ - to know what the Cooker is up to. Vote in Mount Madness 2025! http://tinyurl.com/mountmadness202532 Follow the Mount Madness 2025 Bracket! https://challonge.com/mountmadness2025 ** Dutch Mantel on Bob Cook: https://youtu.be/YYGGMODuQps?si=qXPBtosgDvs76nFs&t=5 Brooklyn Brawler on being a jobber: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R3CH5NJQ8xw Barry Horowitz hates the term "jobber": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sRf2abPUh9s WOW, he hates the term "jobber: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BXAz71zkssk Horowitz wins! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xyt67OuO3jw Bobby Heenan Debuts Brooklyn Brawler Steve Lombardi Brooklyn Brawler's 33-Year WWE Career, The Term "Jobber", The Rock's First Match, Beating Triple H Barry Horowitz upsets a cocky Skip to pick up his first WWE | |||
| Mount Madness! The Mount Rushmore of Mount Rushmores | 13 Mar 2025 | 00:16:58 | |
To some, it's March Madness... to us, it's MOUNT MADNESS! Yes, Nate and I have been doing this show long enough to fill a 64-seed bracket with our choices for the Mount Rushmore of various pro wrestling topics... and now, the choice is up to YOU! Yes, go to https://tinyurl.com/mountmadness2025 and vote for who had the better picks on all of our Mount Rushmore episodes. Eric and Nate will tally the votes and keep you apprised of tournament progress on the next few episodes, as well as at https://challonge.com/mountmadness2025 -- and once we hit the Final Four, we'll have a Mount Rushmore of Mount Rushmores! Where can you vote? https://tinyurl.com/mountmadness2025 Where can you watch the tournament progress? https://challonge.com/mountmadness2025 | |||
| 036 The Mount Rushmore of Heel Turns | 06 Mar 2025 | 01:45:11 | |
Pro wrestling is, at its heart, a drama. A morality play. The battle of good versus evil. But what happens when good TURNS evil?! In light of John Cena kicking Cody Rhodes--and, in the process, all of us--square in the holy frijoles, Nate and Eric discuss the Mount Rushmore of Heel Turns. Who broke our hearts? Who stomped on our vitamins? Who made our wishes um, come not true? Who made it onto "The Daily Show" with Jon Stewart? Who told us where we could stick the enema hose? Who shattered a friendship AND a barbershop window? It would be an act of cowardism not to listen. Plus: The guys are joined by Chris Owens--Andre the Giant historian, memorabilia collector, and associate producer of the HBO documentary "Andre the Giant: Even Bigger Than You Imagined"--to discuss the character and business impact of Andre's heel turn. (Spoiler: It was even bigger than you imagined.) ** John Cena, The Rock Attack Cody Rhodes! | Elimination Chamber 2025 | WWE Highlights | Peacock Hulk Hogan forms The nWo with Scott Hall and Kevin Nash: WCW Bash at the Beach 1996 Hulk Hogan s Hulkamania Workout Set List This! - Legends of the Fall No. 2: HBK goes solo Bret Hart turns Heel - Raw after Wrestlemania 13 & Trashes his American Fans! (Part 1) Hulk Hogan and Andre the Giant's WrestleMania III Contract Signing Hulk Hogan (turns on WCW): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ttsQxI8SwD0 Bret Hart (turns on Steve Austin): https://youtu.be/P9pbp6gnsbc?si=rsNGoND0tqBUYdu1&t=3203 Frustrated isn't the gosh darn word for it... this is horse pucky! https://youtu.be/TrhwQ2zq_ec?si=tKjvqYKcYMVCgHNB John Cena (turns on Cody Rhodes) as told on "The Daily Show": https://youtu.be/OeUZI5RnYGg?si=4Dvr4BrjtmuHpstS&t=307 | |||
| 035 The Mount Rushmore of Should-Be WWE Hall of Famers | 27 Feb 2025 | 02:06:16 | |
WWE superstar...legend...icon...hall of famer. These labels have applied to the likes of Bruno Sammartino, Hulk Hogan, Stone Cold Steve Austin, and the Bushwhackers. But some notable names have been left out of the WWE Hall of Fame. Nate and Eric debate the Mount Rushmore of Should-Be WWE Hall of Famers: Whose careers are undeniably hall of fame worthy? Whose contributions make them invaluable to the legacy of professional wrestling? And who should be carrying Frankie back to the air fryer? Also, the guys are joined by Evan Ginzburg, associate producer for the Oscar-nominated movie "The Wrestler" and author of "Wrestling Rings, Blackboards, and Movie Sets," who makes a case for one conspicuously absent should-be hall of famer. Want to know more? Listen in to find out! ** Evan Ginzburg links: "Wrestling Rings, Blackboards, and Movie Sets" by Evan Ginzburg: https://www.amazon.com/Wrestling-Rings-Blackboards-Movie-Sets/dp/B0DSB64D2V Pro Wrestling Stories: https://prowrestlingstories.com/ Ivan Koloff not being in the WWE Hall of Fame: https://prowrestlingstories.com/pro-wrestling-stories/ivan-koloff-wwe-hall-of-fame/ The night IT happened: https://prowrestlingstories.com/pro-wrestling-stories/bruno-sammartino-ivan-koloff/ ** Show links: Demolition: Lawsuit discussion: https://www.youtube.com/live/hdasqq-CTOw?si=jZwl6xfKRZfCJuY3&t=14 (to 1:57) From Bill Eadie: https://youtu.be/cgjfGHV2heU?si=mxOksPGGPJn4g3lC&t=5 (to 1:09) From Barry Darsow: https://youtu.be/MRcGgT81eHI?si=J9HFVGRdEfHhnamh (to :22) From Demolition at a fan convention: https://youtu.be/UtonUESOFmw?si=yks0K5TBmPqdJqJh&t=136 And that classic theme: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4aS1Xfb6ckE Sid: His entrance into MSG: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lo8iOOU_5Io His title win: https://youtu.be/-znAfRnJ2hw?si=yHezY5k3FdtDqi_6&t=332 Cyndi Lauper: "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun": https://youtu.be/PIb6AZdTr-A?si=fveNnhS0mrUnBClc&t=49 (be number 1.5 billion and one!) The Best Entrance Themes Of Jim Johnston's WWE Career Breaking down D-Generation X’s entrance music: WWE Behind the Theme Electrifying The Rock’s entrance music: WWE Behind the Theme The Real Story Behind D'Lo Brown's Theme Music WWF Sid Justice smashes the Barber Shop Sid’s greatest moments: WWE Top 10, Aug. 29, 2024 | |||
| 034 The Mount Rushmore of Color Commentators | 20 Feb 2025 | 01:45:05 | |
The voices of our childhood... heck, the voices of our adulthood... the voices you'd hear every Saturday, or Sunday, or Monday, or Friday... the voices you'd hear on USA, or TNN, or TBS, or TNT, or your local affiliate after breakfast on Saturday... and the voices who brought the psychology of being a wrestler or a manager or a chicken$#!+. Nate and Eric discuss the greatest color commentators in pro wrestling history. Who was trusted to sit along the top play-by-play guys in the promotion--sometimes even the owner of the company? Whose comedy timing was impeccable? Whose wit could match anyone spontaneously? Whose understanding of pro wrestling psychology could enhance moves in the ring, matches on the card, and storylines on the roster? Who was compatible with anyone you sat them next to and not just do a serviceable job but elevate the role, the team, and the broadcast as a whole? And did Nate and I go 4 for 4 for the first time ever? Listen up and find out! ** The Very Best Of Bobby The Brain Heeenan Wrestling Commentary Gold #WWF #WCW TOP 25 QUOTES BY BOBBY HEENAN (of 51) | A-Z Quotes WWE Retro - Gorilla Monsoon has no comeback from Jesse Ventura at Survivor Series 1989. Jesse The Body Ventura and Gorilla Monsoon being brilliant in WWF commentary WWF | Jim Ross and Jerry Lawler being the Funniest Commentary Duo Alive for 3 Mins | |||
| 033 The Mount Rushmore of Wrestling Love Stories | 13 Feb 2025 | 01:26:14 | |
Awwww, Nate and Eric are here to talk about looooove. Not theirs. No, in honor of Valentine's Day, the guys discuss the greatest love stories ever presented in professional wrestling. Which ones melted our hearts like fondue chocolate? Which ones warmed our cockles like a New York apartment radiator? Which ones helped our adolescent selves grow up faster than scramblevision? Well, you'll just have to crack open a bottle of Andre Extra Dry, put on your favorite terry cloth robe, get into a toasty bubble bath, and listen in! *** Randy Savage and Elizabeth: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b-4SP-ig8bM Diamond Dallas Page and Kimberly: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jz8Cwi5qr6w Beth Phoenix and Santino Marella: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T1ulJIdRTVw Tommy Cairo, The Sandman, Woman, and Peaches: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y5cMd13yljs Mae Young announces her pregnancy with Mark Henry: SmackDown!, Jan. 27, 2000 Mae Young gives birth to a hand: RAW IS WAR, Feb. 28, 2000 Santino Marella talks about Beth Phoenix When Santino Marella TEAMED UP with Beth Phoenix #wwe #wrestling #shorts Beth Phoenix & Santino Marella recall their run as Glamarella: WWE Icons extra The love story of Indi Hartwell and Dexter Lumis: WWE NXT, Sept. 14, 2021 Dexter Lumis SPEAKS as InDex Gets Married [UNEDITED] | WWE NXT 2.0 Highlights 9/14/21 | WWE on USA | |||
| The Mount Rushmore of Valentine Sorts of Things | 06 Feb 2025 | 00:04:21 | |
Nate and Eric took the week off, but that doesn’t mean you should quit…thinking about your loved one! Be inspired by pro wrestling when you’re thinking about Valentine’s Day gifts: flowers, chocolates, diamonds, teddy bears, and more! Listen for a quick list of ideas that’s sure to melt your tag team partner’s heart, and then join us next week for the best of pro wrestling’s love stories! Also…the Love Brothers? Hey, they were once managed by a Fabulous Kangaroo! https://slamwrestling.net/index.php/2011/06/23/newfoundlands-hartford-love-adored-at-home-hated-abroad/amp/ | |||
| 032 The Mount Rushmore of Royal Rumble Performances | 30 Jan 2025 | 01:36:13 | |
We're back with another Royal Rumble-inspired episode: Nate and Eric discuss the greatest performances in Royal Rumble history! Who spent the most time in the Rumble? Who threw out the most people? Who won? Or whose elimination was a "wow" moment in the match? And who left the Royal Rumble better off than when they entered it? Listen up to see what we think of folks like Ric Flair, Bob Backlund, Diesel, Shawn Michaels, Stone Cold Steve Austin, Kane, Chris Benoit. Rey Mysterio, Chris Jericho, Edge, Brock Lesnar, and more! ** Ric Flair discusses the 1992 Royal Rumble with Steve Austin: https://youtu.be/nvL8c5N-JOs?si=4cBQfyS_Ivq4IOrP&t=32 Shawn Michaels takes it all in 1996: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GlBeQshE1R8 Kane takes out everyone from our childhood in 2001: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GqxZZIerJcM Gunther discusses almost winning the Rumble in 2023: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VpkOgKE0IiE | |||
| 031 The Mount Rushmore of Royal Rumble Eliminations | 23 Jan 2025 | 01:48:54 | |
It's January, which means it's Royal Rumble season! (You know, the show that happens in February this year.) With more than 1,000 to choose from, which Royal Rumble eliminations did Nate and Eric include in their Mount Rushmores? Which were most memorable? Which did the best job forwarding a storyline? Which made new stars or cemented the legacies of legends? And who whacked their way in and immediately got whacked out? Well, you'll just have to listen to find out! (Or read the names of the links below, but still listen.) *** 1989: Hulk Hogan eliminates Randy Savage: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6fRCzuQH1mg 1992: Hulk Hogan and Ric Flair Eliminate Sid Justice: https://youtu.be/-XPi2RKYPX0?si=40K7THjDQUNDqu-P&t=3813 1997: Steve Austin Eliminates Bret Hart: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2hAu_k5q63U 2008: John Cena Eliminates Triple H: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jgdefwyWwaQ 1995: Shawn Michaels Eliminates British Bulldog: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fhGKFkKFYDY 2005: Batista and John Cena take a tumble: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SrRba9gn6os 2006: Rey Mysterio Eliminates Randy Orton: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DZQamxy7q2o Rey Mysterio talks to Chris Van Vliet about winning the 2006 Royal Rumble: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3GA6W0IaqXI | |||
| 030 The Mount Rushmore of Debuts | 16 Jan 2025 | 01:41:28 | |
Nate and Eric are back in full force! Well, as full force as you can be on muscle relaxers and five hours of sleep. Nonetheless, it's a new year (relatively speaking, for two guys who took the holidays off from recording), so what better way to start the year than to explore pro wrestling's greatest debuts? From promos to matches, from anticipation to mind-blowing surprises, from slaps heard 'round the world to sit-down splashes that would make you quake, whose debuts did Eric and Nate debate and etch into their Mount Rushmores? Well, you're just gonna have to take a muscle relaxer (not medical advice) and listen! *** "Kane told me!" - https://youtu.be/3i7YjtJfm5w?si=Y2aesdEuBBT3-tfs&t=72 "OH MY GOD! That's gotta be... that's gotta be..." - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4cEgYyvblDc "Welcome to Raw... is... Jericho!" https://youtu.be/DGsBRImD0po?si=JNkknqLFrf5WVy67&t=24 Jericho "wins" the world title: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KqRPbh8uYkY "Rrrrruthless... aggrrrression!" - https://youtu.be/eSJvnAzK174?si=cXxaUyaS7VYf2Bmx&t=33 UPW documentary: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ECB6zHgdCjk "He fell flat on his fookin' arse!" - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fahljd_0xjA KO tells John Cena "NO" - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PZB4bfX_brQ John from West Virginia makes his debut: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q7j38VPhftQ | |||
| Championship True Crime: Lights Out on the Mini-Estrellas | 09 Jan 2025 | 00:14:51 | |
Welcome to a special edition of The Mount Rushmore of Wrestling. On occasion, we’ll present an episode of a series we’re calling Championship True Crime, where we dig into the scandals, the slander, the bar fights, the backstabbing, the decadence, and sometimes even the deaths within the world of professional wrestling. This is Championship True Crime: Lights Out on the Mini-Estrellas. It's June 28, 2009, and two of lucha libre's most celebrated Mini-Estrella wrestlers are celebrating after another successful show. In fifteen hours, both will be dead. Their bodies will be discovered in Room 52 of a cheap hotel near Arena Mexico - victims of what police will call a fatal miscalculation. But to understand how Alberto and Alejandro Pérez Jiménez - known to wrestling fans as La Parkita and Espectrito II - met their end, we need to understand how they lived. SOURCES:
SOUNDS: Beautiful Melancholy Piano by Universfield -- https://freesound.org/s/773656/ -- License: Attribution 4.0 TRE-LOCO2.mp3 by sonipro -- https://freesound.org/s/51633/ -- License: Sampling+ Gavel - 1 strike with room reverb by odditonic -- https://freesound.org/s/187706/ -- License: Attribution 4.0 | |||
| Championship True Crime: The Dark Cloud Over Chief Don Eagle | 02 Jan 2025 | 00:17:41 | |
Welcome to a special edition of The Mount Rushmore of Wrestling. On occasion, we’ll present an episode of a series we’re calling Championship True Crime, where we dig into the scandals, the slander, the vehemence, the violence, the dangers, and sometimes even the deaths within the world of professional wrestling. This edition of Championship True Crime was inspired by one of Nate's horror stories from episode 22 and follows the dark cloud over Chief Don Eagle. | |||
| 029 The Mount Rushmore of NWA/WCW Starrcade | 26 Dec 2024 | 02:15:36 | |
This episode is the grandaddy of them all, and not just because it's two-hours-plus: Nate and Eric discuss the very, very best of the NWA and WCW Starrcade! And it's very, very easy to do, because there were four, maybe five, decent Starrcades. The guys also discuss the stinkers and the reasons why (not to spoil anything, but the reasons rhyme with "Shmaul Jones" and "Gimme Valiant.") Listen and find out which four of WCW's biggest show of the year didn't suck! | |||
| 028 The Mount Rushmore of WCW Homegrown Talent | 19 Dec 2024 | 01:34:51 | |
WCW often gets a bad rap--OK, a completely deserving rap--for taking advantage of the popularity of wrestlers from other companies and not creating its own superstars from scratch. But wait! What if there *were* some WCW homegrown talent? And what if Nate and Eric discuss that very topic and decide who should go on its Mount Rushmore? Looks like you came to the right podcast, buddy! Join the frivolity! Sting Calls Out Ric Flair 1988 Sting's Squadron vs. The Dangerous Alliance - WarGames Match: WCW WrestleWar 1992 (WWE Network) New WCW Champion Lex Luger - Promo [1991-07-21] - YouTube DDP disguised as La Parka gets the Drop on Macho Man Randy Savage! 1997 (WCW) Diamond Dallas Page rejects the New World Order's invitation: Nitro, January 13, 1997 Bill Goldberg's Greatest entrance - YouTube | |||
| 027 The Mount Rushmore of World TV Champions | 12 Dec 2024 | 01:31:19 | |
Don't touch that dial, folks--Eric and Nate debate the greatest NWA and WCW World Television Champions of all time! Who was worthy of your TV time and attention? Who made the most of the psychology behind the rules of TV title matches? Who elevated the status of the belt above "just the third-rate singles title" in the company to a must-see championship? Tune in and find out! ARN ANDERSON Stealing the belt from poor old Dusty Rhodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=llOlMQiot2I Beating the Great Muta: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nHtNaUcwDok Talking about being the TV Champ: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ck_KlsLaxVk Bob Caudle talks to the champ: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XnE4oBNffhQ TULLY BLANCHARD The $10,000 Challenge: https://youtu.be/EZ9JHbvNmyA?si=o7DZ764r_OUAS-BW&t=116 "There goes the World Television Champion": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R9X1OlahYMY LORD STEVEN REGAL He wants his bloody belt back from Ultimo Dragon, sunshine: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TSGsmdP3VPY He's just beside himself! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XD5mLwS48Ik&t=59s STUNNING STEVE AUSTIN Lady Blossom is more beautiful than Bobby Eaton: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xiA-XU1D0S0 Paul E. doesn't want to go in the cage above the ring: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_6PTNOfJA0g BOOKER T Booker T mercifully takes the TV Title off Disco Inferno: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=buwNyl91cN0 | |||
| 026 The Mount Rushmore of United States Champions | 05 Dec 2024 | 01:33:35 | |
From sea to shining sea, Nate and Eric are here to discuss the greatest NWA and WCW United States Champions of all time. Who created the template for holding the title that made a wrestler the de facto number-one contender to the World Heavyweight Title? Whose reigns were the most memorable? The most impactful? Did the best job of holding up the middle of the top tier and the top of the middle tier on their capable shoulders? It's only right that the Mount Rushmore of Wrestling podcast, with Americana running through our loins, etches the official Mount Rushmore of United States Champions--check it out. Ric Flair going nuts on Ricky Steamboat: https://youtu.be/kYPeLnYeMXE?si=PPJJsCTIeviF5OBh Flair is still ready to mix it up with Steamboat: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IkNzg7VtueU Flair is not only mixing it up with Steamboat, but he's calling out the fat chicks in the front row: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iQnILt2o3y4 Lex Luger has everything a US Champ needs--especially intelligence: https://youtu.be/mOlpWKmGhXA?si=1IUlQ-xbM3Xl06pV Lex Luger reacts to his greatest moments: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FsxQAFJYI6g Nikita Koloff is disgusted by Magnum TA's mom: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cRHhQfnzKaw Nikita unifies the US and National titles: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GboYXkpkOyc Rick Rude and the Dangerous Alliance prove nice guys finish last: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wCo6x6Ln-i0 Rude and Madusa, um, cash in a favor: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B5o7vIKhDGc Diamond Dallas Page becomes the hero we all need: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zgp4mGl2VEg | |||
| 025 The Mount Rushmore of Survivor Series Teams | 30 Nov 2024 | 01:47:47 | |
It's the SUR-VIIIIII-VOR SER-IEEEEEES! Yep, Nate and Eric love this time of year. Turkey, stuffing, Nater Tot Casserole, and the nostalgia of the elimination matches from the Thanksgiving Day/Eve/-ish Spectacular known as the Survivor Series. The guys don't agree about much--in fact, they argue more than usual--so make sure you tune in and see which teams you agree with, which ones you scoff at, and think about who you'd include instead. Rude's Brood: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5V5lTmwcJrw Rude's Brood but a little Rougeau-ier: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aSKqSyrMopA Team Andre Interview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jP9IMIM7HkU Team WWF vs. Team Alliance Promo: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wy88uW_goLA Team D-Xtreme: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sxDhe6nXJLM | |||
| The Mount Rushmore of Being Thankful For YOU | 28 Nov 2024 | 00:07:15 | |
Folks, a full new episode of The Mount Rushmore of Wrestling is coming Saturday! Until then, do like Nate and Eric: Enjoy your Thanksgiving, be safe, be good, and stay tuned! | |||
| 024 The Mount Rushmore of WarGames | 21 Nov 2024 | 02:07:03 | |
It's time for WARGAMES! Nate and Eric debate the best of this revolutionary match from the brain of Dusty Rhodes--from the rugged JCP days of 1987 to the return 30 years later in NXT to the elevation to the main WWE roster as we know it today. Who shed blood? Who broke their neck? Who won the coin toss? (Spoiler: It's almost always the heels.) Who submitted to an armbar? And which matches made the violent, chaotic, double-ring, double-cage WarGames a permanent fixture in our memories--and on our Mount Rushmore? Listen up and find out! Videos from the show: Dusty Rhodes creates WarGames: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L4nAkhh6e9k Jim Crockett, Jr. describes WarGames: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2hSUYJT4P4c Ominous WarGames promo: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7PbwsH256DM Classic clips from the 1992 WarGames, including Sting chasing Madusa off the top of the cage: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PaF_H4dEPz8 The full 2019 men's WarGames match from NXT: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=idclcU9Y0wI The full 2021 men's Team 2.0 vs. Team Black and Gold WarGames match from NXT: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1FrHVqtx4L0 | |||
| 023 The Mount Rushmore of Horror Stories, Part 2 | 14 Nov 2024 | 01:08:45 | |
Yikes! It's part two of the chronicling of the greatest pro wrestling horror stories. Who died? Who almost died? Who got hurt a little? (Hint: It was Nate. And it was more than a little.) On the heels of what Nate thinks was our best episode, here's the second half of our Mount Rushmore of (yikes!) Horror Stories! *** Vader, Sid, and Too Cold Scorpio shoot on the hotel incident: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qsLOOVdxrBI Stories of Owen Hart's fall from people who were there: Teddy Long: https://youtu.be/IpkKjCKB1B0?si=kilQHvrcgPlKwISi&t=7 Godfather: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ghDLWKeLwT8 (to 1:18) Jimmy Korderas: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qkKDKOPUK4Q (to just past 4:00) | |||
| 022 The Mount Rushmore of Horror Stories, Part 1 | 07 Nov 2024 | 01:19:30 | |
If you're looking for feel-good professional wrestling memories from Nate and Eric this week... you came to the wrong campfire. The guys share some of the horror stories from the folklore of our favorite sport--things that make us wonder why it's our favorite sport. That might be extreme, but so are these tales of violence, tragedy, and sometimes even worse. Check out part one this week, and stay tuned for part two next week! *** The Mass Transit Incident: https://youtu.be/Bh49sdbyIf0?si=AP8Bge0efK4De_NW&t=93 (to 3:15) https://youtu.be/fl4hrrV4qpk?si=fJOspxz7U-bfYI6f&t=158 (to 4:24) https://youtu.be/fl4hrrV4qpk?si=qYbtwWHvbstS90Bc&t=333 (to 5:52) https://youtu.be/3DySi226mck?si=R4GHhi3wvyatibFw&t=32 (to 1:07) https://youtu.be/3DySi226mck?si=kGQNkvFo82MW4LiH&t=110 (to 2:15) https://youtu.be/Bh49sdbyIf0?si=gqqZOA_WwkoDmbGw&t=218 (to 4:32) https://youtu.be/zszRvTRG2pE?si=xqY_ykNkeqRm1ys4&t=56 (to 1:42) https://youtu.be/zszRvTRG2pE?si=83c9M3hQzJD_CgYx&t=210 (to 4:15) https://youtu.be/DmKlQ7tOxJw?si=JFWqwdELE-mWNazr&t=338 (to 6:37) https://youtu.be/DmKlQ7tOxJw?si=ZZcNMqQAMHvhpHTy&t=446 (to 8:09) https://youtu.be/DmKlQ7tOxJw?si=T8Zr_g7zJrH9RjFT&t=624 (to 10:34) https://youtu.be/zszRvTRG2pE?si=9BAvG1eKfUnjJLQ2&t=369 (to 7:00) Bow Wow Teriyaki: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sz3X2ReBsJk&t=33s (to 2:38) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sz3X2ReBsJk&t=314s (to “it’s so funny”) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gCFaDjpQMNA Gorgeous George vs. Chief Don Eagle: | |||