Get ready for a powerhouse edition of the 3-time award-winning podcast, Devon & The Duke! This week, WWE Hall of Famer Devon Dudley and Duke Loves Rasslin are firing on all cylinders to celebrate a very special occasion: the birthday of "The Animal" himself, Dave Batista (1/18/26).

From the grind of the gym to the gritty backstage stories of 2002, this episode is a deep dive into what it takes to survive the business and build a legend. Despite technical hurdles and health bugs, the Reverend and the Duke are here to deliver the truth.

Inside Episode 56:

• The Forever Grind: Devon opens up about his grueling schedule and the unique challenges veterans face when trying to stay in peak physical condition as they get older.

• Duke’s Toughest Opponent: Duke is currently fighting through a heavy cold, but like a true pro, he isn't letting it stop the show.

• Power Move: Devon catches us up on his latest binge-watch, the hit series POWER, and breaks down why Ghost has quickly become his favorite character.

• The Birth of a Deacon: The definitive origin story of how Deacon Batista was created and Devon's honest first impressions when he met the man who would become a Hollywood megastar.

• Behind the Suit: Why Batista famously hated the Deacon gimmick but loved every second of being paired with Devon.

• Backstage Heat: Devon pulls no punches while discussing the friction between Batista and Bubba Ray Dudley during those early days.

• Brotherhood & Success: Hear Devon express his immense pride in Batista's journey and his heartfelt words of encouragement for "The Animal."

• The Ultimate Respect: Reflecting on Batista’s career-long habit of shouting out Devon in interviews as a pivotal part of his success.

Whether you're a fan of the "Ruthless Aggression" era or you just love a great success story, this episode is a masterclass in wrestling history and personal growth.

#DevonAndTheDuke #WWE #DaveBatista #TheAnimal #DeaconBatista #ProWrestling #Podcast #DevonDudley #BatistaBirthday #PowerStarz #WrestlingHistory #HallOfFame #Testify

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Get ready for another explosive episode of the 3-time award-winning podcast, Devon & The Duke! This week, the show that keeps going viral is overcoming technical hurdles and setting the wrestling world on fire with never-before-heard backstage stories and some serious "real talk" regarding industry legends. Despite a massive Verizon outage trying to silence the Reverend, the message is getting out—and it is loud and clear.

In this episode, Devon and Duke pull back the curtain on one of the most iconic transformations in WWE history and address the modern-day drama that has the internet talking.

What’s Inside Episode 55:

• The Verizon Silence: How a nationwide mobile outage nearly took down the episode and what it took to get Devon back on the air.

• The Stephanie McMahon Subject: Duke teases a potential appearance for Devon on Stephanie’s podcast. Is Devon ready to be put in the hot seat?

• The Secret History of Reverend Devon: Devon reveals the true origin of the character, including the shocking reveal that Stephanie McMahon was originally slated to be part of the on-screen gimmick before Vince McMahon pivoted.

• Vindication from the Greats: Hear what Vince McMahon, Stephanie McMahon, and The Undertaker really thought about the Reverend Devon character.

• The Faarooq Partnership: Devon reflects on his short but deeply appreciated time teaming with the legendary Ron Simmons.

• Is John Cena the GOAT?: Duke gives his high-level perspective on why Cena is officially billed as the Greatest of All Time.

• Setting the Record Straight: Devon clears the air on the Maven/Conrad Thompson situation, revealing he had no idea Maven was attempting to "middleman" the tension between Devon and Jim Ross.

• Duke Lays Down the Law: A stern warning to those trying to use Devon for "self-dealing." Duke issues a final call to Jim Ross: be a man, bury the hatchet, or move on.

• The Final Word: Devon closes the show with a powerful reminder for everyone to live by the Golden Rule.

Don't miss the podcast that continues to define the conversation in professional wrestling. Whether you're here for the backstage heat or the spiritual inspiration, this is one "sermon" you can't afford to miss!

#DevonAndTheDuke #WWE #ReverendDevon #StephanieMcMahon #VinceMcMahon #JohnCena #ProWrestling #Podcast #JimRoss #TheUndertaker #Testify #GoldenRule #ViralPodcast

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In this explosive and deeply personal episode of the 3-time award-winning Devon & The Duke podcast, WWE Hall of Famer Devon Dudley and Duke Loves Rasslin pull back the curtain on the reality of life in the wrestling business. From heartwarming family bonds to firing back at internet rumors, this is Devon like you’ve never heard him before.What’s Inside This Episode:

• The Bliss-Cabrera Connection: Devon opens up about his genuine, close-knit friendship with Alexa Bliss and her husband, musician Ryan Cabrera. Hear the stories of their bond outside the ring and why they are considered family.

• Calling Out the Dirtsheets: Devon doesn't hold back as he addresses the "keyboard warriors" and gossip sites. He sets the record straight regarding disrespectful accusations about his relationships with female peers, emphasizing the importance of family values and professional respect.

• A Blast from the Past with Big Vito: Laughter ensues as Devon recounts a surprise visit from Big Vito to his wrestling school. The duo reminisces about their "rookie" days in the early 90s, training under the legendary WWE Hall of Famer Johnny Rodz.

• Respecting the Craft: A look at what it takes to transition from the "Gleason’s Gym" era to running a modern-day wrestling academy.

• And Much More: Insights into the current state of the industry, locker room etiquette, and the usual unfiltered banter you can only get from Devon and Duke!

Why You Can’t Miss This:

Whether you’re a die-hard ECW original fan or a follower of the modern WWE landscape, this episode bridges the gap between eras. Devon Dudley proves that while he may be "testifying," his priority has always been his family, his integrity, and the brothers and sisters he’s made along the way.

Stop listening to the rumors and hear the truth from the man who lived it.

#WWE #DevonDudley #AlexaBliss #RyanCabrera #ProWrestling #DukeLovesRasslin #TheDudleyBoyz #WrestlingPodcast #JohnnyRodz #BigVito #WrestlingNews #HallOfFame

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Ring in the New Year with the most explosive, highly-anticipated, and potentially viral episode of the year! The 3-time award-winning podcast, ranked in the top 5% of all podcasts globally, is closing out the year by pulling back the curtain on one of the most controversial chapters in wrestling history.

This week, WWE Hall of Famer Devon Dudley and Duke Loves Rasslin don’t hold back. After legendary announcer Jim Ross (JR) publicly denied making racially insensitive remarks, Devon sets the record straight with specific receipts, eyewitness accounts, and a deep dive into the incidents that changed his perspective on the "Voice of Wrestling" forever.What’s Inside This Episode:

• The Denial & The Truth: Devon responds directly to Jim Ross’ recent claims that he never said anything racially insensitive. Devon reveals why Bubba Ray Dudley has already gone on the record to back Devon’s account.

• The Times Square Incident: Devon details the first encounter at the grand opening of the WWE Restaurant in New York City, where a heavily intoxicated JR first made his feelings about Devon known.

• The Indiana Confrontation: A chilling account of an incident in Indiana where JR acknowledged Paul Heyman, Bubba, Spike, and Dreamer—but ignored Devon. Hear the shocking retort JR gave when Paul Heyman asked, "Is it because he's Black?"

• The Johnny Ace Contrast: In a surprising turn, Devon discusses his relationship with John Laurinaitis (Johnny Ace), detailing how Ace was consistently respectful and why Devon eventually apologized to him regarding past contract frustrations.

• The Ron Killings Connection: Duke revisits 2005 comments from Ron Killings (R-Truth) regarding his own experiences with JR and the "R-word."

• Seeking Grace & Relevancy: Duke analyzes JR’s "burying" of Johnny Ace and utilizes Ric Flair’s scathing quotes about JR’s hunt for relevancy.

• A Call for Reflection: The duo explores the spiritual side of the conflict, speculating on JR’s internal struggles and why he may find it difficult to offer the same grace to others that he expects for himself.

Why You Can’t Miss This:

Whether you are a die-hard fan of the Dudley Boyz or a follower of pro wrestling history, this episode is a masterclass in accountability and forgiveness. Devon reiterates that while he has forgiven JR, he will not allow the truth to be distorted.

This is the conversation the entire wrestling world will be talking about on New Year’s Day.Connect with the Show:

• Listen: Available on all major platforms (Top 5% Worldwide)

• Awards: 3-Time Spotify Podcast Award Winner

• Follow: Get the latest updates by following Devon Dudley and Duke Loves Rasslin on social media.

#WWE #DevonDudley #JimRoss #ProWrestling #DudleyBoyz #WrestlingNews #JohnnyAce #RicFlair #Podcast #NewYear2025 #WrestlingTruth

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Get ready to ring in the season with the 3-time award-winning podcast duo, WWE Hall of Famer Devon Dudley and Duke Loves Rasslin! Whether you are wrapping gifts, finishing up your holiday cooking, or hitting the road for a long drive, this episode is the perfect companion.

In this special "Happy Holidays" edition, the guys balance heartfelt reflections with hard-hitting wrestling analysis. From emotional tributes to Devon’s late grandmother—the woman who kept him on the straight and narrow—to a deep dive into the fallout of Saturday Night’s Main Event, this episode has it all.

Inside This Episode:

• A Grandson’s Gratitude: Devon shares a touching tribute to his late grandmother and explains how her guidance shaped the man he is today.

• The Power of Influence: Duke gives a massive shoutout to the mentors and loved ones, past and present, who have molded the hosts and the listeners into the people they are today.

• Oba Femi is the Real Deal: Full analysis of Oba Femi’s incredible performance against Cody Rhodes. Is he the next "megastar" in the making?

• The End of an Era: The duo breaks down John Cena’s final match against Gunther.

• "Calm Down, Fans!": Devon has a message for the critics complaining about Cena tapping out to the Ring General.

• The Case for a Gunther Dynasty: Duke explains why Gunther needs to remain undefeated for years to come—and what it will take for a babyface to finally be ready to dethrone him.

• Duke’s Holiday "Gift" to Devon: Duke jokes about Devon coming out of retirement for one more match… against Oba Femi.

• The "Oba" Threat: Devon explains why Duke must not like him very much if he's trying to get a powerhouse like Oba to "lay hands" on him!

• Lighthearted Banter: Plenty of laughs, holiday spirit, and the signature chemistry you can only get from Devon and the Duke.

  #DevonAndTheDuke #WWE #ProWrestling #JohnCena #Gunther #ObaFemi #WWEHallOfFame #WrestlingPodcast #HolidaySpecial #SaturdayNightsMain Event #DevonDudley #DukeLovesRasslin

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Join WWE Hall of Famer Devon Dudley and Duke Loves Rasslin for a monumental episode celebrating the incredible success of the Devon & The Duke podcast! This week, the hosts dive deep into the media world's biggest storyline with a special guest, and celebrate their historic achievement.

• Triple Threat Win: Devon & The Duke celebrates earning 3 prestigious 2025 Spotify Podcast Awards for being a:

  • 2025 Marathon Show

  • 2025 Most Talked About Show

  • 2025 Most Shared Show

• Top 25% Globally On Spotify: This independently Black-owned podcast outperformed over 75% of all podcasts worldwide in listening, sharing, and conversation—cementing its place as a podcast phenomenon.

• Top 5% Worldwide: The show is also celebrated for being in the top 5% of all listened to audio podcasts worldwide across all major podcast applications.

• International Duke Day: A brief mention of The Duke's Birthday on 12/12, setting the stage for next week's annual International Duke Day episode on Duke Loves Rasslin.

• Exclusive Conversation: Tony Maglio, TV Editor of TheHollywoodReporter.Com and Duke's longtime collaborator, joins the show for a compelling, multi-layered discussion.

• WBD Sale Breakdown: Tony provides the latest, most detailed insight into the intense negotiation and bidding war for Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) between media giants Netflix and Paramount.

• Political & Corporate Influence: Get Tony's take on the potential implications of the winning bid, including the possible influence of the Trump Administration and Trump Family.

• WWE & McMahon Strategy: The panel discusses how the McMahon family and WWE are strategically positioned to end up on top regardless of which media conglomerate wins the WBD bid.

• AEW/ECW Parallels: Devon offers a powerful, first-hand account of the ECW-TNN/Spike TV-WWE takeover, drawing sharp parallels to how the WBD situation could impact AEW today.

• Beyond the Ring: Devon expresses deep gratitude for being respected and celebrated for his brain and communication skills, proving he is a winner both inside and outside the ring.

• Flowers to The Duke: Devon highlights Duke's vision in building a successful platform that led to three shows (Devon & The Duke, Duke Loves Rasslin, and The Friend Of Ours Podcast with Big Vito LoGrasso) sharing in the Spotify Awards.

• Inspiration for Creators: An insightful, hilarious, and educational conclusion detailing the significance of an independent Black-owned brand making podcast history and showing the power of collaboration over corporate competition.

  #DevonAndTheDuke #SpotifyAwards #PodcastAwards #WBD #WarnerBrosDiscovery #Netflix #Paramount #TonyMaglio #TheHollywoodReporter #WWE #AEW #ProWrestling #MediaSale #CorporateTakeover #DevonDudley #DukeLovesRasslin #PodcastHistory #BlackOwnedPodcast #InternationalDukeDay

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**All views expressed are that of those expressing them. Pull Up Your Skinny Jeans if you don't like it! **

Welcome to the historic 50th episode of the Devon & the Duke podcast! Hosted by WWE Hall of Famer Devon Dudley and Duke Loves Rasslin, this milestone edition celebrates the incredible continued success and viral reach of one of the top wrestling shows on the planet. We absolutely could not have reached this golden anniversary without the unwavering support of our wonderful listeners supporting Devon, Duke, and the brand—THANK YOU! Strap in for a stacked anniversary show featuring exclusive reveals, deep dives, and unfiltered hot takes.

On this milestone 50th episode, Devon & Duke cover:

• John Cena’s Salute Revealed: In a massive exclusive, Devon reveals that John Cena personally confirmed to him that his iconic three-finger salute is a direct homage to the Dudley Boyz.

• The Disco Inferno Situation: The guys provide an update on Disco Inferno continuing to embarrass himself on the Keepin' It 100 podcast regarding Jim Ross’s past racist comments toward Devon.

• NXT Power Couple Engaged: Devon and Duke send a huge congratulations to NXT stars Trick Williams and Lash Legend on their recent engagement.

• Lash Legend’s NCAA Glory: Before she dominated the ring, she dominated the paint. Duke details Lash Legend's LEGENDARY NCAA Women's Basketball career and explains why he has been a massive fan of hers dating back to her college days.

• The Diddy Documentary: Duke provides a spoiler-free analysis of the explosive new Netflix documentary on Diddy produced by 50 Cent.

• Defending Russell Wilson: Devon & Duke weigh in on the former Seattle Seahawks backup QB trash-talking the time Russell Wilson hosted them for Thanksgiving. The hosts argue why Wilson is completely justified in keeping his distance from certain teammates who talk bad about you for no reason.

Thank you again to everyone supporting the show. Please keep sharing and talking about Devon & The Duke as we kick off the next 50 episodes!

#DevonAndTheDuke #DevonDudley #DukeLovesRasslin #WWEHOF #WrestlingPodcast #JohnCena #DudleyBoyz #LashLegend #TrickWilliams #WWENXT #RussellWilson #NFL #Diddy #50Cent #Netflix

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**All views expressed are that of those expressing them. Pull Up Your Skinny Jeans if you don't like it! **

What happens when you cross a die-hard pro wrestling fan with a Gothic Romance novelist? You get one of the most unique and fascinating conversations in the history of Duke Loves Rasslin!

In this episode, the Duke sits down with creative maven and author QC Benedict for a genre-bending interview that bridges the gap between the squared circle and the supernatural. While QC is a lifelong student of the wrestling game, he’s stepping into the podcast ring to celebrate the release of his haunting new novel, Immortal in the Attic.

It is rare to find a romance author who can break down creative booking decisions as fluently as they write slow-burn tension, but QC delivers on both fronts. Whether you are looking for your next great read or want a fresh perspective on the current state of AEW and WWE, this episode has something for everyone.

Tune in as we discuss:

• Wrestling Creative Analysis: QC pontificates on AEW's current creative hurdles and explains why he believes WWE is "playing it safe" with their storylines right now.

• Book Announcement: The official unveiling of QC’s debut Gothic Romance novel, Immortal in the Attic.

• The Premise: A deep dive into the summer of 1970, introducing us to Kate, a young plumber, and Jackson, a wounded artist, whose love story awakens forces older than time itself.

• Holiday Shopping Guide: Details on exactly where you can purchase the book (perfect for the reader in your life!) just in time for the holidays.

Don't miss this fun, eclectic interview that proves creative storytelling transcends genres. Listen now, then head over to qcbenedict.com or Amazon to grab your copy of Immortal in the Attic!

#DukeLovesRasslin #QCBenedict #ImmortalInTheAttic #ProWrestling #AEW #WWE #WrestlingPodcast #GothicRomance #Bookstagram #NewBookAlert #WrestlingCommunity #AuthorInterview #RomanceNovels

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**All views expressed are that of those expressing them. Pull Up Your Skinny Jeans if you don't like it! **