TKO Revenue Report: The Real Story Behind WWE’s Numbers & What Fans Aren’t Being Told | Coach and Bro | November 6th, 2025

Full Podcast Summary / Notes (With Timestamps) [00:00:00 - 00:01:28] The Coach kicks off Hour 2 of the show, announcing a major guest appearance by Killer Karrion Kross later in the day. Welcomes back co-host Vince Russo , who shares his involvement with JCW (Juggalo Championship Wrestling) and the non-political, refreshing atmosphere there. [00:01:28 - 00:04:46] Discussion on JCW’s unique free events, star power, and community initiatives (giving away turkeys and Faygo). The Coach marvels at how the business model works and highlights the wrestler-first environment Violin J has created at JCW. [00:04:47 - 00:07:06] Conversation shifts to the rise of streaming and possible international media deals for JCW. Vince Russo teases future growth while emphasizing product quality as the determining factor for success. [00:07:07 - 00:11:25] Teasing key topics: TKO’s third quarter earnings, John Cena’s farewell tournament, and analysis of WWE’s creative direction. Candid talk about working relationships in WWE—how talent like Karrion Kross struggled when out of favor with management (specifically Triple H). [00:11:26 - 00:16:11] Deeper critique of WWE booking, questionable creative decisions (ex: Tiffany Stratton’s quick title loss), and unexplained storyline choices. The Coach and Vince Russo question long-term planning—especially with top talent like Brock Lesnar missing from key events and promos. [00:16:22 - 00:21:22] The show explores AEW’s Tony Khan’s unusual social-media approach, his openness vs. possible naivety in business, including seeking advice from “the wrong people.” Ratings talk: The team reflects on SmackDown dropping under a million viewers and possible ramifications for the business. [00:21:22 - 00:24:33] Dissecting TKO’s claims about strong WWE ratings in their earnings call, despite record-low TV ratings and sagging attendance. The Coach expresses doubts about management’s understanding (or honesty) regarding the WWE product in 2025. [00:24:33 - 00:32:55] Tournament Critique: The panel discusses WWE’s decision to run a 16-man tournament for John Cena’s ‘last match,’ questioning the lack of storytelling and reliance on surprise names like Edge or Chris Jericho. Insight into how (and why) major tournaments are often used as creative “breathers” but traditionally don’t drive ratings. [00:32:56 - 00:39:22] The Coach calls out WWE’s lack of urgency in booking and planning, contrasting it with the effective use of star power in Vince McMahon’s era. Reflection on how poor celebrity engagement and weak creative choices undermine John Cena’s farewell and WWE’s cultural impact. [00:39:23 - 00:52:46] Deep dive into TKO’s Q3 earnings call: The Coach and Vince Russo break down the reported 23% revenue increase, the reality of WWE’s massive corporate debt, and the questionable logic behind attributing revenue to “impressive” TV ratings and ticket prices. Discussion on market realities: WWE ticket prices are up, but demand and actual attendance are down. Caution for the future—if ticket sales and ratings continue to decline, will management finally change course, or are they riding the media rights wave until the well runs dry? Wrap-up: Karrion Kross’s appearance teased, and The Coach promises continued honest, insider analysis fans can trust. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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