Best Josh Bentley Podcasts (2025)

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#206 PRCA World Champion Saddle Bronc Riders Ryder Wright & Brad Gjermundson 32:17

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1M ago32:17

32:17

In this episode, 1985 Saddle Bronc World Champion Brad Gjermundson and 2024 Champion Ryder Wright sit down for a fascinating cross-generation conversation. Brad kicks things off by reflecting on the very first NFR in Las Vegas in 1985 and comparing it to its earlier days in Oklahoma City. From there, the two dive into how the NFR has evolved over t…

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#205 Roundtable with Josh Frost, J.D. Struxness, and Dean Thompson 33:57

1M ago33:57

33:57

In this roundtable episode, we bring together three of rodeo’s newest World Champions — Josh Frost, J.D. Struxness, and Dean Thompson. All first-time gold buckle winners in 2024, they sit down to share what it feels like to finally reach the top. From years of hard work and close calls to the moment it all came together, the champs open up about th…

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Wrestlemaniwa w/ Jeremy aka Prophet of Ash Video

1M ago

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On this “lost” episode of Wrestlemaniwa from December of 2024, I talk to my long time close personal friend Jeremy aka Prophet of Ash Video. We talk the first time Jeremy saw independent wrestling, who his day 1 in the wrestling business is, talk about deathmatch wrestling weapon engineering, becoming the editor for IWAMS, helping book in Terre Hau…

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#204 1985 & 2024 PRCA Team Roping Champions 50:18

2M ago50:18

50:18

In this special episode, the 2024 PRCA Team Roping World Champions turn the tables and step into the host’s chair as they interview the 1985 PRCA Team Roping Champions. What unfolds is a fun, story-driven conversation filled with great questions, behind-the-scenes memories, and championship perspectives across generations. From swapping rodeo stori…

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#203 2025 Miss Rodeo America Callie Mueller 25:39

2M ago25:39

25:39

In this inspiring episode, 2025 Miss Rodeo America Callie Mueller shares her journey from her first pageant in South Dakota in 2019 to capturing rodeo’s most prestigious crown. She takes listeners behind the scenes of competing for nine intense days during the NFR, the dedication and daily discipline it takes to be a rodeo queen, and the joy of wea…

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#202 Roundtable Shad Mayfield, Riley Webb, and Ryder Wright 31:02

2M ago31:02

31:02

In this driven roundtable episode, three multi-time world champions—2x Tie-Down Roping Champ Shad Mayfield, 2x Tie-Down Roping Champ Riley Webb, and 3x Saddle Bronc Riding Champ Ryder Wright—sit down for an unfiltered conversation about what it really takes to reach the top. They share the feeling of winning their first gold buckle, the pressure an…

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#201 PRCA World Champion Bull Rider Josh Frost and Ted Nuce 30:06

2M ago30:06

30:06

In this episode, 2024 Bull Riding World Champion Josh Frost sits down with 1985 World Champion Ted Nuce for a powerful and entertaining conversation about what it takes to be the best in the world. They dive deep into the mindset behind championship success—breaking down the role of positive self-talk, visualization, and having a clear game plan. T…

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#200 PRCA World Champion Steer Wrestlers J.D. Struxness and Ote Berry 32:11

2M ago32:11

32:11

2024 Steer Wrestling World Champion J.D. Struxness and 1985 World Champion Ote Berry team up for a powerhouse episode that dives deep into the world of bulldogging. They share what it takes to survive—and thrive—through 10 intense days at the NFR in Las Vegas, and how crucial horsemanship, hazing, and horsepower are to success in the arena. The con…

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#199 11X World Champion Barrel Racer Charmayne James 32:53

3M ago32:53

32:53

In this episode, 11x World Champion Barrel Racer Charmayne James takes us back to where it all began—arriving at the very first NFR in Las Vegas as a wide-eyed 15-year-old. She shares what it was like to experience the energy of Vegas and how the city’s fascination with rodeo helped elevate the sport. Charmayne opens up about the moment that lit a …

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#198 2025 PRCA Bareback Riding Champion Dean Thompson 33:16

3M ago33:16

33:16

2025 PRCA Bareback Riding World Champion Dean Thompson joins the show for a fun and inspiring conversation filled with grit, laughs, and hometown pride. Dean dives into how his wrestling background shaped his mental toughness in rodeo and even shares his pick for the best wrestler in the rodeo world. He talks about the unmatched support from Utah f…

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#197 2025 WPRA World Champion Barrel Racer Kassie Mowry 33:41

3M ago33:41

33:41

2025 WPRA Barrel Racing World Champion Kassie Mowry joins the show to reflect on her championship season and the incredible horses that helped her get there. She shares how she develops strong connections with each horse, including her standout partner Jarvis—who she started in futurity competitions before transitioning him to rodeo. Kassie dives i…

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#196 2X PRCA World Champion Shad Mayfield 30:02

3M ago30:02

30:02

2x World Champion Shad Mayfield joins the show to break down what it means to earn both the Tie-Down and All-Around world titles—and the difference between the two. He shares his drive to be the greatest and the mindset it takes to stay at the top. Shad dives into the importance of the horses he rides, especially his standout partner Lolipop, and h…

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#195 Singer/Songwriter Josh Ward 30:14

5M ago30:14

30:14

Country artist Josh Ward joins the show to share his incredible journey from rodeo arenas to concert stages. Before becoming a successful singer/songwriter, Josh worked in the oil fields and competed in all three rough stock events as a young cowboy. In this episode, he reflects on the striking similarities between chasing dreams in rodeo and break…

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#194 2024 NFR Qualifier Bradlee Miller 26:39

5M ago26:39

26:39

Bradlee Miller joins the show to share his journey from the rodeo season to his first Wrangler NFR as a bareback rider in 2024. He opens up about the nerves, excitement, and lessons learned as a rookie on the sport’s biggest stage. Bradlee also talks about the unforgettable moment of winning the second round—a goal he set before ever stepping into …

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#193 Singer/Songwriter Presley Barker 24:20

5M ago24:20

24:20

Presley Barker joins the show to talk about his rising journey as a singer and songwriter in the country music world. A true student of traditional country, Presley shares how classic sounds shaped his style—and how he’s become a bit of a "human jukebox," able to play up to 150 classic country songs on guitar. He also reflects on the honor of singi…

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#192 2024 NFR Qualifier Statler Wright 32:12

6M ago32:12

32:12

Statler Wright joins the show to share how his journey into rodeo didn’t follow the expected path—even for someone with the last name Wright. Focused on football and wrestling growing up, Statler didn’t shift his sights to rodeo until 2020. Now, he’s proudly carrying on his legendary family’s legacy alongside his father Cody and brothers Rusty, Ryd…

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#191 South Point Hotel & Casino Owner Michael Gaughan 26:33

6M ago26:33

26:33

Legendary Las Vegas icon Michael Gaughan joins the show to share his remarkable journey in shaping the city’s entertainment landscape. From opening iconic properties like the Barbary Coast and South Point to playing a pivotal role in growing the NFR in Las Vegas, Gaughan’s impact is undeniable. He reflects on decades in gaming, his passion for raci…

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#190 President of Las Vegas Events Tim Keener 34:40

6M ago34:40

34:40

Tim Keener, President of Las Vegas Events, shares his journey from sports management to leading some of the city’s biggest events. With more than 25 years at LVE, he has played a key role in the Wrangler NFR, Junior NFR and Cowboy Christmas. Tim dives into his background, his experience working with ESPN and Raycom Sports, and the evolution of how …

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2.001 Greg Kwedar + Clint Bentley 2:30:03

7M ago2:30:03

2:30:03

Greg Kwedar and Clint Bentley are the filmmaking duo behind Sing Sing, the critically acclaimed drama that earned them an Academy Award nomination for Best Adapted Screenplay. Known for their deeply humanistic approach to storytelling, Kwedar and Bentley craft films that center on overlooked communities and the resilience of the human spirit. Their…

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Wrestlemaniwa w/ Aaron Rose – GNPW’s TGI Preview~!

8M ago

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On this special episode of Wrestlemaniwa, Pro Wrestling’s BFF” Nick Maniwa & Aaron Rose preview the upcoming (like this Friday upcoming) Generation Next Pro Wrestling’s The Generational Invitational tournament. We run down the card, give our thoughts on the brackets & have a blast while doing it. Look for another Wrestlemaniwa episode coming in the…

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Midsouth Memories : Spotlight – Breaking Balls 11/21/03

9M ago

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“Pro Wrestling’s BFF” Nick Maniwa & Mike Ruff (of RuffFigures.com) are dropping balls. Well not us personally but the team of Danny Daniels, Ryan Boz & Brad Bradley led to the ring by Carmine DeSpirito & Jim Fannin on this Midsouth Memories Spotlight episode : Breaking Balls. We literally only did this to release it on New Year’s Eve before the bal…

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Midsouth Memories – Wrestlemaniwa

10M ago

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“Pro Wrestling’s BFF” Nick Maniwa & Mike Ruff (of RuffFigures.com) had some family obligations this month, so we bring you an episode we recorded earlier this year – Wrestlemaniwa. A no rope barbed wire deathmatch as the main event of a benefit show. Absurd. If you have old IWAMS photos (96-05ish), please send them to me using the email listed belo…

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#189 NFR General Manager Allen Rheinheimer 29:02

10M ago29:02

29:02

NFR General Manager Allen Rheinheimer brings a lifetime of experience in the equine world. From growing up on the road with his father, to building a remarkable career, his knowledge runs deep. As December approaches, Allen shares exciting plans for the 2024 Wrangler NFR, including the Review System which will shape the future of the sport.…

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#188 2024 NFR Qualifier Cash Robb 26:37

10M ago26:37

26:37

This rising star in the rodeo world is no stranger to Las Vegas, but 2024 marks his highly anticipated debut at the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo. Cash shares his inspiring journey into Steer Wrestling, from his early beginnings to dominating the YETI Junior World Finals in Las Vegas. As he gears up for his first NFR appearance, Cash opens up abou…

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#187 Senior VP of Entertainment of Fountainebleau Las Vegas Fedor Banuchi 34:28

10M ago34:28

34:28

The Fontainebleau Las Vegas is rolling out the blue carpet for rodeo fans! Fedor takes us inside the newest luxury destination on the Strip, showcasing its stunning casino, world-class dining, vibrant nightlife, and more. With exciting events like viewing parties and concerts, he shares all the details on what guests can look forward to this Decemb…

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Midsouth Memories – Bloodfeast 2014 : Born to be Wired

10M ago

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“Pro Wrestling’s BFF” Nick Maniwa & Mike Ruff (of RuffFigures.com) are helping you celebrate Thanksgiving by presenting Bloodfeast 2014: Born to be Wired on this month’s episode of Midsouth Memories. We talk opening segments, SHOOT~! comments in promos, pain pills being in the wrong bottle, long battle royals, hidden gem deathmatches & so much more…

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Wrestlemaniwa w/ Chad French of MidwestTerritory.com

11M ago

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On the return episode of Wrestlemaniwa, I talk to the ruggedly handsome Chad French as we talk his history in his wrestling fandom, discovering IWA Midsouth at the old K-Mart building, coming to various venues in the 2000s, starting out as a “journalist” during the Memphis Flea Market days which led to Chad performing in ring, becoming a commentato…

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#186 President and CEO of Rio Las Vegas Patrick Miller 26:51

11M ago26:51

26:51

With over 28 years of experience, Patrick Miller brings unparalleled insight into the ever-evolving heartbeat of Las Vegas. He dives into the transformative project of revitalizing the iconic Rio Las Vegas, sharing the vision behind its exciting rebirth. Patrick highlights the thrilling events lined up for December while also showcasing the propert…

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#185 American Outlaw Country Singer/Songwriter Cody Jinks 45:26

11M ago45:26

45:26

Cody Jinks is a trailblazing independent artist, celebrated for his raw outlaw country sound and powerful, soul-stirring songwriting. Once a metal musician, Jinks defied the odds to become a country icon, carving his own path and thriving on his terms. He opens up about the bold decision to launch his label, Late August Records, and the challenges …

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Midsouth Memories: Spotlight – Tracy Smothers riot 6/15/02

11M ago

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“Pro Wrestling’s BFF” Nick Maniwa & Mike Ruff (of RuffFigures.com) bring the next installment of the Midsouth Memories: Spotlight to talk the infamous Tracy Smothers riot which took place at No Blood No Guts No Glory 2002 in Clarksville, IN. To set up a match later in the month, Tracy attacks “Beautiful” Bobby Eaton & all hell breaks loose. 22 year…

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#184 Entrepreneur and PRCA World Champion Stran Smith 48:07

11M ago48:07

48:07

Stran Smith is an accomplished author-in-the-making, a powerhouse entrepreneur, a proud 4th-generation rancher, a PRCA World Champion, and a man of unwavering faith. With resilience forged through trials both in and out of the arena, Stran shares his journey as a passionate cowboy who overcame every obstacle. His story is one of grit, determination…

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#183 Vegas NFR Icon Joe Beaver 38:08

12M ago38:08

38:08

Joe Beaver’s dream of becoming a cowboy began early, roping from the age of five. At just 20, he made his NFR debut as the youngest tie-down roper, claiming his first world title and turning the Thomas & Mack Center into “the house that Joe built.” He recounts his relentless journey to Las Vegas, where he went on to capture four additional world ti…

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#182 Vegas NFR Icons Speed Williams & Rich Skelton 44:44

12M ago44:44

44:44

Williams and Skelton put on a team roping performance as partners from 1997 until 2004 that may never be matched again in Las Vegas. During that time, the duo racked up eight straight World Championships and also won the average in 2001. Their extraordinary journey to the top is filled with unforgettable moments and hard-earned victories, and now, …

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Midsouth Memories – The 2004 Ted Petty Invitational

1y ago

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“Pro Wrestling’s BFF” Nick Maniwa & Mike Ruff (of RuffFigures.com) celebrate the 20th anniversary of what people call, “the greatest independent wrestling tournament in history”, the 2004 Ted Petty Invitational. We give our thoughts, stories & love on the shows. If you have old IWAMS photos (96-05ish), please send them to me using the email listed …

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#181 4X PRCA World Champion Zeke Thurston 31:44

1y ago31:44

31:44

Zeke Thurston's goal goes beyond being recognized as a decorated cowboy—he wants to be known as a genuinely good guy. He reflects on the unique meaning behind each gold buckle and shares his thoughts on what his future holds in the sport of rodeo. Zeke also talks about his partnership with MeatEater, recounting some of the memorable but comical hun…

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#180 Rodeo Roundtable 36:14

1y ago36:14

36:14

The Rodeo Roundtable is a high-energy conversation featuring Tyler Waguespack, Zeke Thurston, Wesley Thorp and Tyler Wade. These four rodeo stars dive into everything rodeo, sharing their greatest triumphs and most hilarious mishaps. They break down each event, discuss the camaraderie amongst athletes, compare their favorite rodeos, and share their…

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#179 2X WPRA World Champion Barrel Racer Brittany Pozzi Tonozzi 34:17

1y ago34:17

34:17

Brittany Pozzi Tonozzi's passion for horses shines through when she speaks. She shares her extensive knowledge of breeding, training, hauling, rodeos, futurity and everything horse-related. Brittany also discusses the growth and changes in the industry over the years. She offers insights into how she and her husband, Garret, manage their many horse…

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#178 5X PRCA World Champion Steer Wrestler Tyler Waguespack 33:39

1y ago33:39

33:39

Tyler Waguespack is undoubtedly a professional. He shares what it was like coming down to the final round to win his 5th gold buckle. He talks about his horse power, what it is like being on the road and how connected the steer wrestling community is. Tyler shares about his connection with rookie Cash Robb similar to his time as a rookie with Ote B…

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#177 2023 PRCA World Champion Tie-Down Roper Riley Webb 38:14

1y ago38:14

38:14

Riley Webb has been hungry since the start. He shares his story about growing up with parents who produced roping and how he was attending rodeos from the time he was born. He talks a lot about his experience in youth rodeo and how much it has changed just in the last few years. Webb also shared about the significance of this gold buckle and how he…

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#176 2023 PRCA World Champion Team Ropers 41:18

1y ago41:18

41:18

Tyler Wade and Wesley Thorp make a great team! They sit down and share what makes their pairing work and how having like-minded goals got them to win this world title. They talk about the business of rodeo and that it is important to see it all the way through rather than just living month to month.

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#175 2023 PRCA Word Champion Bareback Rider Keenan Hayes 27:42

1y ago27:42

27:42

Keenan Hayes became the first PRCA Bareback Rider Rookie of the Year to win a world title and the average in his first NFR appearance. Keenan tells us all about his first time in Vegas for the NFR. He shares his story about how he began his rodeo career, what his regimen looks like, or doesn't, and what keeps him busy outside rodeo.…

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#174 Miss Rodeo America 2024 Emma Cameron 23:16

1y ago23:16

23:16

Miss Rodeo America Emma Cameron is just a down-to-earth gal! She shares her story about how she was once a shy girl who didn't like talking to people and has become a humble gal who wants to be herself on and off the stage. We hear about her time in New York studying at Cornell, what life is like on the rodeo for queens and ultimately what she plan…

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#173 Roughstock Roundtable 37:33

1+ y ago37:33

37:33

The Roughstock Roundtable features Ky Hamilton, Keenan Hayes and Stetson Wright. These three champions talk about what it is like being the young guns coming up and who they look up to in the sport. They talk about their individual events, routines, mindsets and what superstitions they may or may not have.…

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#172 2023 World Champion Bull Rider Ky Hamilton 27:38

1+ y ago27:38

27:38

The 2023 Wrangler NFR was a roller coaster ride for Ky Hamilton but he came out on top. Ky shares his story about winning his first world title and what it has meant to him. He also talks about what it is like traveling but also being best friends with Stetson Wright. We get to find out how that relationship began, how it has evolved, and how well …

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#171 8X PRCA World Champion Stetson Wright 37:50

1+ y ago37:50

37:50

Stetson Wright surprises us again and again! He shared the complete story of his injury and how his perspective changed after Round 2 of the 2023 NFR. He talks about the different dynamics of the Wright Family and how being the son of a champion has only pushed him to be better. He also shares a little bit about his daughter Kingsley, his thoughts …

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#170 NFR Director of In-Arena Video Production Brian Williams 37:57

1+ y ago37:57

37:57

Brian Williams has served as the NFR Director of In-Arena Video Production for three general managers – Shawn Davis, Boyd Polhamus and Allen Rheinheimer. He shares his story of moving to Las Vegas, how he got into this career and what it was like attending a rodeo for the very first time. After being around the NFR for over 20 years, he shares thou…

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Midsouth Memories: Spotlight! Chris Hero vs Samoa Joe 5/29/04

1+ y ago

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“Pro Wrestling’s BFF” Nick Maniwa & Mike Ruff (of RuffFigures.com) present the first ever Midsouth Memories: Spotlight! This Spotlight episode features the first time ever match of Chris Hero & Samoa Joe from “”A Shot of Southern Comfort” on May 29, 2004 in Highland, IN. If you have old IWAMS photos (96-05ish), please send them to me using the emai…

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#169 Television Host Janie Johnson 32:43

1+ y ago32:43

32:43

Mrs. Janie Johnson was on the opposite side of the mic this time and was still just a joy! She shared her history and her family's history in the Western industry but dove deeper into her film industry background and how that transpired into her career today. She talks about how the rodeo industry's television presence has significantly grown and w…

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Midsouth Memories – Locked 5/3/02

1+ y ago

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“Pro Wrestling’s BFF” Nick Maniwa & Mike Ruff (of RuffFigures.com) talk 2002’s Locked from Indianapolis’ Knights of Columbus hall featuring bloody midgets, a table match kinda?, lots of blood in a tag team title match, a 3 way featuring 3 of the best in IWAMS history, Jayden Draigo’s tribal shirt & much more. If you have old IWAMS photos (96-05ish)…

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#168 3X PRCA World Champion Bareback Rider Tim O'Connell 30:52

1+ y ago30:52

30:52

Life doesn't always go as planned, but you make the best of it, and that is exactly what Tim O'Connell is doing! Tim talks us through the full story of his injury that will take him out for the rest of 2024. However, Tim also shares the beauty in his story and how this year will be one of many first for himself and his family.…