Hosted by longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP) and Houston-based rapper & songwriter Dwayne Swayze, Marking Out takes you inside the world of professional wrestling like never before. This episode begins with the origin story behind the Hurt Syndicate's theme music. MVP breaks down how the track came together with Smoke DZA, Westside Gunn, and producer Cartune Beatz—from beat edits and recording sessions to that now-iconic “We Hurt People” hook. He reveals behind-the-scenes insights into how AEW licensed the track, what makes it hit with live crowds, and how the song became an underground anthem across arenas and indie shows.

From there, the conversation shifts into the differences between indie wrestling and working for major companies like AEW and WWE. MVP draws comparisons between small-stage hustle and big-league polish, highlighting the challenges indie wrestlers face when transitioning to televised work. He discusses how talent should adapt for the hard cam, build locker room equity, and embrace professionalism as a standard—not an exception.

MVP also shares stories from his early days working televised matches in Florida, his time learning from veterans like Steve Keirn and Dutch Mantell, and his experience adjusting to WWE’s production system under Vince McMahon. The episode closes with real talk about locker room dynamics, dressing room etiquette, and how company culture shapes what goes on behind the curtain. —all with raw, unfiltered insight from one of the most respected veterans in the business.

Get early access, exclusive behind-the-scenes, and bonus content you won’t find anywhere else. Unlock the real story behind the squared circle—join our Patreon now → https://www.patreon.com/TheMarkingOutShow 🔥

Enjoying the show? Houston rapper & songwriter Dwayne Swayze brings the same storytelling precision to his music. Experience his latest tracks on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3CFDVhx & Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/dwayne-swayze/1368365090. Follow for exclusive updates.

About Marking Out with MVP and Dwayne Swayze: Marking Out is a weekly wrestling podcast hosted by longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP)—a professional wrestling veteran with over 20 years in the business—and Dwayne Swayze, a rapper with a deep love for the sport. Every Monday, MVP pulls back the curtain on pro wrestling, breaking down its history, behind-the-scenes moments, and the psychology that makes it all work. With firsthand experience in the ring, he shares unfiltered insight, legendary road stories, and deep dives into promos, match strategy, and the business behind the spectacle. No topic is off-limits. Subscribe for real talk, real stories, and a fresh perspective on the world of professional wrestling.

Hosted by longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP) and Houston-based rapper & songwriter Dwayne Swayze, Marking Out takes you inside the world of professional wrestling like never before. In this episode, MVP pulls back the curtain on the physical toll, financial realities, and emotional challenges that come with life in—and after—the ring. He shares how evolving medical standards in WWE and AEW changed the culture around injuries, and why disclosure is now mandatory, not optional. From nearly missing a major pay-per-view due to a groin injury to receiving PRP treatments and compression gear, MVP walks through how care has improved since the early days of taping yourself up and hiding the pain.

MVP also reveals the backstory behind Bobby Lashley’s Impact World Championship win, explaining how his own sudden knee injury abroad led to Lashley being brought in—and why he has zero regrets about stepping aside. The conversation then shifts to the economics of wrestling: how AEW covers travel and hotels while WWE talent pay out-of-pocket for road expenses. MVP breaks down why six-figure contracts can be misleading when factoring in those costs, and discusses the gender pay gap in pro wrestling, giving props to pioneers like Gail Kim and Mickie James.

The episode closes with a sobering but honest look at what happens when the spotlight fades. MVP reflects on former stars who now work regular jobs, the instability of indie bookings, and how many wrestlers struggle after their TV run ends. Despite the harsh truths, he expresses deep gratitude for still being relevant after 20+ years, while reminding fans: not everyone makes it, and even fewer stay.

All with raw, unfiltered insight from one of the most respected veterans in the business.

Get early access, exclusive behind-the-scenes, and bonus content you won’t find anywhere else. Unlock the real story behind the squared circle—join our Patreon now → https://www.patreon.com/TheMarkingOutShow 🔥

Enjoying the show? Houston rapper & songwriter Dwayne Swayze brings the same storytelling precision to his music. Experience his latest tracks on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3CFDVhx & Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/dwayne-swayze/1368365090. Follow for exclusive updates.

This episode is a must-listen for wrestling fans who want to go beyond WWE and AEW’s scripted world and hear firsthand from one of the industry’s most respected veterans.

About Marking Out with MVP and Dwayne Swayze:

Marking Out is a weekly wrestling podcast hosted by longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP)—a professional wrestling veteran with over 20 years in the business—and Dwayne Swayze, a rapper with a deep love for the sport. Every Monday, MVP pulls back the curtain on pro wrestling, breaking down its history, behind-the-scenes moments, and the psychology that makes it all work. With firsthand experience in the ring, he shares unfiltered insight, legendary road stories, and deep dives into promos, match strategy, and the business behind the spectacle. No topic is off-limits. Subscribe for real talk, real stories, and a fresh perspective on the world of professional wrestling.

Hosted by longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP) and Houston-based rapper & songwriter Dwayne Swayze, Marking Out takes you inside the world of professional wrestling like never before. In this episode, MVP reconnects with Gangrel at a Coastal Championship Wrestling anniversary show in South Florida. Originally slated for a one-on-one bout, their match shifts into a tag-team showdown after some overzealous newcomers interrupt—and get taught a lesson. MVP reflects on the moment and speaks candidly about preparing for a retirement tour.

He then breaks down what it takes to truly stand out as a young wrestler. From punctuality and presentation to professionalism and safety, MVP offers real-world advice drawn from his years in the business. He shares stories from his early indie days, training in Japan, and the importance of building a reputation for being dependable and coachable.

Dwayne opens up a conversation on promo work, prompting MVP to dive deep into the art of mic skills. MVP compares WWE’s script-heavy style to AEW’s looser approach, details the chemistry of trading lines with Ric Flair, and shares insights on working with talents like Randy Orton and MJF. He emphasizes how impactful promos can elevate a career more than any athletic move.

The episode wraps with a brief tease of a controversial TNA promo MVP cut live—one that stirred real conversation across the industry and will be explored more in future episodes.

—all with raw, unfiltered insight from one of the most respected veterans in the business.

Get early access, exclusive behind-the-scenes, and bonus content you won’t find anywhere else. Unlock the real story behind the squared circle—join our Patreon now → https://www.patreon.com/TheMarkingOutShow 🔥

Enjoying the show? Houston rapper & songwriter Dwayne Swayze brings the same storytelling precision to his music. Experience his latest tracks on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3CFDVhx & Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/dwayne-swayze/1368365090. Follow for exclusive updates.

This episode is a must-listen for wrestling fans who want to go beyond WWE and AEW’s scripted world and hear firsthand from one of the industry’s most respected veterans.

About Marking Out with MVP and Dwayne Swayze:

Marking Out is a weekly wrestling podcast hosted by longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP)—a professional wrestling veteran with over 20 years in the business—and Dwayne Swayze, a rapper with a deep love for the sport. Every Monday, MVP pulls back the curtain on pro wrestling, breaking down its history, behind-the-scenes moments, and the psychology that makes it all work. With firsthand experience in the ring, he shares unfiltered insight, legendary road stories, and deep dives into promos, match strategy, and the business behind the spectacle. No topic is off-limits. Subscribe for real talk, real stories, and a fresh perspective on the world of professional wrestling.

Hosted by longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP) and Houston-based rapper & songwriter Dwayne Swayze, Marking Out takes you inside the world of professional wrestling like never before. In this episode, MVP breaks down locker room heat—what it is, how to avoid it, and why disrespect can make life on the road miserable. He shares stories of The Miz being kicked out of the locker room by Chris Benoit, Muhammad Hassan’s infamous clash with Eddie Guerrero, and Boogeyman’s unforgettable worm incident.

MVP also recaps WrestleMania week in Las Vegas, from Slamfest and WrestleCon to a midnight Fourth Rope Wrestling show that kept fans going until 4:30 AM. He reflects on the energy of the fans and the culture of Mania week beyond WWE’s main event.

The conversation shifts to calling matches on the fly, with MVP explaining the importance of trust in the ring. He shares a tense moment with Teddy Hart, where safety took priority over risky showmanship, and explains why he always puts professionalism first—especially when working with someone new.

MVP also tackles the mythical "push," revealing how management, not the crowd, often picks who gets the spotlight. He discusses how Daniel Bryan and Kofi Kingston forced WWE’s hand by getting over with the fans and gives indie wrestlers a reality check on understanding their value—emphasizing that if you’re not drawing crowds or selling merch, the business will pass you by.

Throughout the episode, MVP contrasts the old-school locker room culture with today’s more corporate environment, all while highlighting the timeless art of storytelling in the ring.

All with raw, unfiltered insight from one of the most respected veterans in the business.

Get early access, exclusive behind-the-scenes, and bonus content you won’t find anywhere else. Unlock the real story behind the squared circle—join our Patreon now → https://www.patreon.com/TheMarkingOutShow

Enjoying the show? Houston rapper & songwriter Dwayne Swayze brings the same storytelling precision to his music. Experience his latest tracks on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3CFDVhx & Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/dwayne-swayze/1368365090. Follow for exclusive updates.

This episode is a must-listen for wrestling fans who want to go beyond WWE and AEW’s scripted world and hear firsthand from one of the industry’s most respected veterans.

About Marking Out with MVP and Dwayne Swayze:

Marking Out is a weekly wrestling podcast hosted by longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP)—a professional wrestling veteran with over 20 years in the business—and Dwayne Swayze, a rapper with a deep love for the sport. Every Monday, MVP pulls back the curtain on pro wrestling, breaking down its history, behind-the-scenes moments, and the psychology that makes it all work. With firsthand experience in the ring, he shares unfiltered insight, legendary road stories, and deep dives into promos, match strategy, and the business behind the spectacle. No topic is off-limits. Subscribe for real talk, real stories, and a fresh perspective on the world of professional wrestling.

Hosted by longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP) and Houston-based rapper & songwriter Dwayne Swayze, Marking Out takes you inside the world of professional wrestling like never before. This episode explores what it truly takes to build trust, chemistry, and long-term credibility between wrestlers—especially while working nonstop on the road. MVP breaks down how weekly live events act as real-time training for televised matches, helping wrestlers sharpen timing, adapt in the moment, and connect with audiences without relying on rehearsals or planned spots.

MVP shares stories that highlight the value of instinct and trust. One standout: a live event match in Tupelo, Mississippi with Shelton Benjamin, called entirely on the fly. With Edge and The Great Khali injured and headlining, MVP and Shelton knew the show rested on their shoulders—and their performance earned backstage praise from legends like Ricky Steamboat.

He also shares a defining “black belt” moment from a match in Vienna, where he was tasked with calling an entire bout solo. A quiet nod of approval from The Undertaker confirmed what MVP already knew: he had arrived as a true ring general.

The episode goes deeper into wrestling psychology—explaining how the greatest workers, from Dusty Rhodes to Dolph Ziggler, use facial expressions and emotional realism to draw sympathy and sell a match. MVP stresses that wrestling isn’t about memorized moves—it’s about making people believe.

All with raw, unfiltered insight from one of the most respected veterans in the business.

Get early access, exclusive behind-the-scenes, and bonus content you won’t find anywhere else. Unlock the real story behind the squared circle—join our Patreon now → https://www.patreon.com/TheMarkingOutShow 🔥

Enjoying the show? Houston rapper & songwriter Dwayne Swayze brings the same storytelling precision to his music. Experience his latest tracks on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3CFDVhx & Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/dwayne-swayze/1368365090. Follow for exclusive updates.

About Marking Out with MVP and Dwayne Swayze:

Marking Out is a weekly wrestling podcast hosted by longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP)—a professional wrestling veteran with over 20 years in the business—and Dwayne Swayze, a rapper with a deep love for the sport. Every Monday, MVP pulls back the curtain on pro wrestling, breaking down its history, behind-the-scenes moments, and the psychology that makes it all work. With firsthand experience in the ring, he shares unfiltered insight, legendary road stories, and deep dives into promos, match strategy, and the business behind the spectacle. No topic is off-limits. Subscribe for real talk, real stories, and a fresh perspective on the world of professional wrestling.

Hosted by longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP) and Houston-based rapper & songwriter Dwayne Swayze, Marking Out takes you inside the world of professional wrestling like never before. In this episode, MVP breaks down the politics, psychology, and professionalism behind losing a match in pro wrestling—and why it’s not always a bad thing. From taking losses to elevate the Hurt Business to being buried during a months-long doghouse stint in WWE, MVP shares raw insight on how ego, timing, and storyline shape outcomes behind the curtain.

He unpacks the misunderstood terms “jobber” and “burial,” reveals how being booked to lose can actually turn a heel into a babyface, and opens up about the infamous Undertaker–Brock Lesnar streak ending. With stories about working with MJF, Chris Jericho, and Cody Rhodes, MVP reveals how real pros navigate match changes, protect their credibility, and play the long game.

From chaotic last-minute finishes to the art of improvisation on live TV, this episode also explores how real-time changes—like Vince McMahon changing outcomes seconds before airtime—separate workers from stars. MVP shares behind-the-scenes gems from matches with Cody Rhodes, tag-team storytelling with Matt Hardy, and legendary road stories that never made it to TV.

All with raw, unfiltered insight from one of the most respected veterans in the business.

Get early access, exclusive behind-the-scenes, and bonus content you won’t find anywhere else. Unlock the real story behind the squared circle—join our Patreon now → https://www.patreon.com/TheMarkingOutShow 🔥

Enjoying the show? Houston rapper & songwriter Dwayne Swayze brings the same storytelling precision to his music. Experience his latest tracks on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3CFDVhx & Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/dwayne-swayze/1368365090. Follow for exclusive updates.

This episode is a must-listen for wrestling fans who want to go beyond WWE and AEW’s scripted world and hear firsthand from one of the industry’s most respected veterans.

Don’t just watch—subscribe and never miss an episode. New episodes drop every Monday on YouTube, Spotify & Apple Podcasts. Want more? Join us on Patreon → https://www.patreon.com/TheMarkingOutShow 🔥

About Marking Out with MVP and Dwayne Swayze:

Marking Out is a weekly wrestling podcast hosted by longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP)—a professional wrestling veteran with over 20 years in the business—and Dwayne Swayze, a rapper with a deep love for the sport. Every Monday, MVP pulls back the curtain on pro wrestling, breaking down its history, behind-the-scenes moments, and the psychology that makes it all work. With firsthand experience in the ring, he shares unfiltered insight, legendary road stories, and deep dives into promos, match strategy, and the business behind the spectacle. No topic is off-limits. Subscribe for real talk, real stories, and a fresh perspective on the world of professional wrestling.

Hosted by longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP) and Houston-based rapper & songwriter Dwayne Swayze, Marking Out takes you inside the world of professional wrestling like never before. In this episode, MVP reveals how he fought to create and protect the MVP character—from pitching it to WWE brass in a high-stakes 30-second meeting with John Laurinaitis, to delivering a full treatment of storylines that caught Vince McMahon’s attention. He explains how that bold move turned into a contract, and how rare it is for talent to maintain ownership of their name in an industry built on creative control.

MVP takes us behind the scenes of his WWE debut, where a last-minute gear switch left him wearing a “figure skater outfit” instead of his original Under Armour-inspired vision. With help from Batista, Vince’s unexpected reaction, and a little ego, he turned that moment into a signature style—but not without a personal vendetta against the seamstress who derailed his debut look.

The episode digs deep into what happens when wrestlers are hurt but still expected to perform. MVP shares how he worked through a double meniscus tear for nine months before getting surgery—relying on sheer willpower, cortisone, and a cane that became part of his iconic look. He opens up about WWE’s wellness program, cannabis fines, and how his private training routines in Houston kept him match-ready for tours in Japan.

From wild workouts with Dwayne Swayze to cultural differences between WWE, AEW, and New Japan, this episode covers what it really takes to survive the grind—and still look sharp doing it.

All with raw, unfiltered insight from one of the most respected veterans in the business.

Get early access, exclusive behind-the-scenes, and bonus content you won’t find anywhere else. Unlock the real story behind the squared circle—join our Patreon now → https://www.patreon.com/TheMarkingOutShow 🔥

Enjoying the show? Houston rapper & songwriter Dwayne Swayze brings the same storytelling precision to his music. Experience his latest tracks on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3CFDVhx & Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/dwayne-swayze/1368365090. Follow for exclusive updates.

This episode is a must-listen for wrestling fans who want to go beyond WWE and AEW’s scripted world and hear firsthand from one of the industry’s most respected veterans.

Don’t just watch—subscribe and never miss an episode. New episodes drop every Monday on YouTube, Spotify & Apple Podcasts. Want more? Join us on Patreon → https://www.patreon.com/TheMarkingOutShow 🔥

About Marking Out with MVP and Dwayne Swayze:

Marking Out is a weekly wrestling podcast hosted by longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP)—a professional wrestling veteran with over 20 years in the business—and Dwayne Swayze, a rapper with a deep love for the sport. Every Monday, MVP pulls back the curtain on pro wrestling, breaking down its history, behind-the-scenes moments, and the psychology that makes it all work. With firsthand experience in the ring, he shares unfiltered insight, legendary road stories, and deep dives into promos, match strategy, and the business behind the spectacle. No topic is off-limits. Subscribe for real talk, real stories, and a fresh perspective on the world of professional wrestling.

Hosted by longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP) and Houston-based rapper & songwriter Dwayne Swayze, Marking Out takes you inside the world of professional wrestling like never before. In this premiere episode, MVP pulls back the curtain on life as a full-time wrestler, revealing the brutal reality of spending over 270 days a year on the road. From catching red-eyes after live events to missing family milestones, he explains how the grind shaped his personal and professional life.

MVP breaks down how the business has changed, including WWE’s pivot from live events to streaming, and how that shift impacts younger talent trying to sharpen their skills. He shares how working match after match on the road used to be critical for building chemistry, learning improvisation, and perfecting in-ring timing.

The episode dives deep into the art of calling matches, building trust with your opponent, and knowing when to adjust based on crowd energy. MVP explains why younger wrestlers struggle without real-world reps and why listening to the crowd can be more powerful than any planned sequence.

When it comes to promos, MVP discusses how passion and presence trump memorized lines. He explains how WWE’s word-for-word scripts kill authenticity and how AEW’s creative freedom allows talent to shine. He tells the story of receiving a three-page promo rewrite just ten minutes before a live RAW, and how quick thinking kept the segment from falling apart.

From his early days as Antonio Banks to becoming the inaugural IWGP Intercontinental Champion, MVP shares personal stories, road wisdom, and how one self-produced promo landed him a WWE contract—all with raw, unfiltered insight from one of wrestling’s most respected veterans.

Get early access, exclusive behind-the-scenes, and bonus content you won’t find anywhere else. Unlock the real story behind the squared circle—join our Patreon now → https://www.patreon.com/TheMarkingOutShow 🔥

Enjoying the show? Houston rapper & songwriter Dwayne Swayze brings the same storytelling precision to his music. Experience his latest tracks on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3CFDVhx & Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/dwayne-swayze/1368365090. Follow for exclusive updates.

This episode is a must-listen for wrestling fans who want to go beyond WWE and AEW’s scripted world and hear firsthand from one of the industry’s most respected veterans.

Don’t just watch—subscribe and never miss an episode. New episodes drop every Monday on YouTube, Spotify & Apple Podcasts. Want more? Join us on Patreon → https://www.patreon.com/TheMarkingOutShow

About Marking Out with MVP and Dwayne Swayze:

Marking Out is a weekly wrestling podcast hosted by longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP)—a professional wrestling veteran with over 20 years in the business—and Dwayne Swayze, a rapper with a deep love for the sport. Every Monday, MVP pulls back the curtain on pro wrestling, breaking down its history, behind-the-scenes moments, and the psychology that makes it all work. With firsthand experience in the ring, he shares unfiltered insight, legendary road stories, and deep dives into promos, match strategy, and the business behind the spectacle. No topic is off-limits. Subscribe for real talk, real stories, and a fresh perspective on the world of professional wrestling.