- Mercedes Moné, Cody Rhodes, and the Real Cost of Betting on Yourself in Wrestling (EP. 74)
MVP explains why he asked for his WWE release instead of signing a five year deal, and what betting on yourself really means after Mercedes Moné rebuilt her career across New Japan, CMLL, and AEW. Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze is the weekly pro wrestling conversation between longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP), a former WWE United States Champion and current AEW star and manager of The Hurt Syndicate, and Houston based rapper, songwriter, and recording artist Dwayne Swayze.
Running on no sleep, MVP thanks the fans and explains why Marking Out is a program, not a booking complaint podcast. He says that by Ric Flair's own words he carried Flair in the Garden, and recalls Vince McMahon telling him to direct and produce his own segments.
The guys revisit Samurai Champloo and Cowboy Bebop, with MVP recalling nights at the top floor bar of the Tokyo Dome Hotel over Japanese whiskey. They own last week's miss on Chris Jericho and Fozzy, then get into Mercedes Moné, Cody Rhodes, MVP's what if on the WWE deal, and his plan to hang up the boots next year after a tag match with Dwayne.
Over Yamazaki 12, MVP breaks down whether the American style is the best way to do wrestling, lucha libre working on the right side, Tanahashi versus John Cena in the eyes of Japanese fans, Rey Mysterio, and Mistico. Then Beat the BZZR returns and MVP wins again, 5 to 2.
Get early access, exclusive behind-the-scenes, and bonus content you won’t find anywhere else. Unlock the real story behind the squared circle—join our Patreon now → https://www.patreon.com/TheMarkingOutShow 🔥
About Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze:
Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze is a weekly pro wrestling podcast where longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP), a former WWE United States Champion and current AEW star and manager of The Hurt Syndicate, and Dwayne Swayze, a Houston based rapper, songwriter, and recording artist, get into the world of professional wrestling. Every week MVP and Dwayne break down wrestling history, promos, match psychology, road stories, and the business behind the spectacle, with the occasional guest joining the conversation.
New episodes every week. Audio drops at midnight ET Monday on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and everywhere podcasts are available, and the full video premieres Monday at 1 PM ET on YouTube. Subscribe for real talk, real stories, and a fresh perspective on professional wrestling.
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyE74 - 46m - Oct 5, 2026 - MVP Fires Back at the 22 Minute Hit Piece About His Show (EP. 73)
MVP holds Haters Court on Marking Out, putting a UK wrestling YouTuber's 22 minute hit piece on trial charge by charge. Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze is the weekly pro wrestling conversation between longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP), a former WWE United States Champion and current AEW star and manager of The Hurt Syndicate, and Houston based rapper, songwriter, and recording artist Dwayne Swayze.
MVP opens the show wrecked after a brutal travel week off Collision in Charleston, West Virginia, driving to Huntington with Bobby Lashley to beat the Chicago storms and catching a 5 AM flight just to make the shoot. Then a quick tour of the speakeasy set and a Japanese whiskey pour before Dwayne calls the room to order.
Dwayne prosecutes nine charges from a critic who admits he barely watched the show. Main character syndrome, bought views, an anti Triple H agenda, no format, ugly thumbnails, green screen lighting, too much space between the hosts, the voice, and subscribers as a vanity metric. MVP answers each one with 25 years in the business behind him.
MVP and Swayze break down why subscribers and US audience percentage actually matter to sponsors, drop game for young wrestlers, and deliver a verdict. Closing out with MVP's "Spotlights" performance video featuring Baby Bash.
Get early access, exclusive behind-the-scenes, and bonus content you won’t find anywhere else. Unlock the real story behind the squared circle—join our Patreon now → https://www.patreon.com/TheMarkingOutShow 🔥
About Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze:
Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze is a weekly pro wrestling podcast where longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP), a former WWE United States Champion and current AEW star and manager of The Hurt Syndicate, and Dwayne Swayze, a Houston based rapper, songwriter, and recording artist, get into the world of professional wrestling. Every week MVP and Dwayne break down wrestling history, promos, match psychology, road stories, and the business behind the spectacle, with the occasional guest joining the conversation.
New episodes every week. Audio drops at midnight ET Monday on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and everywhere podcasts are available, and the full video premieres Monday at 1 PM ET on YouTube. Subscribe for real talk, real stories, and a fresh perspective on professional wrestling.
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyE73 - 51m - Sep 28, 2026 - Can Someone Who Never Wrestled Teach You to Cut a Promo? (EP. 72)
Can someone who never laced up the boots teach a wrestler to cut a promo? MVP and Dwayne Swayze take on the promo debate after NXT head writer Johnny Russo's WWE tryout advice makes the rounds. Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze is the weekly pro wrestling conversation between longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP), a former WWE United States Champion and current AEW star and manager of The Hurt Syndicate, and Houston based rapper, songwriter, and recording artist Dwayne Swayze.
The guys dig into what actually makes a great promo, from speaking in complete sentences to whether you can ask questions with nobody there to answer, and whether being generic is the real killer. MVP draws on sitting in on a WWE promo class with Mick Foley's son and names Cactus Jack among the best promos ever.
They also break down Dark Side of the Ring and whether a show like that honors wrestling history or profits off tragedy, crediting expert voices like Jim Cornette and Eric Bischoff for giving the stories real depth.
Then it loosens up. MVP puts on Houston band DipTera and compares their path to Khruangbin, the two taste Eagle Rare 10 Year bourbon and launch the Swayze Scale, and Ryne Williams Visuals steps out from behind the camera to host the debut of Beat the BZZR.
Get early access, exclusive behind-the-scenes, and bonus content you won’t find anywhere else. Unlock the real story behind the squared circle—join our Patreon now → https://www.patreon.com/TheMarkingOutShow 🔥
About Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze:
Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze is a weekly pro wrestling podcast where longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP), a former WWE United States Champion and current AEW star and manager of The Hurt Syndicate, and Dwayne Swayze, a Houston based rapper, songwriter, and recording artist, get into the world of professional wrestling. Every week MVP and Dwayne break down wrestling history, promos, match psychology, road stories, and the business behind the spectacle, with the occasional guest joining the conversation.
New episodes every week. Audio drops at midnight ET Monday on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and everywhere podcasts are available, and the full video premieres Monday at 1 PM ET on YouTube. Subscribe for real talk, real stories, and a fresh perspective on professional wrestling.
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyE72 - 37m - Sep 21, 2026 - Is Roman Reigns Overrated? MVP Fires Back at the Industry Plant Take (EP. 71)
MVP breaks down whether Roman Reigns is overrated or an industry plant, digs into Zilla Fatu and the Umaga and Fatu bloodline, and reacts to The Rock chasing a country and soul music career. Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze is the weekly pro wrestling conversation between longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP), a former WWE United States Champion and current AEW star and manager of The Hurt Syndicate, and Houston based rapper, songwriter, and recording artist Dwayne Swayze.
MVP explains that the Anoa'i and Fatu families are two different Samoan wrestling lineages who still call each other cousins, then turns to Zilla Fatu, son of the late Umaga and the inaugural Fourth Rope Heavyweight Champion, who debuted in NXT by taking out Cruz Montana and Grayson Waller. He unpacks the head start and the weight that come with a name that heavy.
On the hottest take of the week, MVP answers Conrad Thompson's claim that Roman Reigns is the most overrated main eventer in WWE history and an industry plant, a take Booker T, JBL, and Adam Copeland pushed back on. He credits Paul Heyman's influence and quotes a line Austin Aries once used in an Impact locker room: "I can do your job. You can't do my job."
The guys then weigh The Rock telling Rolling Stone he is exploring country and soul music, the unfair yardstick a superstar faces in a new lane, and MVP's love of Parliament Funkadelic.
Get early access, exclusive behind-the-scenes, and bonus content you won’t find anywhere else. Unlock the real story behind the squared circle—join our Patreon now → https://www.patreon.com/TheMarkingOutShow 🔥
About Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze:
Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze is a weekly pro wrestling podcast where longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP), a former WWE United States Champion and current AEW star and manager of The Hurt Syndicate, and Dwayne Swayze, a Houston based rapper, songwriter, and recording artist, get into the world of professional wrestling. Every week MVP and Dwayne break down wrestling history, promos, match psychology, road stories, and the business behind the spectacle, with the occasional guest joining the conversation.
New episodes every week. Audio drops at midnight ET Monday on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and everywhere podcasts are available, and the full video premieres Monday at 1 PM ET on YouTube. Subscribe for real talk, real stories, and a fresh perspective on professional wrestling.
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyE71 - 47m - Sep 14, 2026 - What Really Happens to a Wrestler’s Contract After an Injury? (EP. 70)
Wrestling contracts, injury time, and wrestler pay lead Episode 70 as MVP explains how missed time can be added back to a deal, why injured wrestlers may still be paid, and when reclaiming that time can be fair business. Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze is the weekly pro wrestling conversation between longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP), a former WWE United States Champion and current AEW star and manager of The Hurt Syndicate, and Houston based rapper, songwriter, and recording artist Dwayne Swayze.
MVP also explains why wrestlers should not hide serious injuries or try to work through them, drawing on how the business has changed and why getting healthy protects both a career and a wrestler’s brand.
The conversation turns to Cowboy Bebop, its Netflix live action adaptation, Spike Spiegel, and why MVP considers the anime one of his all-time favorites.
MVP and Dwayne also debate LeBron James versus Michael Jordan, remember Tiger Mask IV and classic Japanese wrestling, and close with MVP’s approach to parenting through movies like Terminator 2, Alien, Die Hard, and Predator.
Get early access, exclusive behind-the-scenes, and bonus content you won’t find anywhere else. Unlock the real story behind the squared circle—join our Patreon now → https://www.patreon.com/TheMarkingOutShow 🔥
About Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze:
Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze is a weekly pro wrestling podcast where longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP), a former WWE United States Champion and current AEW star and manager of The Hurt Syndicate, and Dwayne Swayze, a Houston based rapper, songwriter, and recording artist, get into the world of professional wrestling. Every week MVP and Dwayne break down wrestling history, promos, match psychology, road stories, and the business behind the spectacle, with the occasional guest joining the conversation.
New episodes every week. Audio drops at midnight ET Monday on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and everywhere podcasts are available, and the full video premieres Monday at 1 PM ET on YouTube. Subscribe for real talk, real stories, and a fresh perspective on professional wrestling.
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyE70 - 38m - Sep 7, 2026 - MVP Explains Why Modern Wrestling Struggles to Create True Heels (EP. 69)
MVP breaks down the six rules of being a wrestling heel and explains why a real heel should be believable, disliked, and focused on getting heat instead of cheers. He digs into lessons from Arn Anderson and William Regal, the Ric Flair model of cowardly heel psychology, and why Finlay, Stone Cold Steve Austin, and Dirty Dom show what happens when the audience decides how a character is received.
The conversation shifts to the culture MVP entered as Antonio Banks, including Michael Hayes telling him that “business gets done at the bar,” the pressure to fit into wrestling’s old-school road lifestyle, and why MVP believes the wellness program ultimately saved lives. Then comes one of the episode’s funniest stories: Cuban Assassin Fidel Sierra suggesting that Banks capitalize on The Rock’s popularity by becoming “The Stone.”
The final stretch goes completely off the rails as MVP reveals his new Kali Uchis crush, talks about sliding into Chelsea Handler’s DMs, and debates phone numbers versus Instagram. Before wrapping, MVP and Dwayne confirm they would be babyfaces in their eventual tag match, and MVP tells Dwayne it is almost time for his first official in-ring training session.
About Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze:
Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze is a weekly pro wrestling podcast where longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP), a former WWE United States Champion and current AEW star and manager of The Hurt Syndicate, and Dwayne Swayze, a Houston based rapper, songwriter, and recording artist, get into the world of professional wrestling. Every week MVP and Dwayne break down wrestling history, promos, match psychology, road stories, and the business behind the spectacle, with the occasional guest joining the conversation.
New episodes every week. Audio drops at midnight ET Monday on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and everywhere podcasts are available, and the full video premieres Monday at 1 PM ET on YouTube. Subscribe for real talk, real stories, and a fresh perspective on professional wrestling.
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyE69 - 50m - Aug 31, 2026 - MVP Tells a Wild WWE Road Story About Two Multi-Time Champions (EP. 68)
MVP breaks down his philosophy that life comes in three 25-year periods, with overtime if you are fortunate enough to get it. Now approaching 53, he reflects on mortality, past choices, spending meaningful time with his son, and why appreciating the moments matters more than ever.
The conversation moves through Bad Brains’ 50th anniversary, Fishbone, Living Colour, and the music that shaped MVP as a teenager. He shares what it meant to be welcomed like family by musicians he grew up admiring and how hearing Fish Fisher recognize MVP’s own legacy as a trailblazer put that journey into perspective.
Then MVP tells one of the wildest stories he witnessed on the WWE road, involving two unnamed multi-time WWE Champions and an unforgettable Earl Grey incident. Dwayne also takes MVP back through TNA’s history, Jeff Jarrett’s “thousand what-ifs,” and MVP’s biggest question of all: what might have happened if Spike had bought Impact?
About Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze:
Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze is a weekly pro wrestling podcast where longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP), a former WWE United States Champion and current AEW star and manager of The Hurt Syndicate, and Dwayne Swayze, a Houston based rapper, songwriter, and recording artist, get into the world of professional wrestling. Every week MVP and Dwayne break down wrestling history, promos, match psychology, road stories, and the business behind the spectacle, with the occasional guest joining the conversation.
New episodes every week. Audio drops at midnight ET Monday on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and everywhere podcasts are available, and the full video premieres Monday at 1 PM ET on YouTube. Subscribe for real talk, real stories, and a fresh perspective on professional wrestling.
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyE68 - 46m - Aug 24, 2026 - MVP Reveals the John Laurinaitis Fallout That Sent Him to Japan (EP. 67)
MVP reveals the full story behind his John Laurinaitis fallout, the breaking point that ended his first WWE run, and the path that led him to New Japan Pro-Wrestling. Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze is the weekly pro wrestling conversation between longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP), a former WWE United States Champion and current AEW star and manager of The Hurt Syndicate, and Houston based rapper, songwriter, and recording artist Dwayne Swayze.
MVP traces the conflict back to WWE politics, a missed Denver live event, and a tense Calgary hotel-bar exchange where John Laurinaitis told him he should have hired a private jet. The argument escalated until Kevin Dunn stepped in.
Laurinaitis later apologized and acknowledged MVP's frustration, but MVP chose his release over a new five-year WWE contract and rebuilt his love for wrestling in Japan. He also explains how Laurinaitis helped him retain ownership of the MVP name.
The episode closes on Dwayne's music, played back to back. "If This Is Goodbye" is the reflective, jazz-tinged record where Dwayne weighs walking away from music entirely, and features his mother reciting an original poem on camera. "Fly Away" is the answer to that question, a jazzy hip-hop record shot during WrestleMania weekend in Las Vegas and directed by Ryne Williams, where the doubt gives way to purpose. Heard together, the two videos play like a single conversation about legacy, family, and why the pen stays in his hand.
Get early access, exclusive behind-the-scenes, and bonus content you won’t find anywhere else. Unlock the real story behind the squared circle—join our Patreon now → https://www.patreon.com/TheMarkingOutShow 🔥
About Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze:
Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze is a weekly pro wrestling podcast where longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP), a former WWE United States Champion and current AEW star and manager of The Hurt Syndicate, and Dwayne Swayze, a Houston based rapper, songwriter, and recording artist, get into the world of professional wrestling. Every week MVP and Dwayne break down wrestling history, promos, match psychology, road stories, and the business behind the spectacle, with the occasional guest joining the conversation.
New episodes every week. Audio drops at midnight ET Monday on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and everywhere podcasts are available, and the full video premieres Monday at 1 PM ET on YouTube. Subscribe for real talk, real stories, and a fresh perspective on professional wrestling.
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyE67 - 42m - Aug 17, 2026 - Conor McGregor’s UFC Return: MVP Says Father Time Is Undefeated (EP. 66)
Conor McGregor’s UFC comeback and injury lead MVP to declare that the former champion is washed and explain why Father Time remains undefeated. Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze is the weekly pro wrestling conversation between longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP), a former WWE United States Champion and current AEW star and manager of The Hurt Syndicate, and Houston based rapper, songwriter, and recording artist Dwayne Swayze.
MVP and Dwayne discuss how athletes know when it is time to stop, why professional wrestlers can continue beyond their physical prime, and who should tell a legend when the end has arrived.
MVP reveals that his final match could happen next year, explains why he would reject an AEW championship run, and separates Hassan from the MVP character.
He also remembers signing his first autograph as Antonio Banks, explains why he requested his WWE release, reflects on choosing New Japan over a new five-year deal, and corrects the misconception that WWE fired him.
About Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze:
Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze is a weekly pro wrestling podcast where longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP), a former WWE United States Champion and current AEW star and manager of The Hurt Syndicate, and Dwayne Swayze, a Houston based rapper, songwriter, and recording artist, get into the world of professional wrestling. Every week MVP and Dwayne break down wrestling history, promos, match psychology, road stories, and the business behind the spectacle, with the occasional guest joining the conversation.
New episodes every week. Audio drops at midnight ET Monday on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and everywhere podcasts are available, and the full video premieres Monday at 1 PM ET on YouTube. Subscribe for real talk, real stories, and a fresh perspective on professional wrestling.
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyE66 - 49m - Aug 10, 2026 - MVP Explains WWE’s 90-Day Talent Clause (EP. 65)
WWE contract restructuring and MVP’s account of TKO’s reported request that Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods accept 50 percent less lead this episode.
Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze is the weekly pro wrestling conversation between longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP), a former WWE United States Champion and current AEW star and manager of The Hurt Syndicate, and Houston based rapper, songwriter, and recording artist Dwayne Swayze.
MVP explains why talent is not in the room when corporate decision-makers evaluate contracts, how WWE’s 90-day release structure favored the company during his tenure, and why financially secure veterans can reject unfavorable terms.
He also shares the financial lessons he learned from Booker T, Jim Ross, Ricky Steamboat, and Jinder Mahal, including the six-figure IRS check he will never forget and the rule of dividing income into thirds.
The conversation begins with MVP fulfilling a bucket-list dream by seeing Jamiroquai in Portugal, then moves through football culture, racist abuse from some Argentina supporters, Premier League physicality, and the controversy surrounding a rescinded red card.
About Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze:
Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze is a weekly pro wrestling podcast where longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP), a former WWE United States Champion and current AEW star and manager of The Hurt Syndicate, and Dwayne Swayze, a Houston based rapper, songwriter, and recording artist, get into the world of professional wrestling. Every week MVP and Dwayne break down wrestling history, promos, match psychology, road stories, and the business behind the spectacle, with the occasional guest joining the conversation.
New episodes every week. Audio drops at midnight ET Monday on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and everywhere podcasts are available, and the full video premieres Monday at 1 PM ET on YouTube. Subscribe for real talk, real stories, and a fresh perspective on professional wrestling.
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyE65 - 40m - Aug 3, 2026 - AEW Stars Answer Hot Takes Backstage, From Most Dangerous to MJF vs Ospreay (EP. 64)
AEW's most dangerous without a title, MJF versus Will Ospreay, Swerve Strickland, John Moxley, Thekla, and Megan Bayne all get put to the test, with Lio Rush, Ricochet, Jack Perry, Lena Kross, Queen Aminata, Ariya Daivari, Lance Archer, Prince Nana, and Toa Liona all weighing in. Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze is the weekly pro wrestling conversation between longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP), a former WWE United States Champion and current AEW star and manager of The Hurt Syndicate, and Houston based rapper, songwriter, and recording artist Dwayne Swayze.
Dwayne works the room with the questions while MVP runs the setup. The MJF and Will Ospreay 2026 question splits the group, with most siding with MJF on title reigns and a few riding for Ospreay.
The danger talk goes deep on Swerve Strickland and John Moxley, including a firsthand story about stapling Swerve and getting a smile in return, and a read on how far Moxley is willing to go for the business. Brody King and Lance Archer both come up as the names to avoid, with a chokeslam story that turns into a running bit between the hosts.
The women's division gets its due, from Thekla's rise to AEW Women's World Champion to Megan Bayne's presence, plus an honest back and forth on whether Willow Nightingale or Jamie Hayter has more unfinished business at the top.
Get early access, exclusive behind-the-scenes, and bonus content you won’t find anywhere else. Unlock the real story behind the squared circle—join our Patreon now → https://www.patreon.com/TheMarkingOutShow 🔥
About Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze:
Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze is a weekly pro wrestling podcast where longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP), a former WWE United States Champion and current AEW star and manager of The Hurt Syndicate, and Dwayne Swayze, a Houston based rapper, songwriter, and recording artist, get into the world of professional wrestling. Every week MVP and Dwayne break down wrestling history, promos, match psychology, road stories, and the business behind the spectacle, with the occasional guest joining the conversation.
New episodes every week. Audio drops at midnight ET Monday on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and everywhere podcasts are available, and the full video premieres Monday at 1 PM ET on YouTube. Subscribe for real talk, real stories, and a fresh perspective on professional wrestling.
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyE64 - 29m - Jul 27, 2026 - MVP Recalls Japan’s 2011 Earthquake And Fukushima Scare (EP. 63)
MVP’s 2011 Japan earthquake story, the Tohoku tsunami, Fukushima fear, New Japan Pro-Wrestling, Will Ospreay, Bret Hart, Steve Austin, Goldberg, Ultimate Warrior, Patrick Ewing, and Hakeem Olajuwon all come up in Episode 63.
Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze is the weekly pro wrestling conversation between longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP), a former WWE United States Champion and current AEW star and manager of The Hurt Syndicate, and Houston based rapper, songwriter, and recording artist Dwayne Swayze.
MVP and Dwayne begin with the aftermath of the Will Ospreay conversation, including Ospreay’s New Japan run during COVID, MVP’s WWE PC and Thunderdome era memories, Bobby Lashley’s WrestleMania championship moment, and the emotional reality of wrestling without a live crowd.
That leads MVP into a deeply personal story from Japan. He recalls being in Tokyo during the 2011 Tohoku earthquake, seeing buildings sway, watching tsunami footage, dealing with aftershocks, and later hearing about Fukushima while stuck at the Tokyo Dome Hotel during a New Japan tour.
The episode closes with hot takes on whether prime Bret Hart or prime Steve Austin would struggle today, Goldberg versus Ultimate Warrior, and a basketball argument over Patrick Ewing, Hakeem Olajuwon, Shaquille O’Neal, and the physicality of different eras.
About Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze:
Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze is a weekly pro wrestling podcast where longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP), a former WWE United States Champion and current AEW star and manager of The Hurt Syndicate, and Dwayne Swayze, a Houston based rapper, songwriter, and recording artist, get into the world of professional wrestling. Every week MVP and Dwayne break down wrestling history, promos, match psychology, road stories, and the business behind the spectacle, with the occasional guest joining the conversation.
New episodes every week. Audio drops at midnight ET Monday on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and everywhere podcasts are available, and the full video premieres Monday at 1 PM ET on YouTube. Subscribe for real talk, real stories, and a fresh perspective on professional wrestling.
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyE63 - 50m - Jul 20, 2026 - Will Ospreay Explains Why His IWGP Title Dream Broke Him (EP. 62)
Will Ospreay, the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship, New Japan, and the COVID era are the center of this guest episode as Ospreay opens up about the dream he chased and the reality he lived once the crowd noise disappeared.
Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze is the weekly pro wrestling conversation between longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP), a former WWE United States Champion and current AEW star and manager of The Hurt Syndicate, and Houston based rapper, songwriter, and recording artist Dwayne Swayze.
Ospreay and MVP start with their early connection in Scotland, Ospreay’s first time hanging out with TV wrestlers, and the way their friendship picked back up when MVP arrived in AEW.
The conversation moves into Ospreay’s New Japan path, from wrestling Kazuchika Okada in England to declining the WWE Cruiserweight Classic, signing with New Japan, and spending eight years growing up in Japan.
Ospreay gets honest about winning the IWGP World Heavyweight Championship during COVID, crying when Gedo told him the plan, then realizing the moment happened in near silence. He also details the Shingo title defense where his back injury worsened, handing back the belt, his final cage match with United Empire and War Dogs, Pro Wrestling Eve, women’s wrestling, hot takes, Nando’s, Essex, and MVP’s homework for Dwayne.
Get early access, exclusive behind-the-scenes, and bonus content you won’t find anywhere else. Unlock the real story behind the squared circle—join our Patreon now → https://www.patreon.com/TheMarkingOutShow 🔥
About Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze:
Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze is a weekly pro wrestling podcast where longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP), a former WWE United States Champion and current AEW star and manager of The Hurt Syndicate, and Dwayne Swayze, a Houston based rapper, songwriter, and recording artist, get into the world of professional wrestling. Every week MVP and Dwayne break down wrestling history, promos, match psychology, road stories, and the business behind the spectacle, with the occasional guest joining the conversation.
New episodes every week. Audio drops at midnight ET Monday on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and everywhere podcasts are available, and the full video premieres Monday at 1 PM ET on YouTube. Subscribe for real talk, real stories, and a fresh perspective on professional wrestling.
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyE62 - 1h 7m - Jul 13, 2026 - MVP Was Turned Off By Bad Bunny Until WrestleMania (EP. 61)
Bad Bunny, WrestleMania in Tampa, and earning real wrestling respect drive Episode 61. Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze is the weekly pro wrestling conversation between longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP), a former WWE United States Champion and current AEW star and manager of The Hurt Syndicate, and Houston based rapper, songwriter, and recording artist Dwayne Swayze.
MVP explains why main event presence cannot be manufactured, using The Rock, Great Khali, Daniel Bryan, and Ultimate Warrior to separate presentation from real aura.
The conversation turns to celebrities crossing into wrestling, from Andy Kaufman and Jerry Lawler to Bad Bunny. MVP recalls wrestling in Puerto Rico for IWA, learning Bad Bunny trained seriously during the pandemic, and later telling him after WrestleMania that he had earned his respect.
MVP and Dwayne also cover Wests Tigers rugby league, a Rat Pack moment, Milky Way Soul, Bobby Caldwell, heel psychology, and Dwayne Swayze’s “Fly Away” music video.
Get early access, exclusive behind-the-scenes, and bonus content you won’t find anywhere else. Unlock the real story behind the squared circle—join our Patreon now → https://www.patreon.com/TheMarkingOutShow 🔥
About Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze:
Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze is a weekly pro wrestling podcast where longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP), a former WWE United States Champion and current AEW star and manager of The Hurt Syndicate, and Dwayne Swayze, a Houston based rapper, songwriter, and recording artist, get into the world of professional wrestling. Every week MVP and Dwayne break down wrestling history, promos, match psychology, road stories, and the business behind the spectacle, with the occasional guest joining the conversation.
New episodes every week. Audio drops at midnight ET Monday on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and everywhere podcasts are available, and the full video premieres Monday at 1 PM ET on YouTube. Subscribe for real talk, real stories, and a fresh perspective on professional wrestling.
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyE61 - 40m - Jul 6, 2026 - EP. 60 – Montel Vontavious Porter on Carrying Ric Flair at Madison Square Garden
Hosted by friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP) and Houston-based rapper & songwriter Dwayne Swayze, Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze takes you inside pro wrestling like never before. In EP. 60, MVP explains what makes a wrestler TV-ready, then revisits his Royal Rumble 2008 match with Ric Flair at Madison Square Garden, all with raw, unfiltered insight from a respected veteran.
MVP opens with lessons on poise, pacing, ring awareness, safety, and why being pushed too early can be more dangerous than being overlooked. He highlights Joe Alonzo as a young talent who made an impression under pressure.
The episode shifts into a Ric Flair vs MVP watch along, including Flair’s final Madison Square Garden match and MVP’s first match at the Garden. MVP recalls their Houston United States Championship match and the VIP Lounge segment where Flair tore up the script.
MVP shares the backstage story of being asked to help get Flair through the match, the guidance he received from Arn Anderson, and the moment Flair thanked him afterward.
The episode closes with MVP’s Auckland Warriors rugby league shirt, a New Zealand haka story, and a preview of Dwayne’s upcoming music video.
About Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze:
Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze is a weekly pro wrestling podcast where longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP), a former WWE United States Champion and current AEW star and manager of The Hurt Syndicate, and Dwayne Swayze, a Houston based rapper, songwriter, and recording artist, get into the world of professional wrestling. Every week MVP and Dwayne break down wrestling history, promos, match psychology, road stories, and the business behind the spectacle, with the occasional guest joining the conversation.
New episodes every week. Audio drops at midnight ET Monday on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and everywhere podcasts are available, and the full video premieres Monday at 1 PM ET on YouTube. Subscribe for real talk, real stories, and a fresh perspective on professional wrestling.
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyE60 - 57m - Jun 29, 2026 - EP. 59 – Montel Vontavious Porter Breaks Down Kane Inferno Match
Hosted by longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP) and Houston-based rapper & songwriter Dwayne Swayze, Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze takes you inside the world of professional wrestling like never before. In Episode 59, MVP and Dwayne cover Father’s Day, young wrestlers chasing viral moments, bad contracts, the Kane Inferno match at WWE Armageddon 2006, and WWE paydays, all with raw, unfiltered insight from one of the most respected veterans in the business.
Dwayne opens with a dad story from his daughter’s hip-hop dance class before MVP surprises him with a Father’s Day gift tied to Jay-Z bars and a Datejust. The moment becomes a real appreciation of the work behind the show.
MVP explains why viral clips can hide poor fundamentals, why some independent contracts are traps, and why learning how to wrestle for television is different from working a live room.
The centerpiece is a full watch along for Kane vs. MVP from WWE Armageddon 2006. MVP breaks down the fire gel, cold safety gear, dress rehearsal, learning from Kane, struggling to breathe, and the backstage ovation that made him feel like he belonged.
MVP also reflects on the matches fans remember most, his Inferno match payoff, advice from Batista about discussing money, an Umaga lesson about challenging a low payoff, Dwayne’s upcoming music, and a D. Wade story from Mansion nightclub.
About Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze:
Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze is a weekly pro wrestling podcast where longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP), a former WWE United States Champion and current AEW star and manager of The Hurt Syndicate, and Dwayne Swayze, a Houston based rapper, songwriter, and recording artist, get into the world of professional wrestling. Every week MVP and Dwayne break down wrestling history, promos, match psychology, road stories, and the business behind the spectacle, with the occasional guest joining the conversation.
New episodes every week. Audio drops at midnight ET Monday on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and everywhere podcasts are available, and the full video premieres Monday at 1 PM ET on YouTube. Subscribe for real talk, real stories, and a fresh perspective on professional wrestling.
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyE59 - 1h 11m - Jun 22, 2026 - EP. 58 – Kenny King Talks Vince Russo, Beatdown Clan & TNA Drama
Hosted by longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP) and Houston-based rapper & songwriter Dwayne Swayze, Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze takes you inside the world of professional wrestling like never before. In Episode 58, Kenny King joins MVP and Dwayne for a late-night Vegas conversation about family validation, Tough Enough, TNA, Ring of Honor, Nickelodeon, Beatdown Clan, and the cost of surviving the business with your body, pride, and story intact.
Kenny opens up about his father once believing wrestling would lead him to “smoke filled rooms,” only for life to come full circle when his dad later needed him to sign 8x10s for clients.
Dwayne marks out over My Brother and Me as Kenny looks back on Goo Punch, the pilot episode, and nearly becoming a main cast member before the second season fell apart.
MVP and Kenny revisit TNA and Impact Wrestling, including the strange promo script that led into the Vince Russo ghostwriting story, Kenny’s early run with Raven and Samoa Joe moments, and his move into Ring of Honor with Bryan Danielson, Tyler Black, and the Briscoes.
The episode closes with Beatdown Clan’s origin, official members, music, creative freedom, and backstage problems. Kenny also gives younger wrestlers hard-earned advice on protecting their bodies, choosing smarter risks, and understanding why doing more does not always mean giving more.
About Marking Out with MVP and Dwayne Swayze:
Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze is a weekly wrestling podcast hosted by longtime friends MVP, a professional wrestling veteran with over 20 years in the business, and Dwayne Swayze, a Houston-based rapper with a deep love for the sport. Every Monday, MVP pulls back the curtain on pro wrestling, breaking down its history, behind-the-scenes moments, and the psychology that makes it all work. With firsthand experience in the ring, he shares unfiltered insight, legendary road stories, and deep dives into promos, match strategy, and the business behind the spectacle. No topic is off limits.
New episodes release every Monday. Audio drops at midnight CT on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and everywhere podcasts are available. The full video show premieres at noon CT on YouTube. Subscribe for real talk, real stories, and a fresh perspective on the world of professional wrestling.
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyE58 - 1h 0m - Jun 15, 2026 - EP. 57 - MVP & Dwayne Swayze Hit Vegas During WrestleMania Weekend
Hosted by longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP) and Houston-based rapper Dwayne Swayze, Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze takes you inside professional wrestling like never before. In Episode 57, MVP and Dwayne move through WrestleMania weekend in Las Vegas, from the Palms and Barry’s Downtown Prime at Circa to Fremont Street, Kenny King, Mega Ran, and fan encounters.
MVP reflects on public recognition, why fan attention is not a burden, and how 20-plus years in wrestling still connect through memories, AEW, and The Hurt Syndicate.
The episode includes dinner at Barry’s Downtown Prime with Chavo Guerrero Jr. and Carlito. Chef Barry Dakake takes MVP and the guys into the kitchen to meet the staff before a Wheel of Fortune win.
On Fremont Street, MVP explains how prison, wrestling, and road life sharpened his awareness in public spaces. He also recalls his first nightclub experience after coming home, when “Back That Ass Up” changed the room.
Later, Dwayne reconnects with Mega Ran to talk wrestling-influenced hip-hop, 3MB, family music, podcasting, and X-Men before the episode closes with a powerful on-camera fan moment about MVP’s story giving someone hope.
Get early access, exclusive behind-the-scenes, and bonus content you won’t find anywhere else. Unlock the real story behind the squared circle—join our Patreon now → https://www.patreon.com/TheMarkingOutShow 🔥
About Marking Out with MVP and Dwayne Swayze:
Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze is a weekly wrestling podcast hosted by longtime friends MVP, a professional wrestling veteran with over 20 years in the business, and Dwayne Swayze, a Houston-based rapper with a deep love for the sport. Every Monday, MVP pulls back the curtain on pro wrestling, breaking down its history, behind-the-scenes moments, and the psychology that makes it all work. With firsthand experience in the ring, he shares unfiltered insight, legendary road stories, and deep dives into promos, match strategy, and the business behind the spectacle. No topic is off limits.
New episodes release every Monday. Audio drops at midnight CT on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and everywhere podcasts are available. The full video show premieres at noon CT on YouTube. Subscribe for real talk, real stories, and a fresh perspective on the world of professional wrestling.
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyE57 - 33m - Jun 8, 2026 - EP. 56 – WrestleCon Day 2: Rare Memorabilia, Fan Love & Palms Slam Fest
Hosted by longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP) and Houston-based rapper & songwriter Dwayne Swayze, Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze takes you inside the world of professional wrestling like never before. This episode follows WrestleCon Day 2, from Swayze’s Mick Foley hug story to Heritage Auctions, Morgan & Morgan, fan conversations, Palms Slam Fest 2026, and veteran road stories.
At WrestleCon, Swayze speaks with Zach Pogemiller from Heritage Auctions about rare memorabilia, including Hulk Hogan gear, Macho Man items, Mick Foley history, Andre the Giant signatures, and Bray Wyatt boots.
The episode also features Morgan & Morgan’s sponsor setup and Michael Wright, https://www.instagram.com/wright2bfit78, from C.T. Fletcher Presents: The F Y'all Podcast talking weight loss, discipline, health scares, and open-heart surgery.
Swayze talks with a longtime fan before MVP hears from fans about his career and favorite moments. It moves from the convention floor to car service, then to Palms hotel for Palms Slam Fest 2026.
Thrasher from The Headbangers, Priscilla Kelly, Real1, and A.J. Francis make cameos, with Real1 calling MVP a “certified G.” Later, Shelton Benjamin, Chris Masters, Bobby Lashley, MVP, Carlito, and Chavo Guerrero Jr. trade stories about the Master Lock, Mark Henry, the Guerrero family, Bad News Brown, and road time.
About Marking Out with MVP and Dwayne Swayze:
Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze is a weekly wrestling podcast hosted by longtime friends MVP, a professional wrestling veteran with over 20 years in the business, and Dwayne Swayze, a Houston-based rapper with a deep love for the sport. Every Monday, MVP pulls back the curtain on pro wrestling, breaking down its history, behind-the-scenes moments, and the psychology that makes it all work. With firsthand experience in the ring, he shares unfiltered insight, legendary road stories, and deep dives into promos, match strategy, and the business behind the spectacle. No topic is off limits.
New episodes release every Monday. Audio drops at midnight CT on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and everywhere podcasts are available. The full video show premieres at noon CT on YouTube. Subscribe for real talk, real stories, and a fresh perspective on the world of professional wrestling.
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyE56 - 36m - Jun 1, 2026 - EP. 55 – Brawl Crawl at AREA15: Wrestling, Comedy, and Fan Questions
Hosted by longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP) and Houston-based rapper & songwriter Dwayne Swayze, Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze takes you inside the world of professional wrestling like never before. Filmed during the Brawl Crawl event hosted by The Paragon Talent Group at AREA15 in Las Vegas on Friday, April 17, this episode follows MVP and Dwayne through a fan-driven night of wrestling questions, RJ City’s comedy set, stories about MVP’s WWE gear, Dave Meltzer’s star ratings, the Hurt Business, AEW, and real wrestling beef, all with raw, unfiltered insight from one of the most respected veterans in the business.
The original Brawl Crawl lineup featured Santino, MVP, Priscilla, RJ City, and Carlito, bringing a mix of wrestling personalities, comedy, and fan interaction into one Las Vegas event.
MVP breaks down the origin of his first WWE bodysuit, from the Nike Dri-FIT and Under Armour influence to the version he was handed before his pay-per-view debut.
The conversation also turns to Meltzer’s five-star match ratings, why MVP values crowd reactions and respect from legends more than outside scores, and how Shelton Benjamin’s release helped push the Hurt Syndicate toward AEW.
From AREA15 to RJ City’s stand-up set to direct fan questions about WWE, AEW, performance nerves, and real wrestling beef, Episode 55 is one of the most unpredictable road episodes yet from Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze.
Get early access, exclusive behind-the-scenes, and bonus content you won’t find anywhere else. Unlock the real story behind the squared circle—join our Patreon now → https://www.patreon.com/TheMarkingOutShow 🔥
About Marking Out with MVP and Dwayne Swayze:
Marking Out with MVP & Dwayne Swayze is a weekly wrestling podcast hosted by longtime friends MVP, a professional wrestling veteran with over 20 years in the business, and Dwayne Swayze, a Houston-based rapper with a deep love for the sport. Every Monday, MVP pulls back the curtain on pro wrestling, breaking down its history, behind-the-scenes moments, and the psychology that makes it all work. With firsthand experience in the ring, he shares unfiltered insight, legendary road stories, and deep dives into promos, match strategy, and the business behind the spectacle. No topic is off limits.
New episodes release every Monday. Audio drops at midnight CT on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and everywhere podcasts are available. The full video show premieres at noon CT on YouTube. Subscribe for real talk, real stories, and a fresh perspective on the world of professional wrestling.
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyE55 - 38m - May 25, 2026
