Episode Summary: The Undisputed Champion Of Neck Tattoos with Cody Rhodes | 2 Bears, 1 Cave

Release Date: December 30, 2024

In this engaging episode of Two Bears, One Cave, host Tom Segura and comedian friend Bert Kreischer delve deep into the world of professional wrestling with special guest Cody Rhodes, a renowned wrestler and the "Undisputed Champion of Neck Tattoos." The conversation weaves through personal anecdotes, industry insights, and the evolving landscape of wrestling entertainment, all while maintaining the show’s signature humor and camaraderie.

1. Welcoming Cody Rhodes and WWE Raw's Netflix Transition

The episode kicks off with Tom Segura enthusiastically introducing Cody Rhodes, highlighting his status as a world champion and setting the stage for a conversation that promises both humor and depth.

Tom Segura [00:30]: "Welcome to another episode of Two Bears, One Cave. I'm Tom. He's Bert. And joining us today, we don't often get to say this, but we're actually being joined by a world champion. So please put your hands together for the one and only Cody Rhodes, everybody."

Early in the discussion, the hosts announce a significant development in the wrestling world: WWE Raw will be streaming on Netflix starting January 6th. This move marks a pivotal shift in how wrestling content is consumed, aiming to reach a broader and more diverse audience.

Tom Segura [00:51]: "And then a huge announcement because the platform of Netflix just keeps expanding. Raw is going to Netflix on January 6th."

Mike Tyson joins the conversation to express enthusiasm about this transition, noting the potential for increased viewership and the evolution of RAW's presentation on a global streaming platform.

Mike Tyson [01:09]: "The amount of things that they've done is pretty limited, but it's been a huge hit. It's fucking huge, man. So congrats."

2. Personal Stories: Cody Rhodes Meets Mike Tyson

A significant portion of the episode revolves around Cody Rhodes recounting his memorable interactions with former heavyweight boxing champion Mike Tyson. These stories not only highlight the unique friendships forged in the wrestling and sports industries but also provide humorous and heartfelt moments.

Cody Rhodes [06:20]: "And he holds the dvd. He's like, this picture. I was like, yeah, that's the. I just gave that to you."

One standout anecdote involves Tom's encounter with Mike Tyson, where Tyson unexpectedly showed up at one of Tom’s comedy shows after meeting him on a flight. The story underscores the genuine and often surprising connections that can occur between stars from different arenas.

Tom Segura [07:13]: "He goes, we're coming to your show tonight. And I go, okay. So I call the club, and I'm like, mike Tyson's coming to the show?"

Mike Tyson shares personal reflections on his time in the wrestling world, emphasizing the blend of athleticism and performance that defines professional wrestling.

Mike Tyson [08:31]: "Yes, it was incredible. And he told stories and, like, I would throw out names of boxers and he would be like, that guy's a..."

3. Wrestling Industry Insights: Evolution and Authenticity

The conversation transitions into a more analytical discussion about the wrestling industry's evolution, particularly focusing on Vince McMahon's groundbreaking moves that reshaped the business. The hosts explore how Vince's decision to centralize wrestling content and expand its reach has influenced modern wrestling.

Mike Tyson [21:19]: "So mob stuff, genuinely. Yeah. This was your whole livelihood, you know, my father."

They delve into the strategies employed by wrestling promoters to engage audiences, the importance of authenticity in character portrayals, and the challenges of maintaining relevance in a rapidly changing entertainment landscape.

Mike Tyson [32:32]: "There's multiple mediums of entertainment. Don't be in a bubble. Like, don't be afraid to do a little crossover thing."

4. Neck Tattoos and Personal Branding

True to the episode's title, a significant portion of the discussion centers around Cody Rhodes' decision to get a neck tattoo. This personal choice becomes a springboard for conversations about self-expression, branding in sports entertainment, and the societal perceptions of tattoos in professional settings.

Cody Rhodes [48:12]: "And remember when I shot the bullseye with the bucking bow and arrow? That was, like, my highlight."

Tom Segura [48:22]: "Very few people can find employment after a neck tattoo. When did you decide to do it?"

Cody narrates the backstory of his iconic neck tattoo, explaining his motivations to differentiate his personal brand and assert his individuality within the WWE framework. The hosts discuss the broader implications of visible tattoos for athletes and entertainers, touching upon cultural shifts and acceptance.

Mike Tyson [49:00]: "I want to be as bold as making. I'm going to. I'm going all in on my own thing. So I had this idea that I would put it on my chest."

5. Final Reflections and Future of Wrestling

As the episode winds down, Cody Rhodes, Tom Segura, and Mike Tyson reflect on their experiences within the wrestling industry. They discuss the future trajectory of WWE, the importance of embracing new technologies and platforms, and the enduring appeal of wrestling as a form of entertainment.

Tom Segura [53:01]: "I think at a glance. No, but once, like, as a. If you were running for something, like governor, the thing about it is your story gets out, so you become. Actually, you'd become the person who opens doors for throat tattoo people."

Mike Tyson [54:00]: "Yeah."

The trio emphasizes the necessity for the wrestling industry to remain adaptable, authentic, and inclusive to sustain its legacy and captivate future generations.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Tom Segura [00:30]: "We're actually being joined by a world champion."
• Mike Tyson [01:09]: "It's fucking huge, man. So congrats."
• Cody Rhodes [07:20]: "He gave me my number, and I gave him mine."
• Mike Tyson [21:19]: "This was your whole livelihood, you know, my father."
• Cody Rhodes [48:12]: "When did you decide to do it?"
• Mike Tyson [49:00]: "I'm going all in on my own thing."
• Tom Segura [53:01]: "You become the person who opens doors for throat tattoo people."

Conclusion

This episode of Two Bears, One Cave offers a rich tapestry of stories and insights from Cody Rhodes, blending personal experiences with broader industry analysis. From the heartfelt narrative of interactions with Mike Tyson to the bold statement of sporting identity through neck tattoos, the conversation provides listeners with both laughter and thoughtful commentary on the intersection of sports, entertainment, and personal branding. Whether you're a wrestling aficionado or new to the realm, this episode delivers a compelling listen filled with memorable moments and valuable takeaways.