PMS 2.0 1327 - Feel Good WrestleMania Friday Live from WWE World in Las Vegas With Roman Reigns, Stone Cold Steve Austin, Rhea Ripley, Triple H, Michael Cole, Darius Butler, & AJ Hawk

Summary

The Pat McAfee Show – Episode PMS 2.0 1327 Summary

Release Date: April 18, 2025

Join Pat McAfee and his lively co-hosts as they bring you an exclusive live broadcast from WWE World in Las Vegas, Nevada, during the electrifying WrestleMania Weekend. This episode is packed with interviews, insider insights, and spirited discussions featuring wrestling legends and current stars. Below is a detailed summary capturing all the key moments, discussions, and notable quotes from the episode.

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1. Introduction and Setting

Timestamp: [00:02] – [04:00]

Pat McAfee welcomes listeners to Las Vegas for "Feel Good Friday," highlighting the global anticipation surrounding WrestleMania. He emphasizes the grandeur of the event, predicting it will be "something that is talked about for the rest of our entire lives." The set at WWE World in the Las Vegas Convention Center is bustling with fans, underscoring the event's massive scale.

Pat McAfee:
"WrestleMania weekend is the greatest weekend in the history of Sin City, baby."

Pat introduces his co-hosts and guests, including Michael Cole, Triple H, Darius Butler, Razor Ramon, and the legendary Hulk Hogan.

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2. Guest Introductions and Banter

Timestamp: [04:00] – [09:58]

The hosts engage in playful banter, welcoming Michael Cole with enthusiastic chants from guests like Roman Reigns and Hulk Hogan. Triple H shares his pride in 28 years as a WrestleMania commentator, highlighting his undefeated streak at the event.

Triple H:
"This year marks year number 28 of being a commentator at WrestleMania."
Pat McAfee:
"You should take a lot of pride in that. That's a record, obviously."
Triple H:
"And I'll tell you, you're also undefeated at WrestleMania."

Darius Butler is introduced as a WWE Superstar featured in WWE 2K24, receiving positive remarks for his involvement in the NXT run.

---

3. Interview with Roman Reigns

Timestamp: [16:49] – [38:42]

Pat McAfee sits down with Roman Reigns, the Tribal Chief, delving into his motivations and mindset heading into the major triple threat match against Roman, CM Punk, and Seth Rollins.

Pat McAfee:
"I'm trying to be in the mix. I'm trying to hold it down. I'm trying to take the top spot and hold the power by its throat."

Roman articulates his desire to reclaim the top position and his disdain for being labeled a legend, emphasizing his focus on the present and continuous improvement.

Roman Reigns:
"I want the power back. I want it all back. I want that top spot back."

He discusses the betrayal felt from Paul Heyman siding with CM Punk, expressing frustration over broken trust and alliances.

Roman Reigns:
"Sometimes it's gonna smack the out of you. Sometimes people don't understand how that helps."

Roman also touches on his training regimen in Las Vegas, treating WrestleMania like a championship fight with no room for shortcuts.

---

4. Interview with Stone Cold Steve Austin

Timestamp: [47:20] – [67:09]

Pat McAfee welcomes the iconic Stone Cold Steve Austin to the show. They reminisce about Austin's influence on their lives and the wrestling industry.

Pat McAfee:
"You are the hero, the legend in my eyes. Thank you for coming on the show today."

Austin shares anecdotes about his time with Pat and AJ Hawk, highlighting memorable moments and the enduring legacy of his persona.

Stone Cold Steve Austin:
"Perhaps one of the coolest segments I've ever seen in WWE was when we poured that Maker's Mark whiskey in those little plastic cups."

Their conversation underscores the camaraderie and mutual respect among wrestling icons, blending humor with heartfelt appreciation.

---

5. Interview with Rhea Ripley

Timestamp: [77:31] – [89:18]

Pat McAfee sits down with Rhea Ripley, also known as "Mommy," to discuss her upcoming triple threat match for the women's World Championship against Iyo Sky and Bianca Belair.

Rhea Ripley:
"I am as ready as I'm going to be, and I cannot wait."

Ripley opens up about embracing her true self, shedding insecurities, and the importance of authenticity both in and out of the ring.

Rhea Ripley:
"I wanted to be my true self and started dressing the way that I wanted to dress. It felt really, really good."

She emphasizes the unpredictability of triple threat matches and her determination to reclaim the championship, despite past challenges and betrayals.

---

6. Match Predictions and Panel Discussions

Timestamp: [89:18] – [167:35]

The latter part of the episode features lively discussions and match predictions for WrestleMania Saturday and Sunday. The panel, including Triple H, Hulk Hogan, Razor Ramon, Darius Butler, and AJ Hawk, passionately debate the outcomes of various matches.

Notable Predictions:

• Roman Reigns vs. Seth Rollins vs. CM Punk:

  • AJ Hawk: Chooses Roman Reigns to retain the title.
  • Triple H: Picks Cody Rhodes, believing he deserves to win.
  • Hulk Hogan: Supports Roman Reigns, citing his dominance.

• Rhea Ripley vs. Iyo Sky vs. Bianca Belair:

  • AJ Hawk: Favors Iyo Sky for her impressive performance and under-the-radar popularity.
  • Triple H: Agrees with Iyo Sky, predicting she will retain her title.
  • Hulk Hogan: Also supports Iyo Sky, lauding her presence and performance.

• Jade Cargill vs. Naomi:

  • AJ Hawk: Backs Jade Cargill for her remarkable prowess.
  • Razor Ramon: Chooses Naomi, appreciating her technical skills.
  • Triple H: Favors Jade Cargill over Naomi.

• Drew McIntyre vs. Damian Priest (Sin City Street Fight):

  • AJ Hawk: Opts for Logan Paul in a different match.
  • Triple H: Predicts Damian Priest will dominate due to his resilience and connection with the fans.
  • Hulk Hogan: Supports Damian Priest, praising his athleticism and dedication.

• Charlotte Flair vs. Tiffany Stratton:

  • AJ Hawk: Predicts Tiffany Stratton will win.
  • Triple H: Believes Charlotte Flair will dominate due to her legacy.
  • Hulk Hogan: Confirms support for Charlotte Flair, recognizing her influence in WWE.

• Intercontinental Title Fatal Four-Way (Dirty Dominik Mysterio, Finn Balor, Braun Breaker, AJ Hawk):

  • AJ Hawk: Chooses Braun Breaker for his explosive ability.
  • Triple H: Anticipates Judgment Day members retaining the title.
  • Hulk Hogan: Selects Braun Breaker, appreciating his strength and performance.

Pat McAfee:
"It's a business where the fans very much matter. And in the world that we're in though, it's like, are the fans that are the most vocal, representing the most amount of people?"

The panel's dynamic interactions and differing opinions highlight the passionate fanbase and the unpredictable nature of professional wrestling.

---

7. Closing Remarks

Timestamp: [167:35] – End

As the show wraps up, Pat McAfee reflects on the significance of WrestleMania Weekend, praising the growth and evolution of WWE. He emphasizes the importance of fan engagement and the continuous drive for excellence within the industry.

Pat McAfee:
"This weekend, I am incredibly lucky to be a part of the weekend. WrestleMania is going to be spectacular."

The episode concludes with acknowledgments of the guests' contributions and a final toast to an unforgettable WrestleMania Weekend, promising continued coverage and analysis in future episodes.

---

Notable Quotes

• Pat McAfee:
  "WrestleMania weekend is the greatest weekend in the history of Sin City, baby." [00:02]

• Triple H:
  "This year marks year number 28 of being a commentator at WrestleMania." [04:12]

• Roman Reigns:
  "I want the power back. I want it all back. I want that top spot back." [17:59]

• Stone Cold Steve Austin:
  "These guys are paying tribute, too. To everyone." [07:45]

• Rhea Ripley:
  "I am ready. I want my women's World Championship back." [80:09]

• Hulk Hogan:
  "Michael Cole. Michael Cole.
  I think this week we spend a lot of time, put it this way, what we have done for WrestleMania is now kind of done." [158:11]

---

Conclusion

This episode of The Pat McAfee Show offers an in-depth and entertaining exploration of WrestleMania Weekend, featuring candid conversations with top WWE superstars and legends. Pat McAfee's engaging hosting style, combined with the diverse perspectives of his panel, provides listeners with a comprehensive and enjoyable preview of one of the biggest events in sports entertainment.

Whether you're a die-hard wrestling fan or a casual observer, this episode captures the essence of WrestleMania's excitement, the intricate storylines, and the camaraderie among wrestling's elite.

Transcript

[Pat McAfee]

Hello, beautiful people. And welcome to glorious Las Vegas, Nevada on this Feel good. Friday, April 18, 2025. This program begins now. WrestleMania is what the entire world is talking about. And I have the distinct honor and privilege to be the one to say welcome to the greatest weekend in the history of of Sin City, baby.

[Darius Butler]

The career is more at state when.

[Pat McAfee]

You in your prime that paper baby.

[Darius Butler]

My face on the dotted line I've.

[Michael Cole]

Been flying out of town for some.

[Pat McAfee]

Peace of mind it's like always, they just want a peace of mind. I've been focused on the future never on right now what I'm sipping I can butcher either pink or brown I'm.

[Darius Butler]

The one that introduce you to you right now.

[Pat McAfee]

Oh my God.

[Triple H]

Welcome to WrestleMania.

[Pat McAfee]

Hell yeah. Welcome to WrestleMania weekend in Las Vegas, Nevada. The eats are in abundance already. Because what's about to happen in this city over the next few days is going to be something that is talked about for the rest of our entire lives. Legends are going to be created, stories are going to develop, people's hearts are going to break, and dreams are going to come true. The greatest spectacle in the history of sports has landed in Las Vegas, Nevada. And we are so incredibly lucky to be here. Now, as you see, the folks have showed up here at WWE World, here at the Las Vegas Convention center. And if you are near, come by. This is a great community to be a part of. We celebrate the hell out of what we are all love, which is professional wrestling. From the moment we wake up to the moment we go to bed, that's what WrestleMania weekend is. And it is great to be here. Now, obviously, the desk looks a little bit empty. Need to introduce some of my friends, some of my co hosts today at WrestleMania, a man that I sit at a commentary desk next to every Monday night. The greatest of all time, the voice of the wwe, ladies and gentlemen, Michael Cole. Big pop for Cole. Michael Cole. Getting big pops.

[Roman Reigns]

Michael Cole.

[Hulk Hogan]

Michael Cole.

[Pat McAfee]

Michael. I love it. Michael Cole.

[Hulk Hogan]

Michael Cole.

[Pat McAfee]

Michael Cole.

[Hulk Hogan]

Michael Cole.

[Pat McAfee]

Michael Cole. Michael colchan brother at WrestleMania.

[Triple H]

Hey, I want to thank all you guys for supporting me. I'm pretty proud because this year marks year number 28 of being a commentator at WrestleMania.

[Pat McAfee]

You should take a lot of pride in that. That's a record, obviously. And I'll tell you, you're also undefeated at WrestleMania.

[Triple H]

As are you.

[Pat McAfee]

Bingo.

[Triple H]

As asterisk. But you are.

[Pat McAfee]

Who else is here for this particular show at WWE World in Las Vegas?

[Triple H]

Michael Cole, ladies and gentlemen, one of my favorites of all time. Great defensive back in the NFL. You See him weekly or daily, actually, on the Pat McAfee Show. Please welcome Darius Butler, DBOT.

[Pat McAfee]

Oh, yeah. Oh, yeah. Big pop for Debot. He's taking the tractor. Another round was a part of an NXT run. A lot of people forget he was in there battling for me.

[Darius Butler]

Also WWE Superstar on WWE 2K24. Don't you ever forget it.

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah, that's right. You're right. He is WWE 2K24.

[Triple H]

Worst part of my life, having to voice those games.

[Darius Butler]

Did a great job. 28 years. Hey, congrats.

[Pat McAfee]

Congrats.

[Darius Butler]

That's awesome.

[Triple H]

We got some really special guests, though, for the table.

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah.

[Triple H]

Ladies and gentlemen, coming back and coming down from heaven to grace us with his presence for this show, none other than the hall of Famer, the bad guy, Razor Ramon.

[Darius Butler]

Okay, okay.

[Pat McAfee]

Are we sure that I don't think that's actually Razor, sir. There go Razor. They're saying Connor. Right. It's not how you do it, but I love what you did there, Razor. Hey, yo. You look like you're in great shape, brother.

[Razor Ramon]

Hey, Chico. Okay, Been working out. Got a survey for the people.

[Pat McAfee]

Okay.

[Razor Ramon]

How many people came to Vegas for.

[Pat McAfee]

The Pat McAfee Show.

[Razor Ramon]

That's another one for the bad guys, Pat.

[Triple H]

So we have another special guest. He's one of the most controversial superstars today. In fact, he'll be a part of the Triple Threat main event of WrestleMania Saturday. He is the second city saint.

[Pat McAfee]

CM Punk.

[Hulk Hogan]

What?

[Pat McAfee]

Pay tribute.

[Triple H]

Of course. These guys are paying tribute, too. To everyone.

[Pat McAfee]

That's right.

[Roman Reigns]

Jacked.

[Pat McAfee]

An immediate boo as this particular CM Punk showed his face. Big weekend for you, CM Punk. Big weekend. People love me, Pat. And Saturday night, when the wise man is in my corner and I win.

[Hulk Hogan]

The Triple Threat match, people are going.

[Michael Cole]

To love me even more.

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah, you're right. Main event, CM Punk. That's this weekend. And thank you for paying tribute. You. You look really good. Thank you. Hair just like him. Perfect. Yeah. Tape perfect. Who else? There's one more microphone. Michael Cole.

[Triple H]

Yeah. Perhaps one of, if the not the greatest performer in the history of WrestleMania. In fact, WrestleMania probably exists because of this man. Ladies and gentlemen, the immortal Hulk Hogan.

[Pat McAfee]

They're going. Hell, yeah.

[Hulk Hogan]

Hey, where are all my Hulkamaniacs, dude?

[Pat McAfee]

Right here.

[Hulk Hogan]

Right here.

[Pat McAfee]

Thank you.

[Hulk Hogan]

Come on, baby, let's go. It's mania season.

[Pat McAfee]

Hey, you too, dude. You Mark? Yeah, baby.

[Hulk Hogan]

I wasn't going to go right away. Right away, dude. Come on, brother. How you doing, Bang Rac?

[Triple H]

How you doing, Huckster?

[Hulk Hogan]

Doing damn good.

[Triple H]

Hey, it looks like you've been drinking a little too much of that real American beer.

[Hulk Hogan]

Well, I mean, yeah, it's the greatest American pills there. You'll find out there. It's hard not to have 6, 12, 18, 24 in a night. Cole, come on, brother.

[Pat McAfee]

How come these people are booing you out here? Is that Michael Cole getting booed?

[Hulk Hogan]

Baby, it sounds like Michael Cole's maybe getting booed. I don't know. Hey, listen, these marks come out here, they get all excited, you know, it's mayday season. I get it. Show me some goddamn respect, dude. Especially you, brother. I see you, brother. We'll get back to these people fast. Mayo season. And I'm a goat. So, you know, it's a great time coming back home.

[Pat McAfee]

Well, thank you for joining us, Legends All Stars. WWE fan. Darius J. Butler, WWE Superstar in there. Michael Cole. We'll leave with you in this thing. This weekend has the chance to be the most iconic weekend in the history of Las Vegas. For people that might be watching at home that don't fully understand why this convention center is packed out at 9am local in Las Vegas. Las Vegas, Nevada. 9am might as well be 2am, 3am, 4am, 5am in most cities here, they're packed out because wrestling is awesome. But what are they expecting out of this week? Anything.

[Triple H]

The weekend, you know, it starts today at WWE World smackdowns. Down the street at T Mobile, we have the kickoff show getting underway at 2:00 local, which Pat and I host. The hall of Fame tonight, where we celebrate the best in the industry. Triple H will go into the hall of Fame tonight. Pat and I have the honor of.

[Pat McAfee]

Hosting that Hell yeah.

[Triple H]

Countdown shows tomorrow. And of course, WrestleMania Saturday and WrestleMania Sunday. So many massive matches, including John Cena's final WrestleMania match versus Cody Rhodes on Sunday. If you're only a casual fan of sports entertainment, professional wrestling.

[Pat McAfee]

Still a lot of let's go, Cena. I think there's a lot of let's go, Cena's. Because I think the Cena fans potentially say, you know, what John Cena's been saying to us has been accurate. It's been right. Maybe we should be a little bit nicer to him. Ain't that right, Razor and Bo?

[Razor Ramon]

I mean, I don't see why not. These people have completely taken advantage of everything John Cena's done. I see a bunch of people out here, a bunch of ungrateful WWE fools who took for granted. Look at this guy in the big hat. That guy's a fool. Look at that Thing that guy reeks of. Hey, I don't care. And I don't appreciate what John Cena does.

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah. But I think the. Let's go, Cena was a lot louder than I thought it was going to be. I thought that was fully. Cena sucks because D. But I don't know if you know this. Michael Cole has been trying to piss on John Cena ever since John Cena said he hated the fans.

[Darius Butler]

And I hate that. I hate that coach. I don't. I don't think Cena's told one lie. And I think the fans deserve everything that they're getting from Cena. And I hope. You know. You know, I don't. Actually, I do. I hope he does ruin wrestling.

[Pat McAfee]

Like, what?

[Darius Butler]

Yeah, I hope he ruins.

[Pat McAfee]

I hope he ruins.

[Hulk Hogan]

Don't do these people, brother.

[Darius Butler]

I hope he ruins it. I'm gonna enjoy it.

[Pat McAfee]

Why I'm here.

[Darius Butler]

I'm gonna enjoy it because I respect John Cena. I respect everything he's done and I. I love you guys. Pissed him off thinking that was funny.

[Pat McAfee]

Was it?

[Darius Butler]

It was pissed off. So he finally turned after two and a half decades of pouring his heart and soul in his business.

[Pat McAfee]

It was funny when I said where. When you came out, it was funny. I laughed hard. I thought everybody thought it was funny. I thought you were providing us happiness in funny times. Then he was saying he was disrespected by it. Come on, John. Come on, John. This is your friend.

[Triple H]

I've known John Cena for 25 years, and the thing is, I will never go back on the fact that I believe he's the greatest of all time. He is the goat. Well, for so many different reasons, however.

[AJ Hawk]

Wow.

[Triple H]

Well, for John Cena to blame the fans. The fans have put millions and millions of dollars in his pocket, made him the star who is. He's earned it and turned their back on them.

[Pat McAfee]

You just did a greatest of all time convers. Ladies and gentlemen. Joining us now is a man who has been thrusted into the goat conversation since the first day he came into this industry. He's a former football player, but whenever he took over the wwe, he knew immediately this was his land. This was his world, this was his show, this was the company he would carry through the hardest time in the history of our industry. There's no fans, there's no tickets. What do we need? We need a hero. We need a savior. We need our tribal chiefs. Ladies and gentlemen, Roman Reign. Oh, yeah. A lot of ones to the sky at 9am in a convention center In Las Vegas for the original the official r tribal chief Roman reign. Good to be here, man. Thank you for joining us.

[Roman Reigns]

Thanks for having me. They're not gonna let us work, huh?

[Pat McAfee]

I know this sounds better than anything. I could sing. Not you, obviously. You could speak much better than this.

[Roman Reigns]

But for me, I sing like a bird. I got a beautiful voice.

[Pat McAfee]

I bet you do. I bet you do. Our travel chief, with that being said, congrats on everywhere you go, everything you do, everybody knowing who you are and everybody respecting what you do. This whole place showed up here this morning to do one thing and one thing alone.

[Roman Reigns]

Acknowledge me. There we go. It's early. I don't do it this early in the morning.

[Hulk Hogan]

So I forgot.

[Roman Reigns]

I forgot to get that out of the way. Sorry. My bad, guys.

[Pat McAfee]

That's a morning hit. They did want to acknowledge you. Congrats on everything. Obviously this weekend you're not a champion and it's not for a title, but it feels like it's for something much bigger than any gold plated belt that you could wear on your shoulder or around your waist. What are your thoughts going into this triple threat with the three biggest names of an era battling in the main event of Wrestlemania.

[Roman Reigns]

I want the power back. I want it all back. I want that top spot back. I'm so tired of hearing Cody Rhodes running around here talking about. About quarterback one. What are we even talking about? There's only one quarter. It's a tribal chief. I want to be that number one contender. I want a title. I don't. I'm not trying to be. And I. I get it. I love that you love me. But I don't want to be a legend. I'm not trying to be a hall of famer right now. I'm trying to. I'm trying to be in the mix. I'm trying to hold it down. I'm trying to take the top spot and hold the power by its throat.

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah. And I think I was very lucky to be a part of the run where you had the title in the business by the threat.

[Roman Reigns]

Everybody was lucky.

[Pat McAfee]

It was great time. It was great times billion dollar deals. Look at Cole's.

[Roman Reigns]

She hadn't even spent that money yet.

[Pat McAfee]

Exactly.

[Roman Reigns]

Went straight to investments. Yeah.

[Hulk Hogan]

Yeah.

[Roman Reigns]

You don't even need it yet.

[Pat McAfee]

Life was very good with you at the top. How many days was he champion over?

[Triple H]

1300 days as change.

[Roman Reigns]

You don't even know the exact 1316.

[Pat McAfee]

Too many.

[Roman Reigns]

That was a test. That was a test. He passed.

[Triple H]

He passed 1316. But this to me Is the biggest statistic when it comes to Roman Reigns. When he walks into the ring tomorrow night in the main event at WrestleMania Saturday, it will be the 10th time in his career that Roman Reigns will main event WrestleMania. No one, no one has ever done that.

[Pat McAfee]

Okay, so let's talk about that. I think at the beginning of your career, that type of stat that is now 10. A lot of these people thought this guy's getting forced into this position. Position. This guy's getting forced into this position. I think at the beginning of your run that's how they felt. Not me, travel chief. I always. Okay, I just want to let you know, always before you were even doing this.

[AJ Hawk]

Yeah, yeah.

[Pat McAfee]

You know when you, you know, you had the whole vet, the whole thing.

[Roman Reigns]

We missed that.

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah, yeah, yeah. Eat better.

[Roman Reigns]

It could have been a great week if we had that vest on.

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah, now we gotta shredded up. Now we gotta be shredded up.

[Triple H]

Hey, nice magazine shoot by the way.

[Hulk Hogan]

Yeah.

[Pat McAfee]

You look great.

[Hulk Hogan]

Loved him.

[Pat McAfee]

You look great. Awesome.

[AJ Hawk]

Just doing a little art.

[Hulk Hogan]

The interview is great too, too.

[Roman Reigns]

You can't pull that off though.

[Hulk Hogan]

I loved it, Robin. I absolutely love it.

[Roman Reigns]

Can we get more clothes on him? Can we put another jacket on for you?

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah. Robe and a jacket on him. But at the beginning of your career you were in main events and a lot of these people, they were die hard wrestling fans who love the business. Thought maybe you weren't the right guy for it. What do you think about the amount of experience you got so earlier in your career in WWE and how it's helped you now because you have been in the big spots since you got here, if I'm not mistaken. Well deserved, well earned. But in the fans eyes, maybe forced early, but what does that do for you now long term, you think as a professional wrestler, a goat?

[Roman Reigns]

Well, we've always had fans like you. We've always had supporters, people on my side. So it wasn't always just one sided. You know, the negativity is always going to be the loudest. So that's always what's heard. But we've always sold merch. We've always held it down. Ever since single night, I've treated every single show as if it's WrestleMania. So that's why I think I'm held in that regard, is because I take it that seriously and I perform on that level. But I did learn being in the heat, being the fire. It makes you learn when you're taking Ls, you either categorize them as losses or you're learning from them. They're learning lessons. And that's what I did over the years is just compile, you know, this Rolodex and just take down all this info and just, you know, all the experience, remember everything, learn from it. And then I got better.

[Pat McAfee]

Okay, so let's talk about it. Like a quarterback who plays a long time, he sees a lot of the defenses. So like, we talked to Aaron Rodgers obviously on a regular basis. Interesting. He's got an interesting decision to make in his life. But he'll talk. When he talks ball, he'll say that he played like, let's say It's a week 11 game last season, 2024. He'll say, I saw a defensive coverage that they tried to show me in 2011. And you're like, he'll. His recall will literally be in the moment, having to adjust and change for you with all the different matches you've been. What are you drawing from in a triple threat match? Right? Because I mean, that is. You don't even have to be involved to lose this thing. Obviously those two can attack you, which chances, you know, chances are that they do. But the way you three hate each other as a whole could be all chaos. I don't know who's going to team up with who, but what are you taking into the match? What is the strategy? Is there a strategy that you've been able to play use before or, or how do you kind of feel going in?

[Roman Reigns]

I'm just going to do it like my daddy used to do and just smash people, man. Just go in there and wreck everybody.

[Pat McAfee]

Hell, yeah. Smash them.

[Roman Reigns]

I'm. Yeah, yeah. I'm better rested, I'm in better shape. I'm bigger, I'm stronger, I'm faster than both those dudes. I'm going to go in and I'm going to shut it down asap.

[Pat McAfee]

Are we going to edge Bryan Danielson right away?

[Roman Reigns]

Just get them, stack them. Oh, God.

[Pat McAfee]

You remember, I forgot about. Yeah, we smash them. We stack them two times. Times, dog.

[Roman Reigns]

But what I want to. I did want to touch on because you gave me kind of two questions there. You know, you're a little scattered on that guy there, but you talk about Aaron Rodgers and he's able to see the defense. I'm able to go into an arena or into like the public like this and I can hear them and then I can feel them. That's what we pro wrestlers do. That's what a sports entertainers do is it's not about seeing the defense. We can feel what the audience Audience is doing. And then you can become connected with them. And then that's how you take all that experience and all that past. You know, all those learning lessons. I had like, oh, I heard this before. Oh, I know what to do now. You know what I mean? Yeah, that kind of tying into that.

[Pat McAfee]

Okay. I like the average. That's a great.

[Roman Reigns]

Maybe give you a little.

[Pat McAfee]

You know, I think that was like a super genius tie in there. Actually. D Bud has a question for you.

[Darius Butler]

Yeah, I got a question. So going back, and obviously, you know, the wrestling is in your blood, so you've seen it your whole life. But what was that first moment? Obviously you played football as well. What was that WrestleMania moment? You talked about treating every match like mania, but it's nothing like, this is only my second one in person. But what was your first moment as a kid that you remember that stands out that you like. Okay, I can't wait to be in that position.

[Roman Reigns]

It was the WrestleMania here. Way back in the day. Me and. Me and the twins were little. We were up in their dad Rikishi's den watching the show, and just. It was outside. It was. I don't know, it being. And daytime. It put a different, like, vibe and a different energy on it. And it just felt so big. We had Yokozuna in the main event. Their dad Rikishi, was that. I believe the head shrinkers back in the day. I'm not a historian here. It was a long time ago, but yeah, just to have that representation, you know what I mean? That's what was cool for me. And that's one of those moments that takes me back to my childhood and then also triggers where like, oh, man, I. I think I could do that too. I think I can do what my family's doing.

[Pat McAfee]

That'd be crazy if you did a 23andMe and it's just.

[Darius Butler]

Whoa, whoa.

[Pat McAfee]

Well, yeah, actually, don't. Whatever. You know, one of those. One of those ones where they find out your family to get connected. Yours was just literally that tree that they shared last year at rest.

[Roman Reigns]

They try to clone our DNA. We don't want to do that.

[Pat McAfee]

Trying to get.

[Roman Reigns]

They trying to get the data, you know, on the goods here. We don't want to do that.

[Triple H]

So Roman, you know, when you came back during the COVID era as a different Roman reigns the tribal chief, the bloodline. When you head into WrestleMania tomorrow night in the main event, for the first time in like five years, you're going to be alone. You're going to walk down that aisle alone, there's no bloodline.

[Pat McAfee]

I'm there.

[Triple H]

And perhaps more importantly, I'll meet you out there. Perhaps more importantly, there's no Paul Heymon Monday night. You would ask him for an apology. It never happened because it was interrupted. Tell us when Paul Heyman. Cat. Well, Punk cashed in the favor to have Heyman in his corner tomorrow night. What did that do to you mentally, emotionally, personally?

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah, what was going on on Monday when CM Punk was smooching up on Paul when you showed up? Did you see that? He's smooching up on right here.

[Roman Reigns]

Yeah, that's not really my style, but 8 either.

[Hulk Hogan]

Well said, dude.

[Roman Reigns]

It's. It's almost like deja vu, man. I feel like this has happened countless times, and it's one of those deals, you know, It's. Why do I keep trusting people? Why do I keep giving people a chance? And that's the thing everybody thinks a helping hand is. You know, it's like this. Sometimes it's gonna smack the out of you. You know what I mean? And sometimes it's not nice. Sometimes people don't understand how that helps. Helping hand's gonna come, and then also they don't understand what the helping hand is going through. So for them to all just be the way they were, to be able to just betray me and leave me where I stand.

[Triple H]

But this is Paul.

[Hulk Hogan]

Roman.

[Triple H]

This is a guy who's been with you through everything. He's been your counsel. He's been a wise man, and then all of a sudden, it's not there. In one of the biggest matches of your career tomorrow night.

[Pat McAfee]

Paul needs one of these. Revan.

[Hulk Hogan]

Please, dude.

[Triple H]

I mean, you gotta be her.

[Pat McAfee]

Paul's known you since you're a child. I know.

[Roman Reigns]

Who's telling this guy to ask the questions here? What, do you want me to get emotional?

[AJ Hawk]

What, do you want me to cry?

[Pat McAfee]

That's what you want on WrestleMania?

[Roman Reigns]

Is that what you want? You want me to come up here and boohoo about the wise man? The wise man made his choice.

[Darius Butler]

Yeah.

[Roman Reigns]

You understand me? These people can make their choice. Voice. It doesn't matter to me. I'm going to WrestleMania night one on Saturday. I'm whooping everybody's ass. And if the wise man wants to get in the ring, too, he can get it, too.

[Pat McAfee]

So keep touching on emotional stuff. Keep pulling these triggers, and they're gonna chant for other reasons. You understand? Hey, Cole, stop being soft. I know you don't have a lot of time. I know we're wasting it with this guy. Now with that being said, my nutrition is back there.

[Roman Reigns]

He's like, man, the cortisol is going. I'm changing the look right now.

[Pat McAfee]

Okay, just real quick. We're expect. I can't.

[Roman Reigns]

I think he pissed himself.

[Pat McAfee]

Oh, PP loose. Cole. I love that.

[Roman Reigns]

Oh, PP bag.

[Pat McAfee]

Oh, boo bag.

[Roman Reigns]

PP bag.

[Michael Cole]

Boy.

[Triple H]

And I'm glad I showed up today.

[Pat McAfee]

Cole, great to have you here. Thank you for being a great. In the history of the business, the Paul Heyman stuff, he's done you since you were a kid. Obviously, he's talked about that. You and he have obviously done great blockbuster numbers. I think a lot of people are going to potentially miss the business of you two being together. Especially when he was going to hand you that microphone the other day and you just want grabbed your own. I. I thought that was cool moment between Paul Heyman and you. He decided to ruin that. What does this mean going forward? Is there a potential? Is there a potential? And it's over for Paul. What. What is in your mind how you deal with this after this match? I guess. Have you even thought about that?

[Roman Reigns]

I'm doing what any man with his back against the wall would do. I'm gonna go out there and show that I'm useful. I'm gonna go out there and make myself the number one contender and then put myself in line for the power. And then once I get the key to the kingdom, we'll see what everybody's got to say.

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah.

[Roman Reigns]

You know what I'm saying?

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah. Well, a great man once said to me, and I. I assume it was back in the day, every once in a while, the king has got to roll a head down the hill to remind the people at the bottom of the hill that the King is still the king. Excited to see what you do when you get back on top. With that being said, Razor Ramon has a question for you. Roman Reigns Roman.

[Razor Ramon]

I'd like to acknowledge you first.

[Pat McAfee]

Roman.

[Razor Ramon]

Roman Reigns.

[Pat McAfee]

Roman. Roman Reigns.

[Hulk Hogan]

Roman Reign.

[Razor Ramon]

Try to boo me.

[Pat McAfee]

Oh, you did it. Pretty good work.

[Roman Reigns]

We did that. We did that.

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah. We'll turn them.

[Hulk Hogan]

You did that.

[Pat McAfee]

Tribal. Chief.

[Razor Ramon]

I did nothing. One of my favorite parts from your documentary was when, you know, Jimmy and Jay were talking about you and you were talking about them. What's it mean as well for, you know, Jay to have that opportunity to go get a World Heavyweight Championship, obviously, same night as you, so he can't really lock in on it till later on. But are you excited for that opportunity for him?

[Roman Reigns]

I can't even put it in words, you know, it's not easy being a 20 when I'm raising them, and I've watched them their whole lives compete, and I've competed with them, you know? And Jay, our entire lives has been a little bit of the. The run. You know what I mean? If there was one. If there was one a little bit 10% down, it. It was always. Jim has always been kind of that guy, too. So to see Jay be able to break through these barriers, to see him be able to push to the ceiling and then also understand, like, now he understands me a little better. You know, you talk to him after. After Saturday, you talk to him after this weekend, and he's going to understand the elevation a little better. He probably already does. I'm sure. He's been busy as hell this whole week, and I'm just so proud of him. Obviously, we have family's family, man. We're going to have some disagreeances. We're going to have, you know, we're going to butt heads in here and there, but at the end of the day, I want my family healthy, and I want them here a long time being very successful, and that's exactly what he's doing. So.

[Michael Cole]

Man.

[Roman Reigns]

Yeah.

[Triple H]

How dare you ask an emotional question.

[Hulk Hogan]

That one actually landed. Cole.

[Pat McAfee]

Shut up. Cole. It was like.

[Roman Reigns]

I don't know if it was like a twitch that just almost backhanded on that.

[Pat McAfee]

I know that you've been waiting on this probably since you walked out here and realized this was happening. Hulkster has a question for you, Ro.

[Hulk Hogan]

First and foremost, I'd like to say, dude, it's. It's nice to be sitting up here with the goat. Don't mind these marks, okay? They don't know what I've done for the business. Obviously you do, so I respect that, brother. First and foremost, what I'd like to say. I love the Vanity Fair piece. Love the Vanity Fair piece, okay? So let's just get that out of the way. One thing I do want to ask you about, though, dude, what's the deal with Seth Rollins? This guy, I mean, he. He's obsessed with you coming back like a scored lover. I know a thing or two about those brothers. So my question would be, I guess, whose ass are you looking forward to kicking more? Is it CM Punk or is it Rollins? Because I feel like Rollins. You. You really do. You just got to disbelieve to this guy. Just get him the hell out of here, dude.

[Roman Reigns]

I agree, man. He. He's what I call a Lemon. He's Mr. Byers remorse. Yeah. We just have such a long history, and I. I would be, you know, disingenuous if I didn't talk about that history, and I am proud of that history, and I did learn a lot from, you know, that relationship and that development, but it's just one of those situations where there's just not enough room for the both of us. There's not enough money, there's not enough success, you know, we can't have it all, you know? And that's the position that he's in because I took it and he's bitter about it, and he's been chasing me and chasing me and talking about chasing. I mean, see?

[Hulk Hogan]

Let him finish, Cole. Jesus Christ.

[Roman Reigns]

Whoa, whoa.

[Pat McAfee]

Hey. It's about to be poop in those pants too.

[Roman Reigns]

I'm about to get warmed up for mania today, I'm telling you. Hey, we could snap this thing. I think definitely you could. But, yeah, punk is just one of those guys who. How do you even get here?

[Hulk Hogan]

I agree, dude.

[Roman Reigns]

You know what I'm saying? If the tribal chief didn't go and make this thing beautiful, make it heavenly, make the promised land what it is, he would have never wanted to come back here. So if anything, like I said, he should be thanking me, acknowledging me. But he is one of those guys that I just don't really care about. He's in. He's in the. You know what I mean? He's in the crosshairs at this point, so he's gonna get it, too. And this whole thing with the wise man is just made it even deeper that I don't like and I don't really want to talk about it. But Seth, because of the. The relationship and the brotherhood in the past, there are redeeming qualities about him. But at the end of the day, he's a piece of trash, too.

[Pat McAfee]

Whoa. Okay. Seth freaking Rollins says he's a visionary. He is a revolutionary. He is. That was light.

[Roman Reigns]

That was real light.

[AJ Hawk]

That felt light.

[Pat McAfee]

That was a bad setup by me.

[Hulk Hogan]

That was light. Dude. I know a pop when I hear one. That's light. Okay. Nothing like Roman's getting out there. There.

[Pat McAfee]

What does it look like from now until match time? I assume because I. I've been watching the workouts. I've seen that Paul Heyman's been blowing up your phone. So many. No, no. 25 missed calls. Yesterday, I saw on your Instagram. Also saw you going through some workouts. What does it look like from now until match time for you?

[Roman Reigns]

We just try to lock in and keep the process the exact same. Nothing changes. We try to keep the timing the same. The meals, you know, have to stay scattered throughout, throughout the day. The cardio's got to stay in the training's got to stay in the recovery. So we brought the whole team. We made, you know, South Florida. We brought it to Vegas.

[Pat McAfee]

And you brought your training camp here?

[Roman Reigns]

Pretty much, yeah.

[Pat McAfee]

Okay. Okay. I don't want to get too deep. Do we rent a house out here? They got massive homes out here.

[Roman Reigns]

Oh, I can't give that away because I want. I don't want to give my location away. But it's so nice if I wish I could plug it too, because it's. It's badass.

[Pat McAfee]

Okay.

[Roman Reigns]

So my kids are running around crazy. Crazy.

[Pat McAfee]

Yes. So these houses out here are absurd. The houses are crazy out here. Conor McGregor, I think when he had his first fight over here, running a house over here, Brian's entire fight camp over. And it was like this 25, 000 square foot had the training team in one part of the gym and the other side, the nutritionist. You're doing, you're. You're treating this as main event, big time fight. We're moving fight camp from South Florida to Las Vegas.

[Roman Reigns]

It's a multi million dollar operation here. We're not messing around. You know what I mean? Like, this isn't just old school. We're going to make town Saturdays. We don't do that no more. This is, this is what it's all about. This is Wrestlemania. You do not cut any corners. You can't be cheap. You got to make it happen.

[Pat McAfee]

Filling up a Legion stadium. Did you see that?

[Roman Reigns]

I'm saying, I catch this dub. Everything's paid for for the next five years or so. So we're good.

[Pat McAfee]

You're welcome, Everybody. You're welcome. WWE 1, did you. I saw you hold the Raiders jersey up and ask them to acknowledge you.

[Roman Reigns]

I saw some, A lot of people not happy.

[Pat McAfee]

Saw some Niner gang and I stayed true.

[Roman Reigns]

I stayed true. Keep, keep eye on all the content. You got to read every line, even the parenthesis. You know what I'm saying? You got to read it all. You got to take it all in. But I acknowledge the Niners and Niner gang, but at the end of the day, you got to show respect to the host.

[AJ Hawk]

I'm from.

[Roman Reigns]

I was born and raised in the South. We got Southern high hospitality. We show respect, you know, that's very kind sir. That type of stuff, you know?

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah. I didn't even think about how you Were just trying to show the Raiders some respect because.

[Roman Reigns]

Oh, city man.

[Pat McAfee]

They were acknowledging their tribal chief.

[Roman Reigns]

It appeared the tribal chief is global. We have a home, you know, town operation pretty much in every city here, Hometown. Right.

[Pat McAfee]

You know, these people are from here. I don't think a lot of people.

[Roman Reigns]

Traveled into Vegas, but that just made them. This is ours now.

[Hulk Hogan]

This is all.

[Pat McAfee]

It's the island of relevancy. That's what you do, brother. You bring it. So all the things that Paul said am I allowed to mention during the match or are we just eliminating all of Paul Heyman diction from your match?

[Triple H]

You're asking him for permission to do your commentary?

[Pat McAfee]

Shut up, Cole.

[Darius Butler]

Tribal chief.

[Razor Ramon]

Enough out of you.

[Roman Reigns]

When are you going to ask?

[Triple H]

I do have a question, but.

[Pat McAfee]

Go ahead, Cole.

[Triple H]

I want to know who's going to carry the ula fala.

[Hulk Hogan]

Well, well.

[Triple H]

To the ring.

[Pat McAfee]

We know who that is.

[Razor Ramon]

It's got a new OTC.

[Hulk Hogan]

That one.

[AJ Hawk]

Very special.

[Hulk Hogan]

Bad as well.

[Razor Ramon]

Well, 47, if you will.

[Roman Reigns]

I don't know. That's the thing. I haven't had to do this before. So there's going to be a few things that we got to figure out out there on the fly. You know, I know you're pretty pre rehearsed and you like to look at your stuff and be prepared, but I like to go out there and let my instincts take over. Kind of like the early question about all that experience I got on the job, you know what I mean? I like to go out there and just let it rip. I don't sit there and think about all these stupid things like you all the time, you know?

[Triple H]

Yeah, but I need to tell stories and I need to tell what's going on.

[Roman Reigns]

Well, you know what? You want me to do your job too or what?

[Pat McAfee]

You have been doing a lot of people's job.

[Roman Reigns]

How much does he make you tack it on? How much I'm making.

[Pat McAfee]

Boom.

[Roman Reigns]

We got a deal. Here we go.

[Pat McAfee]

Ladies and gentlemen, a man who is about to catapult the WWE to newer heights somehow, maybe even all the way to space. Wow.

[Roman Reigns]

We're doing that at least. So we're doing that these days.

[Pat McAfee]

That's what I heard.

[Hulk Hogan]

Yes, we are, brother. Don't sweet believe it.

[Pat McAfee]

No, we're not. No, we're not. We got a flat earther over here.

[Hulk Hogan]

Pretty damn close.

[Pat McAfee]

You've never been to the moon either.

[Razor Ramon]

Roman don't buy in tribal chief.

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah. Anyways, a man who is going to put this company on his back yet again like he's done since he got here. Our tribal chief and winner of Saturday night's main event at WrestleMania, Roman Reign.

[Hulk Hogan]

Hey.

[Pat McAfee]

Thank you for coming.

[Roman Reigns]

My pleasure.

[Pat McAfee]

Dude. Hey, brother. What a specimen. Ladies and gentlemen, AJ Hawk has joined us up here.

[Hulk Hogan]

Hogger. Hey, buddy.

[Pat McAfee]

Buddy. AJ, also in WWE 2K24. You can have him go on a championship run. AJ, what were your thoughts on what our tribal chief just did out here? Loved how calm, comfortable, and confident he is. Also loved how much he bullied Michael Cole. Yeah, he did bully on Michael Cole, which it was fun to see. But Cole, you get it. I mean, you've been around forever. You're a legend. I mean, Roman Reigns, he's just class all around. The guy's unbelievable stuff, sitting here next to Razor in the Hulkster. But watching him backstage, I do like the energy they're bringing to this place. What's your problem? These some of my idols. I'm sitting next to it. It's kind of like a pinch me moment. It's very surreal. Good to meet you, Mark.

[Hulk Hogan]

Good to meet you.

[Pat McAfee]

His name's AJ. Okay. Hazer D Buch. Whenever you think about WrestleMania weekend, it's obviously compared to super bowl weekend. What would this slight differences be in your eyes from WWE's WrestleMania in the NFL's Super bowl, from the last couple years that we have experienced?

[Darius Butler]

I think the biggest difference is with the super bowl, football in general in it's. It's more domestic. It's more, you know, American, I guess, wwe. Like, I was flying. I didn't get a chance to fly with you boys. I flew up from Philly, and it was people from all over the world on that plane. People all different, you know, different people, different creeds, different backgrounds, different age groups. And it's generational. It was passed down family all the way through the bloodline. So, man, it's awesome to be around. You can feel it. The energy is palpable wherever you go in Vegas. This is the perfect place to have.

[Pat McAfee]

There's shows everywhere.

[Roman Reigns]

Yes.

[Pat McAfee]

Independent wrestling matches happening around town. There is meet and greets happening everywhere. This place is packed out with things throughout the entire day. There's a show kicking off tonight at 10pm Local. That's 1am Eastern time, which is the hall of Fame that Michael Cole and I will be hosting. Cole. I can't wait for it. We got the NHL playoffs coming up. Okay. We got the NBA playoffs coming up. Two playing games tonight, right? We have.

[Razor Ramon]

Yeah, yeah, we got two. We got Heat at Hawks and Mavs.

[Pat McAfee]

At Griffin, Grizzlies okay, so Mavs go on to win. That'd be a great story for Nico and for Dev, for Dallas. And then we need, we need Jaw to keep going. Hopefully he's healthy with that ankle, but that's happening. Baseball is taking place, right, Hulkster?

[Hulk Hogan]

Yeah, absolutely. We got a bunch of baseball games all over the United States right now. All the Hulkamaniacs and Hulkamaniacs, they know about that. A lot of those though, Pat, they're good. I'll tell you what, the time change is really messing with me on those. You're used to seeing all night games. We got a lot of 1pm baseball games, 4pm baseball games, but those are going on as well.

[Pat McAfee]

Okay, so the NHL, the NBA and the MLB are all happening. But the only conversation of the weekend everywhere will be what happens at WrestleMania. Cole, you've been here for 28 years. Has it always been like this? Was there a moment when it became the topic of discussion everywhere?

[Triple H]

WrestleMania has always been huge, but not to the extent of what we've seen the last couple of years. I mean, two night show, over 60,000 both Saturday and Sunday night at the stadium, Allegiant Stadium that hosts the Raiders and then events like this, and you mentioned it before, for these great fans to show up at 9:00 in the morning on Las Vegas to watch this. And most of these fans are going to go to the kickoff show. They're going to go to smackdown, they're going to go to the hall of Fame tonight. This is like an 18 hour day for everybody. We're not even into WrestleMania yet, so this is a pretty great weekend.

[Pat McAfee]

Speaking of the weekend, is there any golf happening? No Golf. Golf.

[Razor Ramon]

There is golf.

[Hulk Hogan]

There is golf. Heritage, rbc.

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah, Heritage is happening this weekend. Obviously we'll watch that. This entirety.

[Razor Ramon]

JT shot of 61 yesterday, I believe.

[Hulk Hogan]

Scotty also went low, dude.

[Pat McAfee]

Really? Scotty Scheffler's about to win the entirety. What about college ball? Is there anything happening in college ball? A.J. hawk, I mean, I don't know what. Nico is with UCLA now. There's transfer quarterbacks all over the place. Spring ball is happening and there's 4,000 guys in the transfer portal. D. But I don't know, getting signed or not, I think actually might be 6,000 something. D2 and D3 as well.

[Razor Ramon]

And UNC Lambo and Belichick got their quarterback.

[Pat McAfee]

Oh yes. South Alabama quarterback transfers over to North Carolina. So Bill Belichick and Michael Lombardi have their quarterback that they were looking for. Allegedly. Now it's being reported across the bottom line, which is fascinating in, in the world that we live in. They were giving like his contract out like $2 million a year. They said like his contract was at the bottom. Thank you, sir. And whenever like that is being reported, do we know that's true or is that just what's allegedly true for what the college contracts are?

[Darius Butler]

I don't, I don't think we have like confirmed on a lot of these numbers, but we expected him to not get anywhere close to what he wanted. And then you heard the stories about.

[Pat McAfee]

Nico now South Alabama quarterback that went to North Carolina. He, they said 2 million. The Nico one has been everywhere from a million to 175 to less than a million. It's like these numbers are all being reported. I don't know if anybody knows what's real or what's not real. It's pretty interesting. Yeah.

[Razor Ramon]

Even like the Carson Beck one. I remember when Carson Beck signed, it was a four million dollar deal and that's what everyone was talking about. But it's hard to imagine, you know, the way everything went, that Miami would pay one guy $4 million. Especially with what happened with Carson Beck. He got hurt at the end of the season. It's not as if, you know, they went on a deep run. They, they had their backup playing in the playoffs.

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah, I, I don't. They're reporting it though, as if it is the. I don't. It's interesting.

[Darius Butler]

Did you hear Fran Brown of the Syracuse talk about the receiver? I guess wasn't 2 million.

[Pat McAfee]

I think we actually had Foxy. Do we have the Fran Brown clip?

[Darius Butler]

He might be my new favorite coach.

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah, this, this is, this basically explains the nil in a hole. Here's coach Fran Brown.

[Hulk Hogan]

With all due respect to everybody in.

[Darius Butler]

The country, to every wide receiver, to.

[Pat McAfee]

Everybody that's doing all this stuff, like.

[Darius Butler]

You going to make 2 million at wide receiver. That's the little homie over at Ohio State.

[Michael Cole]

Ain't nobody else making that money giving.

[Pat McAfee]

The wide receiver $2 million man in college.

[Hulk Hogan]

Nah, that ain't me. I ain't doing that.

[Darius Butler]

I can't do unless they tell me that we get a chance to have Travis Hunter.

[Michael Cole]

He can come back to college and.

[Darius Butler]

He can come here and play Forest.

[Pat McAfee]

And he gonna get some of my check.

[AJ Hawk]

But they ain't paying nobody 2,000 this year. Not, not, not to me.

[Pat McAfee]

Two million, whatever.

[AJ Hawk]

I just say, yeah, we ain't getting nobody out.

[Pat McAfee]

That's hilarious to. Coaches are trying to set the kind of comps right now in this salary cap publicly. But until there's actually rules, it's going to continue to be absolute chaos. It's going to continue to raise hell. Speaking of, ladies and gentlemen.

[Triple H]

It'S early.

[Pat McAfee]

It's early. The gun. The man who alongside others in the Attitude era, but in a big way, put this business on his back and carried it to levels that nobody in the history of earth could think of for the wwe. A man, because of his bald head and his big brain inside of it and his jean shorts and his ability to. To speak to the common man, made the WWE the most famous thing on earth. Ladies and gentlemen, hero icon, Stone Cold Steve.

[AJ Hawk]

All right, can I hear everybody?

[Pat McAfee]

Hello, Steve, can you hear me?

[AJ Hawk]

Oh, yeah, it's good to be here. I grew up watching your show on tv. Are we gonna do that today?

[Pat McAfee]

I had a chance to see you first time meet you. Grew up watching you. I've told you this personally, I'll say this publicly with you around. I grew up in a blue collar community. I grew up with parents that hated authority. I grew up in a town that loved to drink beer. I grew up in a town that stone Cold Steve Austin influenced every single Monday night. You are the hero, the legend in my eyes. And I would like to let you know, thank you for coming on the show today and thank you for being so kind whenever I get a chance to chat with you. I remember we were in Dallas day before and I got a chance to meet you. It was one of the coolest moments of my life. And I said, I can't wait to be in the building when the glass breaks and this place goes absolutely apeshit. First time ever in Dallas. And you said, well, I hope you need to know for the rest of your fucking life, anywhere you go, give me a hell yeah.

[Roman Reigns]

Hell yeah.

[Hulk Hogan]

Forever.

[Pat McAfee]

Thank you for what you've done for our life.

[AJ Hawk]

I appreciate that. It sounds like you grew up in a hell of a town. And on that same note, man, you saying, hey, thank you. Me, hey, thank you guys. You try to give it back. These are the greatest fans in the world, you know that?

[Pat McAfee]

Absolutely.

[AJ Hawk]

God dang it. I got telling me, thank you. Appreciate you guys so much. You know, God dang pat, it's been a while since I've been around. Last time time we saw each other was Dallas at WrestleMania, what, 30, 38? But it's been a minute.

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah, it has.

[AJ Hawk]

Like every time you come back to something like this in the world of wwe, you just wonder, hey, will those fans still remember? And hell they never forget. And hell, I was in the hotel the other day and got these kids 6, 8, 10 years old and they got no business, you know, even knowing about Stone Cold Steve Austin. I left the ring in 2000, 2003, but it's like I never left. So it's just great to be remembered. It's great to be here in such a positive universe.

[Pat McAfee]

You've earned it. You've earned it with everything that you did for the company. And every time you come back we all get excited and you heard them chanting one more match or one last match. You had one a couple years ago in Dallas with Kevin Owens, obviously. And I think all of us were impressed by the amount of shit that you did in that match. I don't think anybody was expecting that much then. There's been room, rumors, basically every single big ble. Hey, Steve Austin. Steve Austin. Steve Austin. Because of how popular you are, everybody wants that to happen. How much do you think about that at this stage of life? You're in great shape. I know you're doing four wheeling at a very high level. How much do you think about wrestling still? And do you ever get in there and you know, see if the old ass could take another, you know, another drop down Stunner?

[AJ Hawk]

No, you know, I don't think about anything like that. I've kind of moved on down the road road. And don't get me wrong, the competitive side of me, which kind of transfers into the racing that I'm doing now that you spoke of, you know, I, I want to be the best at everything that I do. And you know, you still go back and you watch these guys on and the gals on in the ring, in the WWE and you think, hey man, could have gave, I could have gave Kevin Owens a little bit more than what I had. And sometimes you think about it. But hey man, I think the, the time time right now for the people in the ring, it's for the younger generation, that's for the, the young men and women that are out there on the road. I leave it to them and they've taken it to a great place. The business has grown to something that I never would have imagined. So I, you know, my days of, don't get me wrong, I can still whip some ass, but I'm not looking to get back in the ring at any time in the future.

[Hulk Hogan]

Why?

[AJ Hawk]

Because these young cats need something to shoot for. Stone Cold don't. To beat nobody's ass anymore. And that's the bottom line because I sense it all.

[Pat McAfee]

Still got it. Now, you. You mentioned the young cats, and you mentioned the current state of the business, being in a place. Do you follow? And what are your thoughts on the current state of the business? Because there's always. I think Triple H just did an interview talking about it. In basketball, there's a lot of conversation about the older generation versus younger generation. Football. Same exact thing. Older wrestlers viewing younger wrestlers. You goat wrestler, viewing the modern, you know, kind of generation of wrestling. What are your thoughts on the state of where the WWE is right now?

[AJ Hawk]

And as far as I could see, you know, follow more on IG and stuff like that. I don't watch a whole lot of tv, but God dang, the business is cooking, the houses are full, the fans are excited. The talent has taken the game to a level. It's just. It's like everything. The evolution of sports, shoot sports. But wrestling has done the same. It just keeps getting, you know, faster. The kids these days are better athletes than we were back in the day. So I just think that they're doing.

[Pat McAfee]

I don't know.

[Hulk Hogan]

They weren't, dude.

[AJ Hawk]

Well, you know, that's something I got to chip out there because, you know, walking around out there with a couple of knee braces, you know, I did pretty damn well.

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah, but think about their bodies with six, right?

[Hulk Hogan]

7, 1 8, 1 12, 24, 1.

[Pat McAfee]

30, 1, 42 beers in their mouth and in their system while having to operate none of these hangovers for three weeks nowadays, as opposed to working the next day. You're a different type of athlete, brother. I think you need to understand that.

[AJ Hawk]

Man, life on the road was so good back. Back in the day. I take a story to tell these people out here. It was WrestleMania in Dallas a couple years ago, and I went out there and had that match and then came back. And, you know, Brock Lesnar and I are pretty good friends. We never speak, but we're really good friends. And we had wanted to have a drink, you know, after the show, and no one's ever heard this story. So I had a bottle of Maker's Mark from Jerry Jones's suite up there at AT&T Stadium. And it was myself, brock Lesnar, Pat McAfee, and Larry Heck, the trainer. And we had a fifth a maker's mark. This is just kind of what the business is about and what it should be. And we all started around. We were pouring that Maker's Mark whiskey in those little plastic cups, and we said, I'll piss on that. We just started passing that bottle around, and less than 60 minutes later, that whole fifth of whiskey was gone, and everybody was buzzed and. And God dang. What? What? That's. That's the brotherhood of what the business is all about. So that's what I want these young cats to understand. It's going out there, working your ass off and having a good time and entertaining the people. But it's a brotherhood.

[Pat McAfee]

It's a locker room.

[AJ Hawk]

It's a locker room, locker room.

[Pat McAfee]

You know, you need them in. Me being invited into that room. I don't know if you've heard my side of that story. So, yes, you and Brock are going to have drinks in a locker room room. Larry Heck, who is a dog in the medical. Sports, medical, whatever. I don't even call him a doctor one day. I'm not a doctor. Don't say that.

[Triple H]

Trainer.

[Pat McAfee]

Trainer, whatever it is. Yeah, Larry's been around a long, long time. Larry's great. So I get a text like, hey, come. Come to the locker room, or whatever it was. I was like, you got it. So I come walking in, I open the door, and I see you and Brock sitting there, and I was like, oh, I feel like this is a big moment in wrestling history. I feel like it's actually was. You two hadn't talked, right? A lot at that point. That was, like, one of the first real times. So I walk in, and I almost do, like, the Homer Simpson, okay, I'm gonna get the out of here. Instead, I stuck around, and the storytelling, the vibes, the energy, just everything about it is what makes, like, the business go. It makes a football team go. And it was an honor to be in there. But damn, that was a fifth of that. And then how many Steve Wisers? I think we had, like, yeah, there.

[AJ Hawk]

Was a lot of beer going, too. It was one of those deals, man. I mean, you know, I can go. But the next morning, and I knew everybody. I heard everybody else was selling big time.

[Pat McAfee]

Yes.

[AJ Hawk]

I wasn't selling as much, but, yeah, I was selling it. It was. It hurt.

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah. So I texted. I texted Larry, and I'm like, I'm in a bad spot. Larry's like, oh, you got to no sell this, or whatever. Whenever you talk to Brock and Steve and I. I'm like, no, I'm dead. I am. I was puked three times the next day. It was an honor to drink with you. That was a dream come true. And thanks for stunning me. You know, there's no reason for that. We are having a good time. We're having. We're having a good time. We're drinking some beers, we're serenading the crowd. We're in Jerry world. We're reminiscing.

[Hulk Hogan]

What?

[Pat McAfee]

And.

[AJ Hawk]

And dude, you took that stunner like a champ. And people asked me, and then some of the guys backstage, they know me pretty well, and they said, hey, man, it looked like you shot with that stunner on McAfee. I said. They said, what was up? And I said, yeah. I said, anytime in damn football players come over here and try to get in our world, you got to show them what's up. So, yeah, I laid that in on him. And last I heard, I thought I dislocated your jaw. Messed up a couple of C vertebrae rates. I hit you over here on this side, caught you with a liver shot with that big boot.

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah.

[AJ Hawk]

And I heard you was just all up.

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah, I was. I was. Yeah. Hey, that's what happens whenever you drink with a Texas rattlesnake. You know, that is. That is a possibility. But yeah, yeah, the neck was stunned. Obviously. Jaw had a couple there and I was.

[AJ Hawk]

But no animosity back towards me now, right?

[Pat McAfee]

Never. Your Stone Cold Steve Austin Cole has a question for you. Steve.

[Triple H]

Well, actually, I just want to thank Steve because I wouldn't be here today without you.

[AJ Hawk]

I mean, how do you think of that?

[Pat McAfee]

Well.

[Triple H]

Well, first off, when I started, I was the butt of all your jokes and all of your interviews and all of your certain things that you did. Then you beat the out of me one night where you knocked me out with a punch and then kicked me in my kidney to wake me up. And then you gave me the honor of being the special guest referee for a match that was voted the worst in WrestleMania history. Me, me versus Jerry the King Lawler. Yeah, but you actually agreed to be the special guest referee of that match. And I'll forever be indebted to you for that. I mean, coming up in the business with you was incredible, man.

[AJ Hawk]

But I gotta say, I mean, because of the. The state and. And of the business and where we were in that year and what Stone Cold was, I had to lay that ass whooping in and that's all. Seriously, that was protecting the business. And you took it like a champ because I truly did beat the out.

[Pat McAfee]

You're did. Hey, way to go, Cole. Way to go, Cole. Thank you.

[Triple H]

Hey, you know also Wade Barrett, who's a commentator with us now. Wade and I frequent your brewery in El Segundo.

[AJ Hawk]

It's a great place to go.

[Triple H]

Phenomenal. And they take care of us there.

[Pat McAfee]

All the time that felt like an easy fit. You and beer. Why did. Why did you finally get into the beer game? It feels like that should have been something for a long time.

[AJ Hawk]

Well, something for a long time.

[Michael Cole]

And.

[AJ Hawk]

And when I was here, stored a lot of people.

[Pat McAfee]

You might be like that mother. Notorious beer drinker in the history of humankind.

[AJ Hawk]

Probably. You know, that's. That's something. A badge of honor.

[Pat McAfee]

Absolutely.

[AJ Hawk]

Hey, it's way back in the day, and I was running hot at Stone Cold. We were doing some beer testing with the place up in northern New York. We're about to come out with Stone Cold beer, and then, you know, we come up with a bad booking decision, you know, about me and Brock and Monday Night Raw. And I said, hey, man, f this. And that blew the beer deal. So all these years later, of course, you know, as you know, the beer drinking is a shoot for me. I grew up drinking beer my whole life. And, you know, in college, when you starving, drinking the shittiest beer that you can afford.

[Triple H]

Absolutely Lone Star.

[Pat McAfee]

So, yeah, pbr, Natty Light.

[AJ Hawk]

I'm not gonna name any names, but anyway, I'd always wanted to get in the beer market, and I started seeing about these craft beers. I said, man, what the f is all this craft beer stuff? Because I figured that was for the snobs. And so I started drinking a bunch of pale ales and stuff like that, and I kind of tried one of those IPAs, India Pale Ales. I said, man, that's a little too hoppy. I went back to the pale ale, and I said, man, that ain't happy enough. So I went back to the India pale ales, the IPAs. And my manager at the time went to high school with Rob Crochall, who owns El Segundo Beer Company, and he put us together. We liked each other, saw the same vision for great beer. El Segundo Brewing Company is known for making great IPAs West coast style. So we hit it off, and I've been in it. This is an interesting year for me because 2025, I've. I've been in the beer business 10 years with El Segundo Brewing Company, and it was a match made in heaven. We're proud of our beer. You know, we're craft beer. We're not the biggest. We're competing with the bigs, but our beer, we make some good beer. And I'm also. This. This year, I celebrate my 10th anniversary with Cow's Motorsports. So just milestone 2025 has turned out to be good. And here at WrestleMania in Las Vegas. I don't like to leave the state of Nevada too much because this is my home. And coming down for it, we were just here last month at the Met 400 and I finished that race. We. We had a lot of problems and broke down, but finished this race. So it's just, it's just a great year and it's good to be here with you guys.

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah, but what, what a compliment. Accomplished dude. Obviously, WWE goat will always be talked about as such. Anytime you walk into a WWE place, It'll go crazy. 10 years with Kawasaki. That's a long time with a partnership. 10 years with El Segundo, with beer. That's a long partnership. You're an accomplished dude. You've done good, Steve. Never forget it. And as long as Steve Austin's selling beer, I gotta. I got a nice little piece of information for you that you're gonna want to hear. People are gonna drink it, brother. And we're one of them for sure. On that note, Hulkster has a question for you. Stone cold.

[Hulk Hogan]

Yeah, Steve. Just first and foremost, I'd like to say from one beer magnate to one up and coming beer magnate, congrats on all your success, brother. I love you, you know that. I wanted to ask you though, you know, with. With Mania right here. I'll tell you what, these marks have been up my ass all weekend so far.

[Pat McAfee]

It's.

[Hulk Hogan]

It's getting real hard. I'm about to go over the edge and I'm gonna leave a lot of people unhappy here, dude. See? Show some goddamn respect, brother. You. You right. I'm looking at you.

[AJ Hawk]

Scary marks.

[Hulk Hogan]

But anyway, anyway, just curious, you know, I think I saw an excerpt that basically said you. You were like, hey, listen, there's nothing better than being in that ring. There's no feeling that's gonna, you know, get to that point with all the motorsports and everything you're doing and all that kind of stuff. Do you feel like you're kind of always chasing that feeling that you get in the ring? Or is that kind of one of those things where it's like, like, you know what? That's the best feeling ever, dude. And I'm never going to reach that again.

[AJ Hawk]

No, I'm not chasing that feeling in the ring. It was just. We was. We was filming a project and I've been riding buggies and four wheelers and all that my whole life. And we were filming a show and someone asked me, hey man, do you want to do a poker run? A poker run is a pre run for an off road desert race? And I said man, what the is a poker run? Cuz I don't play cards. So anyway.

[Pat McAfee]

You don't play cards?

[AJ Hawk]

No man, I ain't got time to play cards. It's sit there and you do your little cards out.

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah. You do little cards and you look at them. Yeah.

[AJ Hawk]

What and then you try to bluff your other guy. It ain't my bag, man. Yeah. So anyway, there we were and I ran that race and then the owner of the team, Shane Kissman called me up and he said hey man, would you like to really race side by sides? And so I, I started that but I didn't do that to try to chase what wrestling brought to me because you got to move on in life and there ain't nothing, ain't nothing that's that you know, that can mimic or follow what these crowds deliver. When you're in that ring, going down to give them 15, 20, 20, 25 minutes of excellence that goes in the business of pro wrestling in a 20 by 20 squared circle. So I don't chase that, but I do have that racing. Racing and me were a good fix. I found it a little bit late in life. I wish I'd have found it sooner but I'm, I love to drive because we like going all the shows on the road road. I love to drive. Like to have a steering wheel in my hand and I'm a type A personality. I hate to be late to the finish line. So it was a match made in heaven.

[Pat McAfee]

Hell yeah. Did you ever do an Uber and you've never Ubered in your life.

[AJ Hawk]

I assume you mean like been an Uber and drove.

[Triple H]

No, like can you imagine been in the car.

[Pat McAfee]

Was the mark have you had.

[AJ Hawk]

Yeah, yeah, yeah, it was Uber mark. Yeah, yeah. I always get them, them big SUVs. So. Yeah, go ahead.

[Pat McAfee]

Well, I was just going to tell you about liking the driver drive. I have gotten Uber driver shotgun and drove because I didn't like the way person was driving. Yeah, I agree completely with what you're saying. With having a wheel in your hand.

[AJ Hawk]

Yeah.

[Pat McAfee]

Is it, how fast are you going out there on the desert? No side by side, man, our buggies.

[AJ Hawk]

You think about the trophy trucks, those things are doing, you know, buck 20, buck 30, buck 40, whatever. You know our, if we're hitting about 80 and this we're running pro naturally aspirated so it's a tough ass buggy. But we're, we're hitting speeds of about 80.

[Pat McAfee]

I love watching it on Instagram. We Also love Poncho.

[Razor Ramon]

Poncho punches.

[AJ Hawk]

Hey, let me give a shout out to them two solid ass cats. And P. Macho's been kayfabing me lately. We got an angle going on here. I'm a little bit pissed off at him. Every time I go out there to pet his ass, he's starting to walk away on me.

[Pat McAfee]

What?

[AJ Hawk]

Macho went after a chick and I had to suspend his belt, put him. He broke a sanction, so he's on a suspension.

[Pat McAfee]

What?

[AJ Hawk]

Life at the Broken Skull Ranch is getting a little tough now. These cats got to realize that Pawpaw is still the boss over.

[Hulk Hogan]

They're getting a little rub, brother.

[AJ Hawk]

Oh, they're getting a rub. But those are some solid ass cats and I love them to death. Yeah, there they are, goats. There's Poncho, the tuxedo cat. And the orange cat is Macho. We named him Poncho. It was just a given. We originally had a black cat and he was lefty and he kicked the bucket. We got another.

[Pat McAfee]

We would like to let you know we did a live memorial.

[AJ Hawk]

Memorial for raccoons. I appreciate that.

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah, we.

[Razor Ramon]

The lake.

[Pat McAfee]

Okay, last question here. We got two minutes before we have a hard out. John Cena. Okay, obviously you guys are in a Mount Rushmore conversation. You know who you are, and there's nobody that doubts it when you see Cena do what Cena has done here over these last couple weeks because his last time is now. We wanted one last. We won the whole thing. We wanted to throw the headband fans. We wanted to make a wishes. And then all of a sudden he comes out and tells the fans that they've been rude to him over the last 20 years and they disrespected him. And he's gone completely the other way. Taking on Cody Rhodes, a guy that obviously they came up in the business kind of together. What are your thoughts on that match and what are your thoughts on what Cena did? Selling out to Dwayne Johnson, the final?

[AJ Hawk]

I'm looking forward to the match, you know, and it's hey, if you like the. If you like, like the John Cena heel turn, give me a hell yeah. If you don't like the John Cena heel turn, give me a hell yeah. I said I like it. So hey, I think it too. Hey, John's a good.

[Razor Ramon]

The one for the bad guys.

[AJ Hawk]

Yeah, John's had a hell of a damn run. So for me to be inside the business as long as I was, I didn't have the longest career in the world. But to see what John's doing and where he's going right now, now, to me, I love it because he just means so much to all of these people here. Whether you boo him or you cheer him, to see him as a heel is a breath of fresh air for me. So I think it the most.

[Triple H]

Steve, you went through it.

[AJ Hawk]

What's that?

[Triple H]

I mean, you went through it. You were so popular. You turned heel as well. You went through.

[AJ Hawk]

I tried to turn heel. That was, you know, that was something that wasn't. That didn't need to happen. We tried to force that and it didn't fit. I think the way John did it, you know, I think it fits.

[Hulk Hogan]

Uhoh.

[Michael Cole]

What's.

[AJ Hawk]

Oh, you got. You know, we got a hard out here. McAfee, you're the one that said it.

[Pat McAfee]

15 seconds.

[AJ Hawk]

30 seconds. Everybody covered?

[Pat McAfee]

Hurry.

[AJ Hawk]

Yeah.

[Pat McAfee]

Yo, Here you go. Here you go. And. And. And here's the. You Stone Cold. You son of a. Oh, hell yeah.

[Hulk Hogan]

Wayne.

[Pat McAfee]

Wayne.

[AJ Hawk]

Hey, guys.

[Pat McAfee]

Hey.

[AJ Hawk]

Thank you, guys.

[Pat McAfee]

All right, ladies and gentlemen, Stone cold Steve Austin. Hell yeah. All right, we'll be back on the other side of the break for hour two from WWE World. We had a little beer and a little convo and a little side by side talk. Had a little poncho talk.

[Hulk Hogan]

What?

[Pat McAfee]

Had a little cena talk.

[AJ Hawk]

What?

[Pat McAfee]

Had a little goat talk.

[Hulk Hogan]

What?

[Pat McAfee]

And we had stone cold Steve Austin.

[AJ Hawk]

And that's the bottom line. Cause Pat McAfee said so.

[Pat McAfee]

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[Triple H]

Keep it up.

[Pat McAfee]

Keep it up. Okay. Michael Cole. Michael Cole.

[Hulk Hogan]

Michael Cole. Michael Cole.

[Pat McAfee]

Michael Cole. Michael. He's kind of begging for that one. Thank you, guys. Guys are throwing him a little bit of a pity chant. We have a college football national champion, a Super bowl champion, a Ryder cup winner, ladies and gentlemen. You could find him in WWE 2K24, which I'm sure all of you were pumped about. Ladies and gentlemen, AJ Hawk. Aj. What professional wrestler have you had your eye on heading into WrestleMania weekend? And now that we're out here in Las Vegas, who are you looking forward to potentially stealing the show out here in Sin City? I tell you what. El Grande Americano, he's. He's. He's been climbing up the charts in my household. I'm not gonna lie, Pat.

[Roman Reigns]

I don't know how you guys feel.

[Pat McAfee]

But I think it's awesome. I see some people booing El Grande Americano.

[Triple H]

Well, he's been relocated now to the Gulf of Mexico.

[Pat McAfee]

I heard. I did hear that there was.

[Hulk Hogan]

That's not right, dude.

[Pat McAfee]

No, no.

[Triple H]

He's been relocated.

[Pat McAfee]

Gulf of America. No, there was a processing error because when El Grande Americano was born, the name was. So that was kind of. That's why it went back. A paper. Clerical issue. Yeah, because he's not a month and a half old. Right. He is an adult. So where he's from is Maybe. Well, we don't know anything about El Grande American. We don't know who he is. No. Hopefully one day we get to meet. It's not Chad Gable.

[Razor Ramon]

That's wrong.

[Pat McAfee]

Is he gonna be an all day?

[Triple H]

Have you guys compared. Have you guys compared the tattoos and stuff?

[Pat McAfee]

No. This isn't the town, okay? This isn't the movie where they're kind of looking at neck tattoos and piecing things together. A lot of people have that tattoo. I almost got that tattoo, Cole. You told me you almost got that tattoo. El Grande American has a tough task for his first WrestleMania. He's going against the gloat, the greatest luchador of all time. But that's what El Grande Americano wants to become someday. I heard from El Grande Americano's people. Source.

[Triple H]

So Chad Gable told you this?

[Hulk Hogan]

No.

[Pat McAfee]

What are you talking about?

[Hulk Hogan]

Why don't you get off it, dude?

[Triple H]

Sorry, Hulk. You're doing well with your career.

[Hulk Hogan]

Yeah, you know what, Patrick?

[Pat McAfee]

Is that a shooter at work, brother?

[Michael Cole]

I don't know.

[Hulk Hogan]

But apparently this mark doesn't know that. Real American Beer's current valuation is well over $2 billion and currently climbing. Steve Wiser was pretty good. I'd just like to kind of clear something up real quick, Pat. I didn't get a chance to do it in the first hour. Everyone, you know wants to do this goat talk with Michael Cole, and rightfully so. You're very good at what you do. But I'd be remiss if I didn't say, dude, you got a long ways to go to reach Adnan. Virginia territory, brother. Okay? So you fucking stay in line and you keep working on your craft, and maybe one day the Hulkster will call you the Goat. You're not there yet, dude.

[Pat McAfee]

Adnan Burke is the Hulkster's goat. I don't think anybody expected that.

[Hulk Hogan]

Oh, I still like to, you know, throw a curveball every once in a while, brother. Go back and watch his tape. Especially all these marks. You guys gave him a raw deal, dude, okay? There's a reason he's not still there, and he should be. You should all be ashamed of yourself. Go back, watch the tape. He's all unbelievable.

[Pat McAfee]

Razor. Mon. Chico. Bad guy. How's WrestleMania going for you in the shirt you chose?

[Hulk Hogan]

Pretty good.

[Pat McAfee]

I'm not going to lie.

[Razor Ramon]

I've given up the voice gimmick. You know, when you're sitting next to Hulkster, it really. Yeah, it just completely changes.

[Pat McAfee]

Hair looks good, though.

[Darius Butler]

Everything.

[Razor Ramon]

Yeah, I feel like the hair, that was the most important thing, too. You know, we talked about it yesterday, had to nail it. Feel, feel good about that. But I mean, it's unbelievable. Every year it feels like we were just in Philly, you know, but then this is so much better than Philadelphia.

[Pat McAfee]

So much better.

[Razor Ramon]

Philly for first is just such a poopy city. And I feel like I can say that cuz half my family's from there. But Vegas itself is perfect for an event like this. It's incredible. This place is massive. Already went to the mark shop, spent, I don't know, 2,000 bucks on 25 things.

[Michael Cole]

It was.

[Triple H]

Well, did you get the Michael Cole shirt?

[Razor Ramon]

No, I already got two of those. Cole, you know that. And no, once again, same as last year. They are not selling them in there, brother.

[Pat McAfee]

What else aren't they selling in there?

[Razor Ramon]

They also aren't selling any NWO merch.

[Hulk Hogan]

That was weird.

[Razor Ramon]

That's why, you know, Razor Ramon.

[Pat McAfee]

Razor Ramon thought he was showing up with an NWO shirt. Instead he's got a Hall of Fame shirt. Couple your friends in there obviously welcome them in.

[Razor Ramon]

You know, I'm already in there, of course. April 4, 2014. It's a beautiful day in the history of the WWE. But once again, this right here is what it's all about. I'm excited for the hall of Fame. Excited to watch you two work tonight at the hall of Fame as well.

[Pat McAfee]

Hard work pays off.

[Razor Ramon]

Dreams come true. Tough times don't last.

[Pat McAfee]

Bad times don't last.

[Razor Ramon]

My bad guys do.

[Pat McAfee]

What do I. I look, I don't have my.

[Hulk Hogan]

I wrote it down. Nice try, brother.

[Pat McAfee]

He's a bad guy. Bad time. He's also a tough guy. Let's go to one half of the Hammer, Cowboy. CM Punk. Have you ran into CM Punk? And how do you think he is feeling heading in to the biggest weekend of his professional career? I have not ran into CM Punk. A lot of the WWE people backstage said basically a spinning image. So that was pretty cool. And I think, I think, I think.

[Hulk Hogan]

Roman suit said it well.

[Razor Ramon]

He just. He had to sing the theme song. That's why once he started singing.

[Hulk Hogan]

Yeah.

[Pat McAfee]

What is it?

[Hulk Hogan]

I don't want to steal his moment. Do it, dude.

[AJ Hawk]

Come on.

[Pat McAfee]

This is your moment. All I was going to say is.

[Hulk Hogan]

Okay, Roman avoided.

[Pat McAfee]

Look in my eyes.

[Hulk Hogan]

What do you see?

[Pat McAfee]

What is it? The personality. You don't know those words.

[Triple H]

Yes, I do.

[Pat McAfee]

What I just did sounded like you.

[Hulk Hogan]

All I know is Roman avoided me.

[Michael Cole]

Like the plague back there.

[Pat McAfee]

I think he's a bit worried about tomorrow.

[Hulk Hogan]

Did you hear what he said he basically called CM Punk. Nothing. Not worried about about him at all.

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah, we wouldn't say it's my face. What did Roman, what did we learn from the conversation with Roman that you will take into your analysis of WrestleMania?

[Triple H]

Michael Cole, I think he is affected a lot more by Paul Heyman being in Punk's corner than he's letting on.

[Pat McAfee]

I don't love that.

[Triple H]

I think he was very defensive, especially when I asked that question. I think it's bothering him.

[Pat McAfee]

You know, there's 25 missed calls from Paul Heyman just yesterday on Roman's phone. He's turned them completely off. He's hit the fu button on him. He's the looking forward. He's going out there alone. He's not alone though. And that's what I tried to tell him. When Roman Reigns walks out into that stadium, there is going to be tens of thousands of people walking alongside of him. And I'll tell you what, we can't wait for him to get the Ulafala official tribal chief title all the way back as he gets a stranglehold on the company again.

[Triple H]

He needs to get the ULA fala back.

[Razor Ramon]

Well, it's in good hands right now.

[Hulk Hogan]

It is in good hands, dude.

[Pat McAfee]

The tribal commander in chief has the ULA fala I believe in Washington D.C. that thing I think is on a private plane heading over here to Las Vegas. Joining us now, ladies and gentlemen, I describe her every week as an anomaly because I don't think there's another human on earth that can do any of the things that she can do. She is a picture perfect WWE star Superstar. You put that alongside the fact that she's been a lifelong fan. There's no wonder. She's been a two time champ and she's tied for the longest reign in the history of World championships. This weekend she's in a triple threat match to become champion yet again against IO sky and Bianca Belair.

[Triple H]

That will kick off WrestleMania Sunday kickoff.

[Pat McAfee]

Match on WrestleMania Sunday day. Second highest honor you can get in the entire show, ladies and gentlemen. Some call her mommy. Did he introduce himself to you as Terry Belea?

[Rhea Ripley]

Yeah, he did.

[Pat McAfee]

Such a gentleman. I did not know that that was possible. Ladies and gentlemen, Mommy is here.

[Rhea Ripley]

I love it.

[Pat McAfee]

They are all your children and this is becoming an annual tradition. So we thank you for joining us yet again. Obviously with so many big things happening this weekend, you are not a champion going into Wrestlemania.

[Rhea Ripley]

Look, I feel like one.

[Pat McAfee]

Okay. How do you feel going in? Feels like you're maybe best shape of Your life mentality, how is it. Obviously, Triple Threat Match isn't easy. How is the mentality here?

[Rhea Ripley]

Yeah, I mean, Triple Threat matches, they're unpredictable. You've got people coming from every single direction. You got to watch your back at all times. You got to watch everyone else's back. Because Iyo could pin Bianca, bianca could pin IO anything could really happen. But going into WrestleMania 41, I am ready. I want my women's World Championship back. And, yes, even though I. I am an emotional wreck at times, and I don't make good decisions.

[Pat McAfee]

Happens all of us.

[Rhea Ripley]

It's. It's a human thing. It's a human thing, and that's just how I have to deal with it. But going into WrestleMania 41, I am as ready as I'm going to be, and I cannot wait.

[Pat McAfee]

Okay. I'm happy to hear you didn't break your nose. A lot of us thought. A lot of us thought you broke your nose whenever EO sky springboarded off the top to push you into Bianca Belair. One of the moments where you guys. Not a lot of respect seemingly amongst the three of you at this point. You're healthy, heading in. Nose is good.

[Rhea Ripley]

Nose is good.

[Pat McAfee]

And how excited are you guys to finally kind of handle this? That's been kind of brewing since elimination chamber.

[Rhea Ripley]

I mean, we're all extremely excited again in there and just brutalize each other. We've been waiting for this moment, especially Bianca and I. We've talked about heading into WrestleMania against each other for the last, like, three to four years. Even since NXT, we've always been talking about this, add IO into the mix. Like, I'm as ready as I can be. I'm excited for this. I'm. I'm willing to go into my bag of trips, tricks, and just put everything on the line.

[Pat McAfee]

As you know, kicking off WrestleMania is, like, the second most, like, obviously, the main event.

[Rhea Ripley]

Yep.

[Pat McAfee]

And then there's the kickoff of the show. Big deal. You've been a part of it a few times now. Obviously, throughout, you're doing it yet again. How does that change your day and your preparation?

[Rhea Ripley]

I just have to start earlier. I have to mentally prepare to go to war a lot earlier and have the crowd be hotter, which is good, because then I get more of adrenal adrenaline rush because they're really. They're really, really loud and just excited to be there. We're opening the show, so it's just like, we get all the emotion straight out, and it's. It's gonna be absolutely thrilling.

[Pat McAfee]

Chosen to set the tone for the evening is a massive honor, obviously something that has been bestowed upon you plenty of times. Cole has a question for you, Rio.

[Triple H]

So, Rhea, you know, Iyo sky is sort of in her mind taking a back seat in this whole build to this match. It's sort of been you and Bianca, and IO, despite being the champion, sort of been off to the side. You have never beaten Iyo Sky.

[Pat McAfee]

What's this guy's name? What the hell does that.

[Hulk Hogan]

Come inside.

[Pat McAfee]

Sorry, he's not on our show. You know that. He's a guest.

[Hulk Hogan]

Leading question, brother.

[Triple H]

I'm just wondering if that weighs on you at all going into the match.

[Rhea Ripley]

I mean, it's always going to be there. It's. It's a fact. I've never beaten EO Sky. That's something that I have to live with and I have to think about. But I've gotten very, very close to beating EO sky and I had her beat on Raw until Bianca decided to get up out of her chair. And still the spot.

[Pat McAfee]

You kind of got distracted there. I'm going to say it. I did. I'm on your side. I'm on your side, but you kind of got distracted.

[Rhea Ripley]

I. I definitely did because I've had people turn on me left, right, and center since I came up to raw. I've had people turn on me in nxt. I've had friends betray me, family betray me. So then to see Bianca go back on her word after years of us saying that we wanted to face each other one on one at WrestleMania for. Then to see her get up and cheer for Iyo.

[Pat McAfee]

Come on.

[Rhea Ripley]

I took that as disrespect and another betrayal in a way. So, like, I. I lost my temper. I went out there, of course, like it wasn't the smartest thing to do, but.

[Pat McAfee]

But we're in it.

[Rhea Ripley]

I also had eob. She only got up because she got a little cheerleader next to her.

[Pat McAfee]

Are you worried about the cheerleader and Bianca teaming up against you? You are the eradicator, you know.

[Rhea Ripley]

I'm not worried, to be honest. They can team up if they want.

[Pat McAfee]

Are you gonna do this number here? How come nobody ever does this one?

[Hulk Hogan]

It's a good move, cuz.

[Rhea Ripley]

I don't know if that one works.

[Hulk Hogan]

It does. It does.

[Pat McAfee]

Dude, we watch Hulk. Look. T's got it.

[Hulk Hogan]

Well, I mean, by was really. I kind of started it with the, you know, boom right there. You kind of the. The early genesis, but you're just. You're sitting right there. Okay. You're wait. You're waiting. Call it in. And then maybe, you know, if they come at the same time, you're speed bagging them. No one never tried before. R. I'm just saying maybe something.

[Rhea Ripley]

You know, I might. I might give it a go.

[Pat McAfee]

Okay. Not a bad idea. Terry does have a question for you, Ria.

[Hulk Hogan]

I do. Listen, everybody knows about wrestleman. Look at this. Look at all these people.

[Rhea Ripley]

Like you.

[Hulk Hogan]

Yeah, they don't. You know, brother, it's good. Well, it's because I was running hot in LA about 20 years ago. You know, everybody forgets that. But listen, WrestleMania much different, obviously, than WrestleMania 3, when I was, you know, body slamming Andre and basically changing the face of wrestling forever. But I'm just curious, are you surprised when you see how much bigger this gets every single year? I mean, you're a massive superstar now, but you're wrestling Las Vegas. Las Vegas. Raiders Stadium, dude.

[Rhea Ripley]

Yeah. I mean, honestly, it's not that surprising. WrestleMania just seems to keep growing and growing and growing and getting more popular. And now, honestly, with our deal with Netflix as well, there's more eyes on the product than there ever has been. People that weren't wrestling fans before, they're now checking it out and they're like, I want to see the super football of WWE and wrestling in general. I want to watch WrestleMania 41. I want to see these superstars that I've just started watching and watch them go to war for the championships that they're going for. Like, there are so many eyes, and to see the product get this big and just continue to grow, it's amazing. I'm not surprised, I want to say, but it's just cool to see how high the product can go and how many eyes are really on on us all. Because it deserves it. It deserves the platform that it's on. And we all work our asses off for this, so we appreciate everyone that actually does come and watch and watch us from home and. And supports us doing the thing that we love. So thank you, guys.

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah, we are lucky that you do your thing. I was just checking out your nails right now. Awesome. Your rings, your watch, your bracelets.

[Rhea Ripley]

My bracelets? My many, many bracelets?

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah. I mean, you three chains. I mean, we. Hey, come on. Saucon. Going into WrestleMania.

[Rhea Ripley]

WrestleMania ready.

[Pat McAfee]

I love everything about it. Go ahead.

[Triple H]

You know what's amazing to me is that you've only been doing this 10 years, right? You started in a small promotion in Australia, came over to the States, a completely different individual when you came here. I remember calling your. Your matches in the Mae Young Classic. Completely different. Rhea Ripley since you and I read it, article about it earlier this week. Since you, quote, unquote, found yourself, you've seemed so much more confident and just on a different level than you've ever been before.

[Rhea Ripley]

Yeah, it took a lot. I was always someone that would listen to every part of the criticism that people would throw at me. And honestly, it started eating me alive, and I just didn't feel comfortable being myself. I wanted to have the long blonde hair to hide behind it. It was my. My hiding mechanism, you know, like if I got shy, just hid behind my hair. I didn't get tattoos because I was worried that WWE wouldn't hire me because I had tattoos. I didn't like standing out too much. I just wanted to please everyone. And then I got to a point where I wasn't happy being me like that anymore. I wanted to be my true self. And ever since I embraced who I am as a human and started dressing the way that I wanted to dress, I cut my hair. I felt more confident because I couldn't hide behind it. Man, it felt good. It felt really, really good. Getting tattoos. I know it's just something little, but, like, man, it's me.

[Pat McAfee]

And you became Mommy.

[Rhea Ripley]

I appreciate you guys.

[Pat McAfee]

You became mommy. I did.

[Rhea Ripley]

And that's something that I really stand for. I think everyone should. Should just embrace their inner self and their true self, and they will start to love themselves. Screw what people say about you.

[Pat McAfee]

Love yourself.

[Rhea Ripley]

Love yourself.

[Pat McAfee]

Hell yeah. Hell, yeah. Some days it's a lot harder than others, I will say, especially for somebody like me. But for you, you become an inspo, obviously, to a lot of people. And since, you know, becoming your true self, even though you were great before, you have been become an anomaly. You're one of one.

[Hulk Hogan]

Thank you.

[Pat McAfee]

You are special. You are something that this company needs, this profession needs, this business needs. And I'm so happy to see you once again in a championship opportunity. Enjoy the whole weekend, okay?

[Rhea Ripley]

Oh, I will.

[Pat McAfee]

Ladies and gentlemen, the Eradicator Mommy Rio broke the stage. See you later. She's awesome.

[Triple H]

Yeah.

[Pat McAfee]

I mean.

[AJ Hawk]

Yep.

[Razor Ramon]

Terry's pants are a little tighter.

[Hulk Hogan]

Easy, dude. Show a little respect, brother. Maybe, though.

[Pat McAfee]

She's awesome. Ria's awesome. As Michael Cole takes selfies. D Butt returns the set. So when I was down, whenever we were down at nxt. Foxy, I don't know if you have a camera and a microphone back there, do you, Foxy? Yes, sir. What's up? Hey, you remember when we were going down to nxt, it was during COVID Yep. And there was only a few NXT talent. Whoever was just on the show was there and then there was only a couple producers. So it was like, I don't want to say a small class of people, but we were very lucky to be a part of that. Week in, week out. Rio was one of them, obviously. Carrying Cross was down there. Champa Gargano, Alistair Black. Alistair Black was down there. Yes. At that time, Pete Dunn, those scumbags. Scumbags from Adam Cole all the way through the rest of the group. Maria was down there and she. Yes. She was in the middle of understanding, I think I would kind of say we've known her since day one and we've watched this journey from beginning till now and it's been. It's honestly outstanding. I agree completely. I was thinking about that the other day whenever she came out in a place with bananas and she's always been so nice to us. Was nice to us then, nice to us now. It's awesome. Always cool. Yeah. In the night I did war games. She might, she might have caught wind, her and others, that I was going to go off the top of the cage or whatever and like right before I go out her and I forget who else it might have been, Karen Cross. And they go, don't have to, don't, don't have to. Don't have to go off the top. And it's like, have to go up top, don't you think? And they're like, yeah, you don't have to. I'm like, all right, I'll see you on the other side. Literally like the last two people I see going out there. So it's great to see who she is.

[Triple H]

Confidence, confidence, confidence. That's what she's gaining, gained in the last number of years. And that's why she's great. She believes in herself.

[Pat McAfee]

Now two time world champ, longest reigning one, what do you think her thoughts were on you, Razor Ramon?

[Razor Ramon]

I assumed, you know, classic bad guy. She, she gets it, you know, she, she knows what's going on here and also, you know, confidence. She oozes machismo. I feel like that is something that we all can relate to and I am looking forward to that kickoff because you guys mentioned it too, obviously, main event. You want to be main eventers. That's huge. The, the kickoff match, just as important. That, that's the one that kind of sets the tone. We're. I feel like that's the one you kind of have to land because that gets everybody going for the rest of the night.

[Pat McAfee]

Sets the tone. What is the kickoff matches for WrestleMania.

[Triple H]

Saturday is going to be Gunther vs. Jay for the World Heavyweight Championship.

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah, that's a football stadium.

[Triple H]

Oh, it's gonna be amazing with that set.

[Razor Ramon]

That's a toad set Coming down like Chris Angel.

[Pat McAfee]

That's gonna be a long time too. That's what I'm thinking. That's the first match.

[Triple H]

Remember the Yeeting and Indy at the Rumble?

[Pat McAfee]

Absolutely. I'm gonna be exhausted.

[Hulk Hogan]

Oh man, I didn't even think of that.

[Pat McAfee]

I'm gonna be absolutely exhausted. First match of the night. Cannot wait to sweat as Jey uso makes his way to the ring to potentially become a world champion for the first time. Darius J. Butler, your thoughts on Ria Bianca Belair and EO sky match for the title. Kicking things off on Sunday.

[Darius Butler]

Cannot wait. You guys are just talking about Ria and just her aura and obviously, you know est can't wait to see that. And then she hasn't beaten EO sky yet, so I know that's on her mind. But I cannot wait for that match to kick off things.

[Pat McAfee]

As one of the best athletes I've ever witnessed, you appreciate. What are your thoughts on what happens in a ring for people that, that maybe don't watch wrestling at home?

[Darius Butler]

What do you mean?

[Pat McAfee]

Just the things that are happening.

[Darius Butler]

I mean it's impressive when you, especially when you're in person and you see these athletes because it's, it's live and we know what it is. Obviously was shoot sports as stone cold. When you're in that live arena, you're just reacting. But you have one time. It's not like you can pre record and say, hey, let's go do that again. We didn't hit it. So it's impressive to see these world class athletes in those moments. Moments they feed off the fans. They hear. Roman said, they hear the fans, they feel it. And it's awesome being a fan and just taking in not only what they do athletic wise, but you know, telling the story as, as Michael Cole would say.

[Pat McAfee]

It's actual magic. You know, it is, it's actual magic happening in front of our eyes. And there's been a couple people talking about it where just watch and disappear. Like, you know, there's a lot of like hypercritical things on everything and I understand the world we're in with the amount that we know about everything. It's hard not to dissect and study every decision made in every facet of life, definitely in the wrestling world. It's like, if you just sit back and watch for the next three days, you're gonna disappear into a world and you're gonna say, wow, what a ride. That is literally what wrestling is every single time. I mean, it happened to us last night when we were at the stage reveal. There's just, like. There's. I don't know, maybe a million lights. And they're all choreographed perfectly. The pyros choreographed perfectly. Like, leave whatever's happening in the ring out of it. Like, if you just watch the light spectacle. Spectacle the entire time, it'd be worth the weekend. Yeah. You talked about last night, the set reveal that we were. That's an incredible honor to be bestowed upon us and shout out to Stephanie McMahon for doing that. The set's so big, it makes a football stadium look like a basketball arena. It does. That thing is so. From that. That's what I think it looks like.

[Triple H]

Three levels, right?

[Pat McAfee]

Huge. It goes all the way up to the roof of the. And then they got seats in the. Yeah, there's gonna be people in the seat.

[Triple H]

What do you experience for the fans that have those seats near the stage on top and the bleachers, so to speak? It's gonna be pretty incredible.

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah, the shit's gonna be insane. They're doing things that have. Obviously, it's the 30, 41st one. There's been a lot of these. There's been a lot of big brains throughout the history of wrestling that have thought of ideas this weekend. There's gonna be things that we've never seen before happening. There's gonna be things happen this weekend that'll never be seen again. There's one man's brain who's kind of been tasked with driving the ship of said wwe. He'll be heading into the hall of Fame tonight. He'll be on a headset all weekend. He's a man who has given more to this business than anybody that I've ever met, committed his entire being to it, and will for the rest of his life. The current boss, ladies and gentlemen, the Cerebral Assassin, terrorizing cco. Triple H.

[Hulk Hogan]

How about the game, dude? Time to play.

[Pat McAfee]

Time to play the game. That's the right move. That was the right move. That was the right move.

[Hulk Hogan]

Pros, Pros.

[Darius Butler]

That was terrible.

[Pat McAfee]

Cole. You still got it. You still got it. You still got it.

[Hulk Hogan]

You still got it.

[Roman Reigns]

You still got it, Cole.

[Michael Cole]

Nailed it. At my age, I feel good that it's sprayed still.

[Pat McAfee]

I usually took that first time. Triple H, thank You so much for blessing us with conversation and also great work building up to all of this. Now there has been a transition into a new era of the wwe. The WWE has had success for decades and decades, but at the current moment, we are at a different strike stratosphere than it has ever happened before for anybody. The multi billion dollar deals with Netflix, the global interruption that the entertainment world's doing. This setup for WrestleMania here in Las Vegas has to feel good and it has to feel fulfilling. That something that you love is now captivating more people seemingly than ever. Is that an accurate assessment of how you feel?

[Michael Cole]

100%, I think, you know, there's no greater feeling than something that you're that passionate about where you live and breathe it 24 7. And to be able to put it out there, to be able to work along people you know like you like, like everyone else that feels the same way, that is as passionate about it, that grew up loving it and that was a fan that now gets to be a part of it. For us to all work together and see this level of success where, where these men and women can go out there. You know, there'll be a couple 100,000 people will descend on Vegas this weekend for WrestleMania. There'll be, you know, over 100,000 people there over a couple of days in the stadium. It's. It's hard to put into words how cool it is.

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah, I think so. Because Steve said earlier, he said houses are packed, you know, checks like old school. The way they talk about what success in the business while the people in the arena moving merch and who cares? Do people care? Yeah, it's like people care now. Around the world, everywhere we go is filled. Every single arena we've ever been in since I've been here has been filled. And now you got a football stadium looking like a basketball arena. With how big that set is, I mean, is there thoughts of how much bigger can it get legit? Like, because I'll sit out there sometimes watch all the, that you guys have put together. All of it, all the shows, all the stores, all this. It's like, how much bigger can you get? Are you guys still focusing on big growth project or what is the thoughts?

[Michael Cole]

I just don't think there's a ceiling on it to me. And again, this is just my personal feeling on it. There is no greater form of entertainment than what we do when it is done well. And when it is at the highest level, there's nothing like it. It's why I became captivated as a You know, five, six year old kid with it. And that's all I wanted to do. It's why you grew up captivated. It was why all of them grew up captivated with it. And one of the coolest things is to look out here and see people of every single age group, every single race, denomination. Everybody just, it's a big giant melting pot. It's like a family reunion. You come here, there's no fights over teams, there's no battles. It's just everybody loving something and getting along, doing it. And then when you see that, and then you see little kids like this guy right here sitting on the shoulders like that's that next generation, right? And they, they bring that next generation here and hopefully he'll love it for life. And, you know, maybe I won't be here, but down the road we'll see him with his kids here, you know, taking it to another level.

[Pat McAfee]

Well, need to see you here, by the way. We need you to live forever because of what you're doing right now with the wwe. And the boys will have their questions, but I have mine here. I heard you talk about the conversation you have with John Cena when he said he was sick of these fans and he wanted to turn on him and join the Rock. With how that is going with Cody Rhodes. Do you have any clue on what the reaction from these people will be if John Cena does what he says he's going to do, which is win the title and ruin wrestling? How do we make sure that doesn't happen so that this kid right over here that's on his dad's shoulders still has a wrestling that he can love going forward and not have that John Cena ruin it all here in Las Vegas.

[Michael Cole]

Mr. H. Well, I think this, I think that incredibly cool of John. It would have been very easy for John Cena to want to come back here, do his greatest hits and ride off into the sunset and just take the easy road and enjoy this last run and just relax into it. This is a challenge for him. Whether everybody loves that challenge or not, it's a challenge for him to bring things in a different way and to, on his last run, do things that he's never really done before and sort of challenge himself to go there. So hats off to him. I will say this, and this is not to combat John because his opinion is his opinion. You cannot stop this. You cannot kill wwe.

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah, you're right.

[Michael Cole]

Yeah. I don't care. I don't care what, what anybody says, what anybody does. This is wwe. This right here, this sea of people, that kid on the shoulders, this is wwe. And no matter what, what anybody says, thinks, or any differently, you cannot kill it. It will continue on.

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah, John. And once again, I'm a John Cena fan. Okay. There was a lot of. Let's go Cena's earlier. Not that many Cena sucks, so they might be on your side of this whole thing. D Bud has a question for you.

[Darius Butler]

H. Kind of on a earlier note, Pat was mentioning how people can be so hypercritical of the business now in this day and age, so many people care. And I live on X and saw just an extra point of your. Your interview saying, hey, kind of F off. Don't be a critic, be a fan. Was there more context to that? Because everything's so clicked down there.

[Michael Cole]

Yeah, look, I'm just a big believer that if. If I ask you to go watch, I tell you I saw a movie, thought it was great, you should go see it. You just go see it. You're a fan. You go watch it. You come back, you like it. You didn't. Whatever. If I say, go watch that movie, give me a report on it. Tell me all the things that work, all the things that didn't. You go watch that movie differently. Right. That's my point. At some point, you loved this. You loved it more than anything, and you grew up watching it, and you're invested and. And you went as a fan, and then some reason you got into being a critic or somebody asked you to be a critic, and now you're hypercritical. To me, that ruins the experience for people. I. You know, I don't want to go watch a movie or anything else and just criticize everything I see in it. I just want to go see if I enjoy the movie.

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah.

[Michael Cole]

You know, people will criticize this. I don't. I don't put a lot of stock into what is on the Internet unless it follows through to other things we do. Right. So if they're. You know, when Jay USO won the Rumble, there were a lot of people that had their thoughts and comments and opinions on that, which is, at the end of the day, all they are. But there are 15,000 people in a venue, and as Pat said, it's been sold out all the time, yeeting and going absolutely crazy when he comes out. Including him. And including him. Right. So who do we listen to? The few people. You know what I mean?

[Hulk Hogan]

Or the.

[Michael Cole]

Or the large crowd. And that's the thing. So we're fortunate enough to Have a focus group every single night of a lot of people that are really in that moment, fans, not being critics, not being anything else. And people are allowed to love what they love and dislike what they dislike. And their opinions are their opinions. But you cannot base things on the opinion of some when the majority feels differently. But when the majority starts to feel it, then that's when you.

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah, you gotta listen.

[Michael Cole]

You gotta listen. Yeah, you gotta listen.

[Pat McAfee]

It's a business where the fans very much matter.

[Michael Cole]

Absolutely.

[Pat McAfee]

And in the world that we're in though, it's like, are the fans that are the most vocal, representing the most amount of people? You know, that's kind of a conversation happening around a lot of businesses. I will say this, the passionate fans that are critical of everything that happened are going to be wrestling fans for the rest of their lives. And that's why I think they feel a certain gatekeeping of what a wrestling fan is allowed to be, what a wrestling fan isn't allowed to be, what's allowed to happen. So I think they will always exist. But I will have you know, D bu I don't think was like a die hard fan other than when he was a kid. Connor just got into it. Ty literally has been in it since he was a kid. We can't wait to just sit back. And that's why my job is the best in the world. I get to sit next to Cole and I get to just watch wrestling for two and a half, three hours and have the time of my life. The business right now is more fun and better than it's ever been. And I think a lot of the ex wrestlers that would say that is the case as well, promo wise. Back in the day there was dogs. Okay. Nowadays there's a lot of people that are good on mics as well.

[Michael Cole]

Yeah.

[Pat McAfee]

In the ring, being able to work. Back in the day, there was definitely guys that were able to work, but there was also a lot of guys that maybe couldn't work that well. Now it feels like a lot more people have the ability to work. Just like every sport, it kind of. There's an evolution that takes place.

[Michael Cole]

Absolutely.

[Pat McAfee]

And I think it's in a great spot. So I think the people on the Internet that are negative, like, I think they'll be around forever. I think that's why they feel so passionate about it. But, man, the bigger picture of all of us, we have loved the ride that you have taken us. Oh, yeah, yeah.

[Michael Cole]

Look, it's part of the thing.

[Pat McAfee]

It's a ride, brother. You're Taking us on a ride that's real for.

[Michael Cole]

For me, like, one of the things I love to watch. We have the spy camera on you guys where I can see you. So if we need to talk about things between segs. There were times when I would see him and bless him, would be trying to. You'd be like, oh, my God, that's incredible.

[Pat McAfee]

Oh, look at that.

[Michael Cole]

You know what I mean? He's trying to give you this energy, and he's just sitting there. And now I watch him jumping out of his seat, and I watch him freaking out and having a blast. I watch you doing it. I watch fans doing it. To me, that's the answer right there. If. If people are doing that, we got them and we're in a good place. And when they're not, then we readjust, adjust and we shift and we get them back there.

[Pat McAfee]

Lucky to be a part of your company. Cole has a question for you.

[Triple H]

You know, one of the cool things about my whole career here is watching the evolution of you over 28 years. I mean, we've been.

[Michael Cole]

I'll still wedgie you right now.

[Hulk Hogan]

Please do it now.

[Razor Ramon]

Do it.

[Triple H]

I don't think so.

[Michael Cole]

I am not reaching into the back of his pants for any reason.

[Triple H]

Under the sun, you know, and it was really cool being a part of the whole evolution of NXT with you and being there, the performance center, and being a part of all that. You've allowed us to be us and you've allowed us to have fun. And I said it last year at WrestleMania. I love professional wrestling, and that's because of you. You've given me the opportunity to go out there and be who I am. I will say this. Out of everything I've been through in this company, tonight is going to be perhaps the biggest honor of my career because Pat and I are going to be able to host the hall of Fame tonight, and we are going to be there to induct this man into the Class of 2025 tonight, the hall of Fame. Congratulation.

[Pat McAfee]

You do deserve it, and I know you didn't want it. Like, I saw a lot of people saying, like, triple H in charge now, Triple H going in. And for those people, just because I am very lucky to have conversations with other people potentially that have the ability to make decisions. This was the last thing that he wanted, was forced upon you. But I hope at this point, at least, you understand just what they said. You deserve it, brother. 10 times.

[Michael Cole]

Look. Yeah, clearly I've accepted it when. When they surprised me with it and Sean and Taker walked out on stage. I honestly, I thought. I just didn't read the format sheet for the town hall we were doing. And I thought, like it. Sean's coming out here to promote something, and I didn't see it on the sheet. Like, I got to start paying more attention to this. Yeah. It's an incredible honor. It was an incredible honor to be told by those two. You know, as we had talked about hall of Fame, I did not want to do it. We had other plans. And then Nick took things into his own hands, and he's the president, so what can I do?

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah. Not just saying there's a board, too. There's a lot of people that were like, we don't care if he doesn't want it. He deserves it. Look at this. Look at this. Damn.

[Hulk Hogan]

That good, dude.

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah.

[Triple H]

And I do want to say something. You see all the titles you've won? 15, I believe.

[Michael Cole]

Or 14, I'm not sure, to be honest.

[Triple H]

I should know this, but no.

[Pat McAfee]

14.

[Triple H]

14. With that being said, how do you feel about the fact that John Cena could possibly beat Ric Flair's record and. And have 17 world titles on Sunday? Because I know what Ric Flair means to you and your life. How are you going to feel if John wins and breaks Rick's. Rick's record?

[Michael Cole]

I'll be happy for John. I will be happy for the industry. You know, Mech records are there to be broken. They're there to be surpassed. It is there for the next generation to come ahead and chase. Yeah, to chase. To have that sort of sitting in front of you. I think that if it's going to be done, there is nobody probably more deserving to do it than John Cena. But he's got a lot to overcome late in his career. And if you ask me, it's why he's on the shortcut that he's on, because it's a lot harder to do it at the place he's at than it was 20 years ago. So if he does it, I'll be incredibly happy for him. It doesn't take away from what, you know, Flair did or his amazing career. Greatest of all time. But you can make that argument. You know, people have been having that argument since the beginning of anything. You know, how you can compare the Hogan era or the Savage era to the Bruno San Martino era.

[Hulk Hogan]

Thank you, brother.

[Michael Cole]

Thank you for saying that, you know.

[Hulk Hogan]

Oh, yeah.

[Michael Cole]

Has he. How long has he been wearing that?

[Pat McAfee]

All day?

[Michael Cole]

Yeah, just today. I'm surprised.

[Hulk Hogan]

Yeah, all week, bro. I'M not taking it off till Monday, dude.

[Michael Cole]

You know, I just think that you can't make those comparisons. Everybody is great in their era, in their time to, you know, it's just its nature. Look, I was standing back there just now, and one of your tech guys goes, you think you're gonna get a bigger pop in Austin? I'm like, hell, no, I'm not. You know what I mean?

[Hulk Hogan]

Who the fuck said that?

[AJ Hawk]

But.

[Michael Cole]

But it's. It's the fact that people even ask that question. I have no do illusions of that. But, like, the. The people comparison is always what people go to. It's just what they do. But I just don't think that's a. If you. There's things you want to chase, but you've got to be happy with your own success and the place you're in. And I think those comparisons are just, you know, people fantasizing about things that can never be. Who's better, LeBron or Jordan, you know, don't go there.

[Hulk Hogan]

They'll kill you, dude. They'll kill you, brother.

[Michael Cole]

Not getting to that argument. Not saying anything. But that it. But is. It is hard to compare, right?

[Pat McAfee]

Very, very hard. Different sports, different times, different rules, different life, different everything.

[Michael Cole]

Everything.

[Pat McAfee]

With that being said, you did mention his era. Hulkster has a question for you, Mr.

[Hulk Hogan]

H. You did, Mr. H. First and foremost, congratulations on the hall of Fame, obviously.

[Pat McAfee]

Thank you, Hulkster.

[Hulk Hogan]

Please enjoy it. Please enjoy it. I'm just curious. We. We talk a lot about you.

[Pat McAfee]

You.

[Hulk Hogan]

You've been there, done that. You've been at Mania, dude. You've came down that ramp, brother. And you know what that's like, seeing you in your element last night, you know, doing everything. The creative aspect when you do that, do you feel like, oh, I got this, so I'm not chasing, you know, being in the ring anymore, because that was. As a lifelong fan, that was really cool to see, dude.

[Michael Cole]

Thank you. You know, there came a point in my time, long before I hung up my boots for health reasons, where I was kind of done with it. And I hate saying that, because there's a few that I feel like, you know, later.

[Pat McAfee]

I don't.

[Michael Cole]

I don't want to say I ever phoned anything in, but. But I just couldn't focus on it, right? It would be. I would be doing all this other stuff and trying to train twice a day, trying to get ready to be in the ring the day of WrestleMania. I would be working on entrances and, you know, doing a million other things. And somewhere late in the afternoon, I'd be like, oh, my God, I got a match in a couple hours. Like, I have to go think about this. For the first time, I actually sort of felt bad sometimes for the people I was working with because I didn't have the bandwidth, and the things for those other folks were almost the priority for me. I've said this a lot. To me, where I'm at now is very much like doing something for yourself in your life that you're very proud of and then watching your kids do it and helping your kids to succeed in that and the level of pride that you have in what they're doing. To me, you know, tomorrow, Sunday, watching Roman, Seth, you know, Charlotte, Ria, just so many talent that I will watch that in some way I was there through their journey and like to think in some manner, I kind of helped them get there or got or whatever that is. But seeing them do that and the pride that comes out of you, for them, that's an indescribable feeling. I can't makes my career in ring pale in comparison to me, in what it means to me to what I am doing right now.

[Pat McAfee]

Fulfillment, brother. That's what you're feeling whenever you watch that. I assume teachers feel this way, coaches feel this way, parents obviously feel this way. And I had a chance to be nxt. I icon in the black and gold brand whenever you were running it.

[Triple H]

Icon.

[Pat McAfee]

I'm an icon. Yeah. Main evented one.

[Darius Butler]

You heard what the hell he said.

[Pat McAfee]

Do you ever main event a ple?

[Triple H]

I'm undefeated at WrestleMania.

[Razor Ramon]

That's not the question.

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah, that was. So am I. Is there. Have you ever main evented a ple?

[Hulk Hogan]

No.

[Pat McAfee]

Okay.

[Triple H]

Actually, I did one year, a country whipping match.

[Pat McAfee]

Okay. All right.

[AJ Hawk]

Okay.

[Pat McAfee]

Anyways, I took a lot of prime, so.

[Michael Cole]

Icon.

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah. I took a lot of pride in being a part of the NXT that you were running. But everybody that was down there watching you do your thing was like, oh, this guy. Is what you were like, supposed to do. The way you interact with people, the way you think of answers, because a lot of it is problem solving, too. And to his point, Hulkster's point, about watching you last night, it was cool. And it has been cool to kind of watch you do your thing and how you go about doing it, vastly different than maybe it's been done in the past.

[Michael Cole]

Yeah, look, at the end of the day, for me, it's just fun. I'm not out there doing it because I think, like, oh, I got to get on this or I got to control that or I got to this. Like, I just want to have fun. I want to go out there. I want to do this. I want to work with talent. I want to collaborate with people. The favorite thing for me on doing this is like, hey, what do we want to do here? And let's talk about this. And we had an idea for this. What do you think? How do we want to get there? And sort of riffing those ideas and bouncing them off people when you can be creative with somebody, to me, that's the. It's the best. It's. I don't know. That's. That's the. The coolest part of the job is just seeing it come through. What's that?

[Pat McAfee]

That's that.

[Michael Cole]

What's that?

[Pat McAfee]

What's that?

[Michael Cole]

What do I want?

[Pat McAfee]

Just as a creative person, I. I consider myself a pretty creative person. I think there's a lot of creative people. Creative dude, creative guys.

[Michael Cole]

But, Pat, I've never seen you smoke weed.

[Pat McAfee]

You're right.

[Michael Cole]

Yeah.

[Pat McAfee]

You're right. So you don't either, right?

[Michael Cole]

You eat a lot of candy things.

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah, yeah.

[Razor Ramon]

Vitamins.

[Pat McAfee]

Vitamins, yeah, yeah, vitamins. But what is your creative process? Do you listen to music? What is.

[Michael Cole]

It's a weird thing people say, like, what do you do to get creative?

[Pat McAfee]

I don't know.

[Michael Cole]

I don't feel like. Feel like my brain doesn't stop.

[Pat McAfee]

Me neither. Yeah.

[Michael Cole]

You know, and it's. You're just constantly thinking about it. The thing that's not sectioning your phone.

[Pat McAfee]

What do you do?

[Michael Cole]

Yeah, a lot of that. I. You know, I. I'm very not technical with the technology stuff, so I tend to not put things in notes. I tend to just send myself a text.

[AJ Hawk]

Yeah, yeah, yeah.

[Michael Cole]

And then I just roll through my text and look at all the ideas.

[Pat McAfee]

What did I want to. Tell me.

[Michael Cole]

Yeah, exactly. I have a conversation with myself on text.

[Pat McAfee]

The notes section's right there, right?

[Michael Cole]

Yeah. You know, seems. Seems easier. But then again, I don't know. It wasn't notes when I started texting.

[Pat McAfee]

You getting a notification from yourself. Oh, yes.

[Michael Cole]

Yeah. Oh, what did I say? Yeah, I got to go in there and look at what I said. Sometimes I piss myself off at the things I say.

[Pat McAfee]

I understand. Yes. You got to watch how you speak to yourself. You're listening.

[Michael Cole]

Yeah.

[Pat McAfee]

You know, you got to. You got to remember that you've been doing great. We are all following along. Razor Ramon has a question for you. Obviously, friend of yours.

[Razor Ramon]

Yeah, Mr. H. You know, we're talking about the creative Part and luckily we were able to debut the stage to lead the show today and during the second hour. And it's incredible, but I feel like not everybody gets the full sense of what it really is going to look like, you know, tomorrow and Sunday. How did that design happen? Did you kind of start thinking of that as soon as WrestleMania last year started? And is this one of those stages where you do wish you were walking down that ramp just to feel what it's going to feel like and how different it is from the ones of the past?

[Michael Cole]

Well, in all honesty, I'll walk up and down that ramp about 4,000 times tomorrow. Tomorrow and Sunday. I'll be worn out by the end of today from going up and down that ramp. Yeah, look, the beautiful part about this business, the difficult part about this business is it never stops, right? It's the story that never ends. Thank God. As soon as a chapter is done, there's another chapter. And as soon as you put on event, there's another event happening after it. People are just interested in what you're going to give them at that event. Forget about what you did at the one before, right? So it never ends. It's always also the thing, I think, that is tough for people. It wears them out. You know, when. When you're there every single week, and when you have to do that, then multiple times per week, every single week, travel, travel. And if something goes wrong, you gotta. You gotta acknowledge it. You've got to then push it aside and you gotta move on. You have an opportunity to fix it tomorrow or the next day or whenever that is. So, you know, you sort of have to be in that mode of just celebrate the wins, you know, learn from the misses, but move on from both. Don't over. You know, we'll celebrate when Sunday is over, we'll celebrate for probably two or three minutes before somebody will hand me the script of what we're going to be doing and the run sheet for Monday Night Raw the next night. And before I can even look at that, I'll roll over to the Tony Hinchcliffe row and get with you guys. And then, you know, at some point in time, we'll get on that. But this week we spend a lot of time. Put it this way, what we have done for WrestleMania is now kind of done. I sat with Floyd Mayweather once in his locker room right before a fight, and he was just laying on a couch watching a basketball game because he had money on. It was the most relaxed version I'd ever seen outside of Pat On a regular chair, just hanging out, right? And I said, I'm going to let you do your thing. And he's like, I've already done my thing. If I haven't done everything there is to do before I got here today, nothing I'm going to do right now is going to fix it. So I'm just going to relax and in a little bit, I'm going to go out there and fight. No big deal, right? I feel like that's how we are. If we haven't done everything there is to do pretty much before that event starts on Saturday, we've messed up. So this week we spend a lot of time on what happens on the other side, right? You, you, you have to get through what's in front of you. But the second you get the top of Mount Everest, you got to look around and say, which hill am I going up next? Doesn't mean you don't enjoy the success. Doesn't mean you don't, you know, learn from the mistakes. That's key. But you have to then put all that stuff aside and move on to the next thing. And it's. It's constant. It is constant. And that is. I think there are a lot of people that want to be in this industry, and you see them get weeded out by the long term. Anybody can do this short term. But when you start to get into the years and years and years, that grind is what takes you down and can wear you out.

[Triple H]

You know, the excitement about this too, Paul, is that you have WrestleMania every ple. Now, every month is almost like WrestleMania. I mean, it's just as important. But we're playing major stadiums around the world, so you've got to be able.

[Pat McAfee]

Royal Rumble is in a football stadium, right?

[AJ Hawk]

You have to be able to act.

[Michael Cole]

Royal Rumble in a Football Stadium. SummerSlam will be two nights in MetLife this year.

[Pat McAfee]

Football stadium.

[Michael Cole]

Yeah, we'll be. And. And that's the other thing. Even just the talent are coming off. Three weeks in Europe.

[Pat McAfee]

Oh, yeah.

[Michael Cole]

You know, like sold out, massive shows in Europe. We'll do this.

[Pat McAfee]

3.

[Michael Cole]

Three week from this weekend will be backlash. You know, a few weeks at four, really maybe weeks.

[Pat McAfee]

Three weeks from this weekend, huh?

[Michael Cole]

Yeah, yeah, yeah.

[Hulk Hogan]

Quick turn around, dude.

[Michael Cole]

Yeah, you know, it's, it's. It comes quickly and it keeps moving and you just have to try to stay in front of it. And, you know, sometimes people will say, how do you guys do it? You just keep stepping. You just keep one step in front of the other and you just keep Moving forward, that's it.

[Triple H]

And I've said one of the things about your leadership is the fact that you understand that you have an all star team. Like you have an all star team across the board, behind the scenes, on air, in the ring, and you utilize that and you don't over manage. You basically say you guys know what you're doing, the buck stops with you.

[Michael Cole]

But you, how am I going to tell you how to ring announce or how to announce ringside? You know what I mean? I, I can add a storyline beat in here or there. I can tell you, I can tell you if something. I don't go that far without it, whatever. But those are just little side notes. The rest of it, it's like you guys do what you do. I can't. You know, you're. You're the best.

[Triple H]

You rely on this team and I think that's what makes it so good.

[Michael Cole]

I can't, I can't do any of this without everybody else that's here that can't.

[Pat McAfee]

Well, we can't do any of this without you being here. Tonight we'll celebrate you going into the hall of Fame. This weekend, we will celebrate you and your team's big ass brain. And on Monday at the Raw after Mania, we will celebrate what the next chapter is after you wrap up this particular WrestleMania season. And now if you're on the Internet, because it would never happen in real life. Because every time I've ever been with you in public, doesn't matter if the people speak our language or speak another language. As soon as they see you, there's a Triple H and Triple H. Everybody does it because of how much you've done. But if you want to talk your shit on the Internet, Internet, we got two words for you. Triple H, ladies and gentlemen. Hey, pretty good racer Ramone, huh? Pretty good Scott Hall. You got to get slower with it. That. Yeah, just tackle something.

[Hulk Hogan]

Okay, brother.

[Pat McAfee]

This way, this way.

[Triple H]

Hey, Jimmy, do your job. Get your boss over there.

[Pat McAfee]

Great work. Ladies and gentlemen. That was Triple A. And let's not forget Jimmy Kelly, ladies and gentlemen. If you could. You don't know him, but you should. Can I get a Go Jim Kelly.

[AJ Hawk]

Go Jim Kelly.

[Pat McAfee]

Go Jim Kelly. He's a. I like that little buzz. He's a bald headed handsome man who is obviously a director of security for the wwe.

[Hulk Hogan]

Who knows?

[Triple H]

I mean, he's like Bart the ball cop guy Ballart.

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah, he really nailed it. He is not that.

[Hulk Hogan]

That's a low blow, brother.

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah. Okay. From us here at the wwe, world. There's only. Only one thing left for us to do. And I think we should get AJ up here for this for sure. Hawker. We need you to come up here for this. Aj. Because Love another beer.

[Hulk Hogan]

Dude.

[Pat McAfee]

We are gonna. We are gonna pick every single match that will be happening this WrestleMania weekend. AJ, can you hear? Yep. I'm good to go. Welcome back out here. I hope you got a chance to chat with Triple H about a real professionalism.

[Hulk Hogan]

I really did.

[Pat McAfee]

I got to talk about the set.

[AJ Hawk]

Yeah.

[Pat McAfee]

Triple H is the man. It was Zito who asked him if he thought he was going to get a bigger pop. Then.

[Triple H]

Good job.

[Razor Ramon]

Layup.

[Triple H]

Thanks for coming.

[Pat McAfee]

That's a great question to ask somebody. I'm sure that's not something they're thinking about as they're going out there. Out here, there's no one way of doing things, no unwritten rules, and no shortage of adventure. Because out here, the only requirement is having fun. Bank of America invites kids 6 to 18 to golf with us for a limited time.

[Michael Cole]

Sign them up for a free one.

[Pat McAfee]

Year membership, giving them access to discounted Tetons at thousands of courses. Learn [e-mail] golf with us what would you like the power to do? Bank of America restrictions apply. See BFA.com golf with us for complete details. Copyright 2025 bank of America Corporation. If you want tools that stand the test of time without testing your wallet.

[Triple H]

It Harbor Freight is the place for you.

[Pat McAfee]

Expert engineers design and rigorously test Harbor Freight tools to bring you top quality. Whether your next project is big or small. Harbor Freight carries a wide selection from hand tools to power tools to automotive tools and welding equipment. And with prices lower than other top brands, but with the same top quality, you're getting more for your money at Harbor Freight. There are over 1,500 Harbor Freight stores in the U.S. so come see for yourself. Whatever you do, do it for less at Harbor Freight. Boys, we need to pick every single match. Let's go. It's a lot of them. Because it's a celebration of the year that was and a lot of great superstars. I will get your takes when you make your picks. Let's be quick. Let's start out with WrestleMania Saturday night. Opening the show, ticking off all WrestleMania 41 1. We have Gunther taking on J Uso nailed it. Michael Cole leading the yeet up here. We'll start with you, A.J. hawk, you got Gunther to retain or is the yeet man getting his yeet title for the first time? I mean, this is for me, this is an easy one. You're going to be eating all over the place Saturday. So give me J uso. CM Punk, sir. You and I were talking this. Talking about this a bit. Gunther kind of had his way over in Europe when he was on his home territory back in the US of A. We're eating all night long, Jay uso. Okay, T, but it is the ring General.

[Darius Butler]

But he lost his cool a couple weeks ago and I don't think he'll ever get it back. It's made a bit Jay uso all day.

[Pat McAfee]

Okay, so we're eating out here.

[Razor Ramon]

I mean, look, Jay uso. Was that a big night out? You know, how could you go against him? But unfortunately I'm going to. He had his moment at the Royal Rumble and I think Gunter is going to bring it home with those chops. Sorry, sorry, people. You're just going to take that in?

[Pat McAfee]

Survey says.

[Razor Ramon]

Another one for the bad guy.

[Pat McAfee]

Not bad. You're close. Come on, man.

[Hulk Hogan]

Yeah, it's going to be guther, dude. That's a layup. Listen. I mean, listen to these marks he's got. You guys don't know about wrestling. None of you guys.

[Razor Ramon]

You're in the hall of fame.

[Hulk Hogan]

I should be. If I'm not, I've recent things. I don't know if maybe they took me out or something. Waiting to go back in.

[AJ Hawk]

I don't know.

[Hulk Hogan]

He's still looking at. But yeah, it's gonna be Gunther. It's a layup, dude.

[Pat McAfee]

It felt like Gunther is one of your favorites.

[Hulk Hogan]

Yes, I love Gunther. Everything he's about, dude.

[Pat McAfee]

Why do you love him?

[Hulk Hogan]

His makeup, his physique, his physicality. You name it, brother. I mean, Gunther's kind of the perfect WWE Superstar in my heart. Double opinion, dude.

[Pat McAfee]

So you got Gunther retaining, no doubt. Michael Cole, voice of the wwe. Do you have Gunther or Jay uso?

[Triple H]

I'm gonna have to split the table. As much as I want to eat tomorrow night, sir, I. I don't know how you stop Gunther.

[Hulk Hogan]

Yeah, well said, Cole.

[Razor Ramon]

Powerhouse, man.

[Hulk Hogan]

It's Gunther.

[Triple H]

The guy's an absolute machine.

[Pat McAfee]

I will not be making a pick because I would be a non biased journalist out there. But go to the next match, shall we? On WrestleMania Saturday, the new new day are taking on the Monday night AJ Hawk, you like the War Raiders and the new New Day. Give me the new new day. Wow.

[Michael Cole]

Okay.

[Pat McAfee]

Absolutely. They said terrible things about Biggie. We like Biggie. Yeah, they did. I love Biggie as well, you know, I just take it, you know. It's. It's competition. Things are said. Sometimes feelings are hurt.

[Roman Reigns]

But it's gonna be all right.

[Pat McAfee]

They'll get past it. CM Punk. Yeah. I've got all the respect in the world for the Viking Raiders. But they're the War Raiders.

[Triple H]

Come on, wake up.

[Pat McAfee]

But I'm gonna go with the new New Day, okay? This one. I like the cut of their jib More. Darius.

[Darius Butler]

Viking Raiders. Whatever.

[Pat McAfee]

More Raiders are there.

[Hulk Hogan]

Get the goddamn.

[Darius Butler]

I don't give a damn.

[Pat McAfee]

War. War. War. War.

[Triple H]

War.

[Hulk Hogan]

The new New Day.

[Pat McAfee]

What is it good for? Absolutely nothing. Say it again.

[Hulk Hogan]

What is it good for?

[Pat McAfee]

Nutelly nothing.

[Triple H]

Say it again.

[Darius Butler]

New New Day.

[Pat McAfee]

Okay. Razor Huromon.

[Razor Ramon]

You know, I think I know which way Oakster's going. So I'm gonna go ahead and do the New Day. Kofi Kingston, actually.

[Triple H]

What was that supposed.

[Pat McAfee]

From my hometown.

[Hulk Hogan]

I have no idea.

[Razor Ramon]

He's a big Patriots. He's a big Patriots fan as well. So the new New day. All day.

[Pat McAfee]

Okay, so New New day. New new day. New New day. New New Day. And Hulkster War Raiders vs the New New Day.

[Hulk Hogan]

Yeah, unfortunately, it's gonna be another layup for the Hulkster. Dude, I like the War Raiders. I do. I do.

[Pat McAfee]

Why is everybody just assuming that?

[Hulk Hogan]

I mean, I don't get. Again, there's. There's a couple guys up here who know what the WWE is all about. No wrestling. Okay, Hulks are a couple marks over here. That's fine. You know, you guys eat your popcorn, watch Baby on Saturday and Sunday. The Hulkster's gonna be breaking this thing down, dude. Okay, I'm sorry. The New Day just. I mean, they probably. Do they deserve to even be here in the first place? I don't believe so. I don't believe so. Dude.

[Pat McAfee]

Yes, they do.

[Hulk Hogan]

I don't believe.

[Pat McAfee]

Hall of Fame streamers, but they have certainly been insufferable. The Hulkster is picking against the new new.

[Hulk Hogan]

I love the War Raiders, man.

[Pat McAfee]

Nobody would have expected that.

[Hulk Hogan]

Sorry, brother.

[Pat McAfee]

It feels like that could have been a lot of teams. Michael Cole. New day.

[Triple H]

Wins a 12th tag title.

[Pat McAfee]

New New Day as well.

[Razor Ramon]

Boom.

[Pat McAfee]

Clean sweep. Almost for the new day. Except for one Hulkster. Let's go to the next match, shall we? This one is. This one is going to be talked about. El Grande Americano makes his WrestleMania Day debut against the greatest luchador of all time. Hooray. Mysterio. There was a clerical air that had El Grande Americano's hometown as a place that didn't exist whenever he was born. So he's obviously hail from Mexico. He's hailing from the Gulf of Mexico, which that was a big change over. But they just clerical where they said El Grande Americano has certainly done some things very quickly and captivated the audience since joining Monday Night Raw. Rey Mysterio, though living legend, used to the bright lights, lives in Vegas, I believe, so kind of a hometown fight for him. A.J. hawk, you like Rey Mysterio or El Grande Americano? El Grande Americano has been one of my favorites for the last couple weeks, I would say. I know Michael Cole has some issues with him, but I'm taking Rey Mysterio on this one. Wow. Have to. I respect. I respect what he has done this in this business town similar to CM Punk. El Grande Americana is jacked. Okay?

[Darius Butler]

He is.

[Pat McAfee]

So I'm gonna go with El Grande Americana. Okay. El Grande Americano wins in his debut at WrestleMania.

[Darius Butler]

El Grande Americano is great, but I'm going with the old head, the OG Triple OG Rey Mysterio.

[Pat McAfee]

Rey Mysterio with the win. Razor Ramon.

[Razor Ramon]

I'm a Dom Mysterio guy, so Ray can go to hell. I'm going with El Grande Americano.

[Pat McAfee]

Boom. Nobody's a Don Mysterio guy.

[Razor Ramon]

I am.

[Pat McAfee]

Hulkster. I think. I know.

[Hulk Hogan]

Well, I was actually going to say we can't do this here. Initially. You see the matchup, you immediately think, ty, like, maybe a double count out for both these guys. No, no, no. Victor out there, I will go with El Grande Americano under the stipulation, dude, if they change him back to the Gulf of America in honor of djt. If he does that, brother, then I like El Grande Americano. If not, I think we're probably looking at, like, a double countout situation. No one wins, unfortunately, dude, but everybody wins.

[Pat McAfee]

Do you get him a real Americano beer afterwards or what?

[Hulk Hogan]

Again, if he comes up to me privately and he's like, listen, I'm from the Gulf of America, dude, I don't know about this Gulf of America, Mexico, Mo. If he does that. Yeah, I'll drink a real American, be with him. Yeah, it's a. It's a great pilsner. You know, Cole.

[Pat McAfee]

Okay? Michael Cole.

[Triple H]

So I'm not shocked that the real American would go pick the real Olympian, Chad Gable.

[Pat McAfee]

That's not.

[Hulk Hogan]

Dude, I don't know that dude. I don't know that dude.

[Pat McAfee]

Stop spitting in the face of Chad Gable.

[Triple H]

At least he gets his WrestleMania moment. But Rey Mysterio is entering his 13th WrestleMania this year here. I'm going with Ray. Ray Is going to kick the booty out of chad gable at WrestleMania.

[Pat McAfee]

Wow. A little booty kicking action on WrestleMania Saturday. Let's go to the next match. This one is going to be tense. Jade Cargill versus Naomi. You go back to elimination chamber. When all of a sudden we thought we had the answer. Jade Cargill comes walking out in Toronto, Canada. We assume Liv Morgan is about to have to pay for running over Jaden. The back back with a car. It was Naomi all along. Bianca Belair's two best friends now in a vicious fight. They will settle it tomorrow night at WrestleMania. AJ, hawk your pick to win. Jade or the glow. I tell you what, Jade cargo I've been on on her bandwagon from the jump from when she came over here. Give me Jade Cargill right now. I'll take Jade. Saw Jade in the hotel yesterday. Say not betting against her. Jade.

[Michael Cole]

Jade.

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah.

[Darius Butler]

I don't like what Naomi's up to. I'm going with Jade as well.

[Pat McAfee]

Jeez, Jes.

[Razor Ramon]

I like the moochieso out of Naomi. I'm going with Naomi. I think the Flash is cool. I think the colors are sweet.

[Pat McAfee]

She ran over Jade.

[AJ Hawk]

Yeah.

[Razor Ramon]

And I think to run someone over, that takes a lot of moxie and, and, and a lot of gutsack. So I think we need to have more respect for that. And yeah, Jade Cargill, you know, she is jocked. But Naomi's just. She's technician. She knows what she's doing in there. And that's why I'm going with Naomi.

[Pat McAfee]

Hulkster, excited for you to make a pick here, honestly.

[Hulk Hogan]

There's another one where I think we could have double count out. I think there's a chance, brother. It's.

[Michael Cole]

It's tough.

[Hulk Hogan]

I haven't looked into this match, you know, as much as I probably should have. Not as you know, familiar with these competitors. But I'll be honest with you, dude. Cole, what are you laughing at, bro? About to give you elbow drop, dude. Followed by an atomic leg drop, brother. Honestly, give me Jade Cargill, cuz she looks like she might have 22s. 24s. Pretty similar to the Hulkster. I'll go with Jade Cargill. But again, don't discount the possibility of no contest, dude.

[Pat McAfee]

Sorry. Two in one day.

[Hulk Hogan]

Hey, it's my you, dude. You never know, brother.

[Pat McAfee]

What if it is the of count outs? What if every match has a double counter?

[Triple H]

Michael Cole, Jade Cargill bet the house on Jade Cargill. Naomi has no shot.

[Razor Ramon]

Everyone always has a shot.

[Pat McAfee]

I actually feel the glow a little bit. Okay, let's go to the next fight, shall we? This one also for some championship gold. Who will be our United States champion? Will it be L A or Jacob M? Samoan werewolf. I've been a fan of la Knights since I saw him, and obviously the first time I saw him was in a workout video with Triple H, like 15 years ago. He stuck to the grindstone, continued to be a chiseled animal. Stuck with it, grinded the hard. Rhodes was given absolutely nothing. Gets to the wwe, gets a microphone in his hand and he's managing models. Then he moves on from that, they let him be himself, and he is an absolute superstar. I love everything about L. A, but this Samoan werewolf is different. Jacob Fa2 is an absolute beast. AJ, who's going to be our United States champion after WrestleMania Saturday? Well, I think for all the reasons you laid out the. The path that he has taken. Give me L A Knight. Yeah, I didn't love what LA Knight did at the Rumble. You could ask Drew McIntyre about that one. And there was a full moon. Trying to get his sponsors. Yeah, there was a full moon last night.

[Triple H]

Give me the.

[Pat McAfee]

Give me the werewolf, Jacob. Five two.

[Darius Butler]

Okay, okay. I love the LA night and the. Yeah, yeah, that's cool. But failing of the bloodline video game cover with these boys and with Fatu.

[Pat McAfee]

Had to I love you solo.

[Darius Butler]

I got to go with the Fatu.

[Pat McAfee]

I love Jacob Fatu because he'll say in between those posts, coast to coast, something. Bar, bar, bar. Every time he has a microphone in front of him, slaughters. Oh, yeah. And every time he gets in the ring, steals the show. I could see why people think the Samoan werewolf's gonna win. Razor Ramone, who do you like?

[Razor Ramon]

Yeah, look, I mean, La Knight's been there, done that, and he. And this isn't his first rodeo. And it feels like hakam fat, too. Maybe he's a little bit off, a little more than he can chew. So I am also going to stick with aj. I'm going to go with L A Knight.

[Pat McAfee]

Hulkster, I think we know.

[Hulk Hogan]

Well, first and fore. Was it you? I will smack the teeth out of your mouth, Dude. Better watch it, brother. What the is Samoan werewolf? Dude, that's not even real. Okay, it is real.

[Pat McAfee]

Have you seen him? He's very real.

[Hulk Hogan]

I did see, Dire wolves are back, so maybe if that's like the same genus or species, then he would kill you. Maybe. Dude, whoop your ass, too. Cole, let's not, you know, puff our chest out, okay? Again, Again. You got. Listen, Adadvert's, up here.

[Pat McAfee]

Dude.

[Hulk Hogan]

You're down here, brother. So keep chopping away. Yeah, give me La Knight.

[Pat McAfee]

Nobody expected that out of you.

[Hulk Hogan]

What do you mean? I think I've been very unpredictable so far, brother. It's coming up. It's like, hey, who's. Because everybody wants to know too, dudes. Like, who's the Hulks? You're going to take who's the Hulks? You're going to piggy this one. I'm really invested.

[Pat McAfee]

What? Coro.

[Hulk Hogan]

Very similar. Which? Shout out. Go.

[Darius Butler]

Don't put Lee in a Hulkster.

[Pat McAfee]

You're right, you're right, you're right. You're nowhere near.

[Hulk Hogan]

You're right, you're right. Corso couldn't hold the Hulkster's jock.

[Pat McAfee]

Don't you ever.

[Hulk Hogan]

What do you mean, dude?

[Pat McAfee]

Don't you. I didn't say double count out.

[Razor Ramon]

They get it.

[Hulk Hogan]

Double count. That doesn't even apply. See, you morons are so. I mean, these marks out here are so stupid. They don't even know how to come back.

[Michael Cole]

Me.

[Hulk Hogan]

Give me something good if you're going to come at the Hulkster. Dude. Come on.

[Pat McAfee]

They're supporting you.

[Hulk Hogan]

I don't think so. I don't think.

[Michael Cole]

Double count out.

[Pat McAfee]

Michael Cole.

[Triple H]

Fatu.

[Pat McAfee]

Jacob Fatu. Okay, quick pick. Any reasoning behind it.

[Triple H]

Yeah, because he's a beast. He's an unbelievable athlete. Wait till we tell his story tomorrow.

[Pat McAfee]

I cannot wait to talk about Jacob Fatu and La Knight. Let's continue on WrestleMania Saturday night's card. Charlotte Flair, who's obviously goat conversation in this business, taking on. What time is it? Tiffany Stratton and Tiffy time. Tiffy's our champion. Charlotte Flair will obviously be the challenger. And I'll tell you what, I don't know the ins and outs of this business, but whoa.

[Triple H]

What.

[Hulk Hogan]

Kind of obnoxious dude.

[Pat McAfee]

I. I think. I think WWE Universe is not pulling for Charlotte Flair. I will say Charlotte's one of the greats that this company has ever seen. Great to see her back in the business, in the company. They are saying, though, that at the end of a little verbal joust sesh on smackdown, there were some things said to each other that were a little bit of a. A shoot brother.

[Hulk Hogan]

Oh. So do not work yourself into a shoot brother. All right?

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah, you're right. There is a lot of animosity in this one. We expect a very physical fight. AJ Hawk, do you have the champion young or the goat? Charlotte Flair, without a doubt. I think it's Tiffy time, Pat. Wow. A.J. what a pick. CM Punk, you know what time it is? I always know what time is it.

[Michael Cole]

Okay.

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah, that was gonna be.

[Darius Butler]

I didn't love what Charlotte did. Sneaking up on it. Want to steal her beating the out of battle like so. Yeah, it is Tiffy time.

[Hulk Hogan]

Wow. Hey, maybe one of these guys grows a brain, huh? And picks something different than the guy before him, huh?

[Pat McAfee]

Wouldn't that be nice?

[Hulk Hogan]

Wouldn't that be nice, brother?

[Pat McAfee]

For tv.

[Hulk Hogan]

Yeah. Thank you. You actually be disgusting yourself. Especially you see a punk.

[Pat McAfee]

Razor Ramon. Tiffy time or Charlotte Flair?

[Razor Ramon]

I mean, I agree with Hulkster one, but two, it ain't Tiffy time. It's Pacific time and it's screwing with me cuz I just looked at the clock. It's 11:30 and it's Charlotte Flair all day. Yeah, sure, she might have done some scummy things. You do what it takes to win.

[Hulk Hogan]

And.

[Razor Ramon]

And a person with the last name Flair knows that better than anyone. So give me Charlotte Flair.

[Pat McAfee]

Hulster.

[Hulk Hogan]

Yeah, it's going to be Charlotte Flair. Dude, you're talking about Ric Flair's daughter. Someone who goes in and puts this place over every time I come come in here. So yeah, give me Charlotte Flair. Dude.

[Pat McAfee]

He just picked the same guy.

[Darius Butler]

Yeah, same pick as Razor.

[Pat McAfee]

Same guy as the guy before him.

[Razor Ramon]

No, no, I. Cuz I. I took Naomi. He had a countout on the.

[Hulk Hogan]

Hey, you too. Keep it coming. You stop here.

[Pat McAfee]

Can we get back to the picks?

[Hulk Hogan]

I'm trying, I'm trying, dude.

[Pat McAfee]

Hulk. Sir, please. Jeez.

[Triple H]

14 world titles involved in the first ever women's main event at WrestleMania a number of years ago. So much experience. This is Tiffany's first WrestleMania. Why Charlotte Flair will dominate tomorrow.

[Pat McAfee]

Reset the clock. It is not tippy time. And the main event of the evening. Three names and men synonymous with dominating this era of professional wrestling. This era of sports entertainment have had a three headed horse leading the way. You have Seth freaking Rollins taking on CM and Naman, who is looking to get back to the top of this entire industry. The OTC Roman Reigns. This one is gonna shut the show down in spectacular fashion. This one has so much personal tension amongst the three of them that it's almost at a point of combustion. Paul Heyman, who is normally the wise man for Roman Reigns, will actually be the best friend of CM Punk in his corner. Roman battles alone. Seth freakin Rollins told Paul Heyman that he owes him a favor as well because Seth didn't squish Paul Heyman's head through a ring to two weeks ago. Aj. This one could go any direction. This one could be a triple count out. This one could be all three men not able to get back on their.

[Triple H]

Feet because there are no countouts in a triple threat.

[Hulk Hogan]

This one you don't know yet. Anything can happen.

[Pat McAfee]

All three of these men could die out here. Aj, who do you have? I love the animosity between these three, but we know where I'm going.

[Razor Ramon]

Amen. We don't have time. Pick on this one.

[Pat McAfee]

He was out here. We saw him. We got to pick this guy next to me. I can't pick this guy. Roman Reigns. Roman Reigns. Roman Reigns. Roman Reigns.

[AJ Hawk]

Let's put it up.

[Pat McAfee]

The table has selected, except for one person, CM Punk. Fun fact. I'm only dressed like this today because CM Punk has a beard and similar hair.

[Michael Cole]

Oh.

[Pat McAfee]

Clean sweep for our tribal chief, Roman reigns. Okay, that's WrestleMania Saturday. Let's get to WrestleMania Sunday. Kicking off night two. Iyo sky, our women's World champion, taking on Est, Bianca Belair and Ria Bloody Ripley out of Australia. She joined us earlier. Obviously the vibes are high. She looks confident and calm heading into yet another WrestleMania title match. EO sky is our champion. Kind of not been chatted about much. And then Bianca Belair is used to having gold around her waist as well. Should be electrifying to start on Sunday, aj. Who wins? Well, we saw Mommy was out here earlier. She's an impressive, impressive performer. But Eo sky, give me. Give me Eo Sky. She's been under the radar like you said. She's in a great spot. No one's talking about her. She's gonna die. Eos guy's been counting out aj. I know that's what you like. That's what Chip on the shoulder. Give me more chip. Just keep stacking those chips. Let's give it to her.

[Michael Cole]

Bomby.

[Pat McAfee]

Enough said. Rhea Ripley from Tone.

[Darius Butler]

I did appreciate Mommy and her aura, but I'm going to est. I'm going. Bianca Beer. The beautiful beer.

[Pat McAfee]

Hulk's picking. Relax. Yeah, it's hard. I think we're starting to get a kind of a trend. Maybe.

[Darius Butler]

What's that?

[Pat McAfee]

Analytics on this table.

[Hulk Hogan]

Just what you think you know, Razor. You might not.

[Pat McAfee]

Razor. Okay. Just Razor Ramone. Who's your pick?

[Razor Ramon]

It's the easiest one.

[Hulk Hogan]

Ria Ripley.

[Pat McAfee]

Okay. Razor loves. Not even close, Hulkster.

[Hulk Hogan]

Listen, the Hulkster ain't introducing himself to too many people as Terry Boulevard Brother. Okay? And that's what I did right up here to Rio. So, yeah, give me Mommy a landslide.

[Pat McAfee]

You love Mommy. To win this quick and easy.

[Hulk Hogan]

Yeah, well, I like seeing mommy perform out there, so maybe we, you know, extend it a little bit, but. But, yeah, Mommy's. Mommy's. She's taking this one.

[Pat McAfee]

Okay, so we got EOS guy pick. We got an EST pick. We got a Rhea Ripley. Multiple picks. Michael Cole. Who do you like?

[Triple H]

Iyo Sky.

[Pat McAfee]

Okay.

[Triple H]

Retains the title.

[Michael Cole]

Wow.

[Pat McAfee]

That would be a massive win for Iyo sky, who is our champion. Next match on WrestleMania Sunday is a tag team title match. The champions are the only women's tag team to ever be the tag team champs three times. They call themselves the greatest women's tag team of all time. Liv Morgan and Raquel Rodriguez of the Judgment Day take on Lyra Valkyria and Bailey, who literally just became a tag team two weeks ago. But both of them say, wow, we're our best selves when we're working together. Will that be enough to beat The Judgment Day, A.J. hawk? No, it will not.

[Michael Cole]

Live in.

[Pat McAfee]

Raquel, continue to roll. Here, Pat. Give me them. Yeah, Liv's got a bit of crazy.

[Michael Cole]

In her, and I don't bet against crazy, so give me.

[Pat McAfee]

Give me Liv.

[Darius Butler]

Yeah, I notice my picks the Hulkster off because I'm going with them as well. Give me live in the Judgment Day.

[Hulk Hogan]

N. I respect that one.

[Michael Cole]

Yeah.

[Razor Ramon]

I mean, it just reeks people who don't watch the product, because if we're talking about crazy, we're talking about Valkyria.

[Pat McAfee]

She.

[Razor Ramon]

She's an absolute nut job. Bailey, I mean, she's been there, done that as well. This isn't her first rodeo. Living Raquel, they're scumbags. And I think Valkyria and Bailey bring it home. I think Valkyrie is on that kind of, you know, Rhea Ripley trajectory after her debut post nxt, so I love what they're doing.

[Pat McAfee]

Didn't you just say you were a dom guy a few minutes ago?

[Razor Ramon]

Yeah, I didn't say I was a live guy, brother.

[Pat McAfee]

That's his girlfriend, so I.

[Razor Ramon]

He wouldn't be the only guy's girlfriend I hate.

[Hulk Hogan]

Okay, Valid duche, dude.

[Pat McAfee]

Valid, Valid. Very valid. Hulkster, who do you have in this tag team title match?

[Hulk Hogan]

This one's tough for me. Both these tag teams just smooth as butter, dude. Like, seriously, brother, I love watching them work in the ring. I'm a Bailey guy, though, so, you know, I honestly, I don't care what Bailey's doing, who she's doing it with. I. I ride for Bailey, dude. So I'm going. Go with Bailey and Valkyria. Whatever. The hell her name is. Yeah, I'll go her.

[Pat McAfee]

She's the intercontinental champion.

[Hulk Hogan]

I know, and I respect the hell out of her.

[Pat McAfee]

She had three this is awesome chants two weeks ago from one of her matches.

[Hulk Hogan]

She is awesome and I get that. I'll. I'll level with you guys. Holster's got a pretty good headache and I might be having like a brain aneurysm, so. That'd be a shame. A couple things are kind of coming and going as. As we get closer to the end of the show here. Dude, I'd love another ice cold beer as well. Dude, there's a bunch left.

[Pat McAfee]

There's a bunch left.

[Darius Butler]

He finally drunk a good one.

[Pat McAfee]

He thought on your real American beer.

[Hulk Hogan]

Who did?

[Pat McAfee]

Barry's butler.

[Triple H]

So which beer?

[Hulk Hogan]

Hey, guess what debut. We don't want you buying it anyway.

[Pat McAfee]

He was born in. Jerk, everybody.

[Hulk Hogan]

He was born in.

[Michael Cole]

He was born in Germany.

[Hulk Hogan]

Debo was born in Germany. He was born. Hey, yeah, he's got bags. He was born on a military base in Germany. That's what I bet. Come on, dude.

[Darius Butler]

Military base.

[Pat McAfee]

Military base was more American. More American.

[Hulk Hogan]

Still Germany. Not. Not in the U.S. what.

[Triple H]

What beer do you like better? Broken Skull IPA or the Real American stuff?

[Pat McAfee]

We don't have to do that.

[Triple H]

Okay. Anyway, living broke. Raquel will win.

[Pat McAfee]

Wow, you don't like Lyra and Bailey?

[Triple H]

They've only teamed together once. They ran a gauntlet. They did great, but they've only been a team together once. The other teams won three tag team titles together and there's no way they lose.

[Pat McAfee]

All right, let's get to the next one. Boy, this is going to be. This is potential show stealing weekend stealing. Iconic moments littered throughout the phenomenal AJ takes on the maverick, Logan Paul.

[Triple H]

I have a logger.

[Pat McAfee]

First we get a couple loggers. Logan Paul has been able to take to basically every business he has tried to get into. He has a titanium plate in his fist. One punch changes the entire outcome. The Pulverizer is absolutely absurd. But AJ Styles, one of the greatest men to ever step foot into a ring, wrestling ring, and has been for the better part of the last three decades. Should be electrifying on WrestleMania Sunday. AJ, who do you have? I think this is going to be one of those high flyer matches. But Logan Paul. I'm from Ohio, Pat. Logan Paul is from Ohio. I'm sticking with Logan Paul here. Fun match.

[Triple H]

That sound strategy.

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah, it is. It is. Punk, is AJ style still wearing gloves? Yes, AJ Styles. Oh, okay. The phenomenal one.

[Darius Butler]

I got it. I mean, I Love some good heat from the hill. And nobody's getting more heat right now than the Maverick. And I would love to see another pulverizer to end it. So I think this will be the best match of the weekend from my perspective. I'm going with the Maverick, Logan Paul.

[Pat McAfee]

Okay. Logan Paul wins, says Deebot Razor. Yeah.

[Razor Ramon]

Jay Styles does that weird thing with his hands where he throws up like an Illuminati triangle before. Before his matches. Yeah, it's weird. I like Logan Paul. Logan Paul puts on a show no matter what. So I think he'll put on a show and I don't know, who knows since these people always and cry when he wins, they'll probably have him go under and AJ Styles win because he's old.

[Pat McAfee]

No, don't get so.

[Hulk Hogan]

Don't be so cynical, dude.

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah, don't be so negative.

[Razor Ramon]

That's what happens sometimes, man.

[Pat McAfee]

Both trying to hulster.

[Hulk Hogan]

Who do you think again, the booking of this is just incredible. Nar talking one for me, but I think I like the Maverick. The Pulverizer, I'd say is probably the second greatest finisher in the history of the wwe. Maybe outside the atomic leg drop, of course. Nothing's ever touching that. You know, it's funny. Only regret should. Another sleeper hole for my finisher with the pothos. You know, my hips are all up from the leg drop, but. But yeah, I did hit.

[Pat McAfee]

Only regret it.

[Hulk Hogan]

Only regret of my life, believe it or not. But yeah, dude, give me Logan Paul. You got to go with the Maverick, man. It's his time. It's his time, brother.

[Pat McAfee]

He came out with an American flag in Canada as well.

[Hulk Hogan]

Yeah. Let's just say I like that as well.

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah. Yeah. Michael Cole.

[Triple H]

I've never seen anyone take to this business like Logan Paul. And he's going to continue to steal the show at WrestleMania and in Beat AJ Styles.

[Pat McAfee]

Oh, out of Logan Paul here.

[Razor Ramon]

Didn't see that coming.

[Pat McAfee]

Let's go to the next match, shall we? It is electric. Fatal Four way for the intercontinental title. Representing Judgment Day. Dirty Dominic Mysterio.

[Hulk Hogan]

Yeah.

[Pat McAfee]

We go. Dom and Finn Balor. A man that you have to experience to truly appreciate. I cannot wait for WrestleMania to get a chance to experience him. A man who has cello penta takes on a man who was born to be in this business. He's more explosive than anybody. And when he shows up the dogs in every city, he comes to our intercontinental champion. Braun Breaker, the holder of the super spear, the sar of men. Will he walk out of WrestleMania's Intercontinental Champion, AJ Hawk, give me Braun Breaker all down. He's going to break somebody in half. Like David Blaine splits people's legs from their torso one of these times. So, Braun Breaker, no question, that was Criss Angel.

[Triple H]

You're right, David.

[Hulk Hogan]

Take a lap, dude.

[Pat McAfee]

Vegas magician, different magician. But that was Criss Angel. Who saw it wasn't Michael Malone though. He swallowed needles. The dogs are barking says AJ Hawk. CM Punk.

[Hulk Hogan]

Do you agree?

[Michael Cole]

Yeah.

[Pat McAfee]

In our office in the Thunderdome, I watched Braun breaker saw a 500 pound man in half. Oh yeah. I can't get that on my head.

[Hulk Hogan]

Give me brawn.

[Pat McAfee]

500 pound man. 500 pounds.

[Darius Butler]

How fast does Brian get up to how many miles per hour?

[Triple H]

23.

[Darius Butler]

23 miles. You know what? It won't be fast enough. I'm going with absolute pure electricity. Penta too dynamic.

[AJ Hawk]

I cannot wait.

[Pat McAfee]

What are you saying? You're saying that he has zero. He's awesome.

[Darius Butler]

And his interest through that walk.

[Razor Ramon]

Yeah, it looks familiar. Hey, yo, look. Pent is great and he invented that thing, which I think is cool too. And his entrance is sweet. And you know Finn Bauer, great guy. But Demon's not showing up, so I can't. I don't see Finn winning. Bron Breaker moves a million miles an hour. He gets distracted and I think when Penta does the thing that he created, he's gonna do it. And maybe. Maybe Braun kind of gets kind confused and then guess who's sliding in for the victory.

[Pat McAfee]

Who?

[Razor Ramon]

Dirty Dom, baby. Dom's going over. Dom's going over. I like him to win.

[Pat McAfee]

Hulster, do you agree with Raza Heron?

[Hulk Hogan]

No, I don't. It's going to be a pretty quick one, dude. I'm going to go with Broad Breaker. All the other guys I'm not huge fans of, you know, their. Their work in rig. So I'm going go Bra Breaker. Let's just leave it at that. We don't need to.

[Pat McAfee]

Hexa is obviously luchador from.

[Hulk Hogan]

Oh, he is. I didn't know that, dude. I thought he's from San Diego.

[Pat McAfee]

Finn Balor, from Ireland, obviously.

[Hulk Hogan]

Yeah.

[Pat McAfee]

Dominic Mysterio, he's from Mexico, right?

[Razor Ramon]

Dude, that was New Jersey.

[Pat McAfee]

San Diego, I think. Yeah.

[Triple H]

San Diego, California.

[Hulk Hogan]

You know what? We don't need to get. Don't get me shocked. I'm not a huge San Diego guy. Okay.

[Pat McAfee]

Louisiana.

[Razor Ramon]

California.

[AJ Hawk]

Yeah.

[Hulk Hogan]

Whole deal. Love Vegas, though. Love the Vegas, baby.

[Pat McAfee]

Love Vegas. Braun Breaker sawing them all down.

[Hulk Hogan]

Yes, he is, dude.

[Pat McAfee]

Michael Cole, do you agree?

[Triple H]

No.

[Pat McAfee]

What?

[Triple H]

Because it's a fatal four way, which means there's no champions advantage.

[Pat McAfee]

Yeah, we know.

[Triple H]

I'm not going to pick an actual winner, but I am going to pick a particular group. I think someone from the Judgment Day will become the intercontinental champion at WrestleMania.

[Pat McAfee]

I get to pick half the.

[Hulk Hogan]

Yeah, 50% chance, dude.

[Pat McAfee]

Pretty good.

[Razor Ramon]

Okay, dude.

[Pat McAfee]

Do you think they were guys, do you think they remain on the same side throughout all, or are they going to turn on each other in there?

[Triple H]

I think they're going to remain on the same side because they've been planting these seeds for so long that there's this dissension. I think that Finn and Dom are going to realize. Let's do what's best for the group and finally make this group powerful again.

[Pat McAfee]

All right, so the judgment day gets a win, says Michael Cole.

[Hulk Hogan]

Hi, brother.

[Pat McAfee]

Let's speak about people that used to be in the Judgment day. One of the founding fathers of the judgment day. No longer. Now over on smackdown doing his thing. Massive WrestleMania moment for Damian Pritchard Priest, who's taking on the Scottish warrior Drew McIntyre. Drew did do's and do nots for fans coming out to Vegas. I think a lot of wrestlers are very appreciative of that. He takes on a striking precision champ in Damian Priest.

[Triple H]

And remember, it's a Sin City street fight.

[Hulk Hogan]

Yeah. No rules.

[Razor Ramon]

Changes a lot.

[Hulk Hogan]

All bets are off.

[Pat McAfee]

Roll sins. Damian priest, Drew McIntyre, A.J. hawk. Who wins if there's no rules, I'm going Drew McIntyre all night. He might chop somebody's head off. Maybe one of the fans, who knows? But Give me Drew McIntyre all day long. CM Punk. Not one, not two, but three Claymore kicks. That was a great accent. Yeah. What accent was that?

[Michael Cole]

Where's that from?

[Hulk Hogan]

Sound like you went to Hogwarts.

[Pat McAfee]

That was Scottish. What are we talking about? Of course. Inar. You think there's going to be 3? 3 clo kicks to the head of Damen Priest.

[Hulk Hogan]

Yeah.

[Pat McAfee]

Tree. Darius Butler. Who do you like?

[Darius Butler]

I did love Drew laying out the dos and don'ts, but he pops a little too much for me. I'm going with Damian Priest.

[Hulk Hogan]

Wow.

[Roman Reigns]

Yeah.

[Pat McAfee]

Give me Damon. Yeah.

[Razor Ramon]

I think McIntyre is a little bit of a Potter as well. I think that was very well put. Good analyzed by you. And I also think Damian pr, He's got axe grind back against the wall. And if. If I do recall, Judgment day is why Aaron. Aaron Judge has his last name and that is also why Damian Priest is a big Yankees fan and because of how well Aaron is doing. All rise. Aaron Judge kind of stole that from him. But with that being said, I like Priest to win.

[Pat McAfee]

Okay, Hulkster, do you agree?

[Hulk Hogan]

Guess what, people. I have been a massive fan of the Artist Formerly Known as Punishment Martinez for a long time. Dude, I love David Priest. Absolutely love this guy. And we talk about Sin City street fight again. All the bitching and potting that Drew McIntyre's been doing. Guess what? You see someone on the streets, you're doing that. What's gonna happen, Cole?

[Triple H]

What's gonna happen?

[Hulk Hogan]

Probably gonna get your teeth knocked out, okay? Because nobody cares. Especially not a guy like Damian Priest. Brother, give me Damien Priest. I love that guy, man. I love his machismo, I love his moxie. And yeah, it doesn't hurt that he's from the BX and he's. He's throwing out multiple first pitches at Yankees games.

[Pat McAfee]

Dude, this is strictly because he's a Yankees fan again.

[Hulk Hogan]

I've. I've ridden with Punishment Martinez to through the midst of Avalon for a long time, brother.

[Razor Ramon]

Cuz he was in that hot tub.

[Hulk Hogan]

He was. Hell yeah. Hell yeah. Hell yeah. Did that like 40 times vibes. It was one of the sickest segments I've ever seen in wwe.

[Pat McAfee]

That was an NXT when he won the title.

[Hulk Hogan]

It was. I'm talking WWE Universe, dude. The people that actually hate my gut. So I'm still kind of a little bitter about that. But I love, love David Priest. Dude. Give me him this Den City street fight.

[Triple H]

Let's not forget the Priest is in Drew's head. Last year at WrestleMania.

[AJ Hawk]

Oh, oh yeah.

[Triple H]

Drew McIntyre won the world title. Held it for just over five minutes before Damian Priest cashed in to win. Priest is still in McIntyre set and will win at WrestleMania.

[Pat McAfee]

Drew McIntyre is going to be patent is what the boys say. Damian Priest going to get a win now. It's for the main event of WrestleMania. A man finished his story one year ago, has been the champion ever since. Has been an honorable champion for the the wwe. Obviously born for the moment. Cody Rhodes defends his title against a goat. A man who looks familiar but is acting vastly different. John Cena is trying to eclipse history in the history of the WWE. He would become a 17 time world champion, which would be the most of anybody in the history of the industry if he beat Cody Rhodes. A.J. hawk, does John Cena get the job done, Pat? The goat stays the goat. John Cena all night long.

[Razor Ramon]

So.

[Pat McAfee]

I don't give a what Cody Rhodes wants to talk about. Okay?

[Roman Reigns]

Come on.

[Pat McAfee]

Oa. John Cena. John Cena. Darius J. Butler.

[Darius Butler]

I'mma keep it going. He shocked the world when he turned hill. But he hasn't told one lie yet. Nevering. Even when he. When he made that kid feel like pointing. Yeah, I mean, it's part of it. He had to say what he had to say. So. Yeah, Cena. I hope he doesn't ruin the business. Maybe he does, but he breaks the record going Cena all day.

[Razor Ramon]

You know, Deebot said John Cena hasn't told a lie. Maybe that's true, but he's told a lie about being a Marine. And I don't stand with that.

[Pat McAfee]

He was an actor.

[Razor Ramon]

I don't stand with that.

[Pat McAfee]

One time he was in a movie.

[AJ Hawk]

Not.

[Razor Ramon]

Not now, not ever, okay?

[Michael Cole]

He killed.

[Razor Ramon]

American Nightmare is coming to Vegas and he's taking care of business. And John Cena, you will be seen as a fraud and a faker by Cody Rhodes.

[Pat McAfee]

Whoa, sorry brother.

[Razor Ramon]

Your time is up.

[Hulk Hogan]

It ain't now. Cody Rhodes all day.

[Pat McAfee]

American Nightmare, first selection of Cody Rhodes here from the panel. Will Hulster follow suit or will Hulster pick Mount Rushmore brethren? John Cena.

[Hulk Hogan]

Could be. It's one of those things, Pat, where I really don't care who wins this one. I'm.

[Pat McAfee]

When I.

[Hulk Hogan]

When I break this down, when I look at it analytically, okay.

[Pat McAfee]

I'm looking at things analysis analytically.

[Hulk Hogan]

I mean, what are we doing here? What are we doing here, dudes? Are we not trying to figure out, you know, what's going on? These are two guys who are never going to be as good as I was, period. You know, it's kind of just. It's kind of just where I leave things. I'd like to see, you know, Cena again, my brother. And also the Marine's a great movie. Okay. Not quite as good as the Nanny, a movie I started back in 1994. Or three ninjas, high noon at Mega Mountain. Dave Dragon, always the whole. A special place in my heart, brother. But yeah, give me Cena. I love Cena. He's. He's that dude. And again, Cody, you know, going up, doing the rounds, being the corp corporate guy. I don't with that because the hoaxers for the people. Whether or not the people respect him or like him. See, after he gave his entire goddamn life to the business, you know, but they don't care. But yeah, give me Cena, dude. See this?

[Pat McAfee]

Hold on.

[Razor Ramon]

Corporate sold out Hulkster to. To not just the corporations, but to the corporation. The red one.

[Hulk Hogan]

Hey, shut up, fat ass. I'm looking at you, pal. Yeah, you, you. Hey. Boom boom. 22s, 24s you can come get him anytime you want, brother.

[Pat McAfee]

All right. Michael Cole.

[Triple H]

You know, I'm so torn in this match because both these guys have meant so much to me in my career. Despite what Jon has done the last few weeks, I still think he's the greatest of all time. I would love to see him beat the record and have 17 world titles. I think he deserves it for everything he's given to the business. But I got to go with Cody. I think it's Cody's night.

[Pat McAfee]

Wow.

[Darius Butler]

Cody Crow.

[Pat McAfee]

Hell, yeah. Cool.

[Hulk Hogan]

You're such a ass kisser, dude.

[Triple H]

I believe in Cody. I think Cody's going to do it.

[Pat McAfee]

All right. And I believe that WrestleMania is going to be spectacular. We can't thank you all enough for hanging out with us.

[Darius Butler]

I believe you, Jo.

[Triple H]

We'll be here Monday too, right?

[Pat McAfee]

We will be back here live Monday with all the fallout and assume there's going to be massive guests from the weekend on Monday with us. So hopefully you'll come back and join us. And if you're at home watching, this weekend is a great weekend to escape life, to disappear into a world that is the greatest of all time. If you just let it take you on a ride, there's going to be so many magical moments. There's going to be such a spectacle. There's going to be moments that will live on forever. This weekend. I am incredibly lucky to be a part of the weekend. Michael Cole obviously has done 28 of these, so he is the goat. The boys and I, anytime we get invited to do something like this, we jump at the opportunity because we understand how big of an honor it is to get a chance, chance to be a part of this magical spectacle that is going to dominate the weekend. So from all of us here at WWE World, to all of you watching at home, have a phenomenal WrestleMania weekend and be a friend. Tell a friend something nice. It might change their life. We're in this thing together. Team on me. Team on three. One, two, three. Team. Cheers. Have a great mania weekend, baby. Hey, I'm Brad Milke. You may know me as the host of ABC Audio's daily news podcast. Start here. But I'd like to add aspiring true crime expert to my resume.

[Michael Cole]

And here's how I'm gonna make it happen. Every week, I'm gonna unpack the biggest.

[Pat McAfee]

True crime story that everyone is talking about. ABC's got some unique access here. So I'll talk to the reporters and producers who have followed these cases for months, sometimes years. We're bringing the latest developments and the larger context on the true crime stories.

[Michael Cole]

You'Ve been hearing about.

[Pat McAfee]

Follow the crime scene for special access to the people who know these stories best. Rapper Sean Diddy Combs was a king maker. He had wealth, fame and power until.

[Rhea Ripley]

It all came crashing through federal investigators raiding two homes owned by hip hop.

[Pat McAfee]

Mogul Sean Diddy Combs. I'm Brian Buckmire, an ABC News legal contributor. As Diddy heads to trial, we trace his remarkable rise and fall. And what could be next. Listen to Bad Rap the Case Against Diddy, a new series from ABC Audio. Listen now wherever you get your podcasts.