Ep. 482: McKenzie Mitchell Showcases Wrestling’s Best Fashion

·47 min·4 clips

McKenzie Mitchell pitched a WWE fashion show six years ago, but they said there was no demographic for it.

The episode begins with hosts Hal Lublin, Danielle Radford, and Lindsey Kelk sharing personal updates, including Hal's experience on the JoCo cruise and listener interactions. They transition to promoting the MaxFun Drive, a listener-supported campaign for the podcast. The main interview features McKenzie Mitchell, an on-camera host for WWE and TNA, jewelry designer, and author of 'Threads of Triumph: Professional Wrestling's Most Iconic Looks.' Mitchell explains her background, starting with a broadcast degree from Ole Miss and her career in wrestling. She discusses the book's focus on unsung heroes like gear makers Surratt, Terry Anderson, and Julie Youngberg. Mitchell analyzes how wrestlers like Seth Rollins and Rey Mysterio could fit into high-fashion events like the Met Gala, noting Rollins' pink tulle cape at WrestleMania Hollywood. The conversation covers the evolution from consistent looks, like Hulk Hogan's red and yellow, to modern trends where wrestlers change gear frequently. Mitchell highlights current trends such as sneakers replacing traditional boots and collaborations like Cody's drumsticks. She shares anecdotes, including the Hardys finding their kickwear pants at a Gadzooks store and Mick Foley's Mankind mask darkening over time. Mitchell also talks about her jewelry business, Headline by M.M., which creates custom pieces for wrestlers like Seth Rollins and Trick Williams. The hosts ask about up-and-coming wrestlers, with Mitchell praising Trick Williams and Blake Monroe. After the interview, the hosts discuss recent wrestling news in 'The Three Count,' including CM Punk's promo criticizing Roman Reigns and ticket sales, a TikTok reel with Zelina and Jordan Grace, and Danhausen stealing a Slammy from WWE headquarters. The episode ends with host promotions and calls for listener support.

As heard by us

A funny, grounded look at how sneakers, denim, and streetwear shape wrestling style.

The episode treats wrestling fashion as more than decoration, looking at sneakers, streetwear, denim, and the basic problem of making clothes work when bodies have to move.

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Why you'd press play

Press play when wrestling gear starts drifting toward streetwear, especially if denim, cargo pants, and sneakers are involved.

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

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