Derrick T. Lewis & Wrestlemania 40 Predictions – Ep150

Derrick T Lewis does it all: actor, host, ring announcer, media personality, singer and big wrestling fan! Hear about all his successes from how he started ring announcing to his current deal with The Bleav Network. Also, last year Derrick was part of Wheel of Fortune’s WWE Week. He has also been to a ton of WWE shows including landing last minute seats to Wrestlemania 20. Then he and Evan break down Wrestlemania 40 which features Cody Rhodes & Seth Rollins vs Roman Reigns & The Rock on night 1 followed by Cody Rhodes vs Roman Reigns on night 2. It’s the 150th episode of Socially Awkward.

Stroke the earring and check out Derrick’s merch at: shop.derricktlewis.com. On social media, find Derrick at @TheRealDTLew on X, IG and Tiktok!

Also, Evan is now a WWE Shop affiliate so check out all their site wide deals at:  https://wwe-shop.sjv.io/g1EoKg.

Need some Awkward Wear? Check out the Evan’s Socially Awkward apparel including some Socially Awkward selections. $5 off w/ promo code: AWKWARD.

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WWE Wheel of Fortune Champion Grant Salzano – Ep 144

It’s been roughly a month since Wheel of Fortune’s WWE Week and Evan is talking to the champion contestant Grant Salzano. Grant won over $50,000 in cash and WWE-themed prizes over two shows in addition to the grand prize of tickets to Wrestlemania, Smackdown, the Hall of Fame and a Front-Row VIP experience for Monday Night Raw. Evan and Grant relive the key moments in his Wheel journey and how everything fell into place. Plus, he talks about being paired with Natalya Neidhart and how he designed a premium, customized title belt from the experience. All that and some pilot talk as Grant is making the most of his new license to fly. And as always, this episode has a license to be awkward.

Check out Grant Salzano on Twitter at twitter.com/salzano14.

In honor of Grant’s run on Wheel of Fortune, order a WWE Title belt on Amazon

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Need some ‘Awkward Wear‘? Check out the Evan’s Socially Awkward apparel including some Socially Awkward selections. $5 off w/ promo code: AWKWARD.

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Wheelmania: Tracina Jones & Ben Clark – Ep143

It’s Wheel of Fortune’s WWE Week and Evan has Wheel contestants on to recap and preview their appearances. Tracina Jones from Tampa partnered with Drew McIntyre. What did they talk about? How has her week been since going viral due to her incorrect ball-centric guess. Tracina is joining by Ben Clark who is about to partner with Big E. How did they manage to hit it off so well? And what event will Tracina and Ben even up attending next year? All that plus Tracina and Ben offer their full Wrestlemania predictions, and how Evan ended up as an alternate for WWE week. #playingwithballs

Check out Ben Clark’s art at instagram.com/benclarkdoodles.

In honor of Tracina’s viral moment on Wheel of Fortune, order a variety of balls off Amazon (pump included). 

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Need some ‘Awkward Wear‘? Check out the Evan’s Socially Awkward apparel including some Socially Awkward selections. Free Shipping with the promo code: AWKWARD.

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Ernie Elwood – Ep138

Ernie Elwood (aka Elijah Beers) and Evan first met when Evan performed for Theta Chi Fraternity at Central Missouri State several years ago. But now it is Ernie who has taken the stage as an independent wrestler. What is his gimmick? Why the name Ernie Elwood? Where does he see himself ending up professionally? We hear about all that plus his big match against Harley Race’s son on October 1 in St Joseph, MO!

In honor of Ernie’s appearance, get this “Someone Loves Your From Missouri” Candle on Amazon

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Need some ‘Awkward Wear‘? Check out the Evan’s new Funny Forever Tees apparel including some Socially Awkward selections. Free Shipping with the promo code: AWKWARD.

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Owen Alabado + Beckett Sage’s Wrestlemania 37 Predictions – Ep123

Owen Alabado is an actor, comedian, singer, dancer, martial artist – in other words, a Renaissance man. Hear how this Wisconsin native was drawn to theater, moved to Los Angeles and is currently kicking butt back in Wisconsin. He also talks about his comedy and he and Evan retrace their steps on how they met. (2:40) Then, returning to the podcast for the first time since Episode 1, Beckett Sage stops in to give his Wrestlemania 37 predictions, even though he does not regularly watch wrestling. Beckett also ponders at what age he will be able to beat up his dad and what his finishing move would be to take him down. (35:11) A double dose of awkward!

SUBSCRIBE to SOCIALLY AWKWARD, and support the podcast for as little as $1/month by going to patreon.com/funnyevan.

Need some ‘Awkward Wear‘? Get some ‘Socially Awkward clothing on Teespring. Free Shipping with the promo code: AWKWARD.

Facebook: @awkwardwithevan
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Website: awkwardwithevan.com

And in honor of Owen’s appearance, check out his film Brash Boys Club on Amazon.

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Radio J – Ep109

Radio J met Evan back on Long Island when they were both doing the local open mics. With a background in radio, Radio J is now in Florida networking with local acts and putting out his own podcast: Going Boom. Radio J and Evan talk about their Long Island days and throw in some wrestling talk and whether they would see live music in the era of Covid.

SUBSCRIBE to SOCIALLY AWKWARD, and support the podcast for as little as $1/month by going to patreon.com/funnyevan.

Need some ‘Awkward Wear‘? Get some ‘Socially Awkward clothing on Teespring. Free Shipping with the promo code: AWKWARD.

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Website: awkwardwithevan.com

To find out more about Radio J’s Coming Boom podcast, go to goingboompodcast.com.

And in honor of Radio J’s appearance, get an AEW t-shirt on Amazon. 

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Neil Kelly – Ep099

Neil Kelly was a student Mount Saint Joseph’s in Cincinnati when he hired Evan to play at the school’s spring concert. After 10 years they have reunited (while Neil is caught in a windy Covid-19 storm).

Evan gets Neil’s thoughts on the Democrat field, who was pushing for and how this will all play out as we live with the hysteria of Coronavirus. Then Evan recruits Neil to break down all the matches of Wrestlemania 36… without any knowledge of the current WWE product. Guaranteed awkwardness!

SUBSCRIBE to SOCIALLY AWKWARD, and support the podcast for as little as $1/month by going to patreon.com/funnyevan.

Need some ‘Awkward Wear‘? Get some ‘Socially Awkward clothing on Teespring. Free Shipping with the promo code: AWKWARD.

Facebook: @awkwardwithevan
Twitter: @awkwardwithevan
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Website: awkwardwithevan.com

In honor of Neil Kelly’s appearance and his support of Mayor Pete Buttigieg, get The Pete Buttigieg Coloring Book on Amazon

 

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Tim Chizmar – Ep096

Tim Chizmar is an author, screenwriter, producer, promoter and so much more. However, life was not always been rosy for him. Hear Tim’s honest account of how show business in Los Angeles drove him out of the state and led him to turn his life around in Idaho! Now Tim is in Las Vegas, but has he sought vengeance on Los Angeles? Find out all that and plus a little wrestling talk.

SUBSCRIBE to SOCIALLY AWKWARD, and support the podcast for as little as $1/month by going to patreon.com/funnyevan.

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In honor of Tim’s appearance, get his book “Soul Traitor” on Amazon!

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The DNC Goes WWE

Comparing the Democratic Presidential Candidates to WWE Personalities

As we are only one year away from the next presidential election, a lot still needs to be determined. Which candidate will get the rocket strapped to their back? Who is going to ‘get over’ organically in spite of what mainstream media want? Who will be buried? Will anyone get a mid-campaign repackaging?

If that terminology confuses you, that’s pro wrestling lingo. Sometimes to see what the future holds you need to compare a political campaign to an alarmingly similar, predetermined genre.

Back in 2016 I compared each Republican candidate to a WWE superstar. Well, we definitely have our main roster so it’s time to assign each Democratic candidate to its wrestling doppelganger, and perhaps future running mate.

Please note that I did consult with someone in the political know as well as allow a few words from my ‘Never-Trump’ Republican dad. Now let’s get a ref out here and meet your B+ players!


JOE BIDEN is ERIC BISCHOFF

My first image of Joe Biden is inappropriately rubbing a woman’s shoulders so, obviously, I could have compared him to the Attitude Era’s Val Venis, but the comparison would end there.

Like Biden, Bischoff has been around for a long time in very prominent roles. Biden was a Vice President and Bischoff actually had a higher ceiling of success when, as the head of WCW, he beat WWE in the ratings for over a year during the Monday Night Wars. The Democrats are hoping a return to Biden would create a spark much like when WWE made Bischoff an Executive Director of Smackdown earlier this year. Unfortunately, after a matter of months, WWE replaced Bischoff with another long-time wrestling expert Bruce Prichard. Will Biden meet the same fate in 2020?

My Dad Says: “I like him a lot.”

 

KAMALA HARRIS is NIA JAX

While Saturday Night Live may call Harris a ‘funt’ (fun aunt), in reality, she is a beast, much like Nia Jax. Both Kamala and Nia are ‘not like most girls.’ They can be savage and love to assault their competitors. When Nia Jax was coming up the ranks she would smile and then squash any competitor that got in her way. Kamala cuts to the chase and sometimes avoids debating her fellow Democrats, instead going straight to Trump and his Twitter account. Don’t expect a nice Nia when she returns from injury. Both these ladies mean business.

My Dad Says: “Would be a good attorney general.”

 

PETE BUTTIGIEG is DRAKE MAVERICK

Pete and Drake, who while both young-looking and diminutive, are actually quite versatile. The South Bend mayor is well-educated, a veteran and fluent in seven languages. Since leaving his TNA Rockstar Spud persona behind, so far at WWE, Drake has been the general manager of 205 Live, the manager of Authors of Pain and a multi-time 24/7 Champion (who also strives to consummate his marriage). Not much was expected from both these personalities, but they have made the most of their opportunity and shown their potential.

My Dad Says: “He’s alright; too young.”

 

CORY BOOKER is BOOKER T

Can you dig this, suckaaa!?

This pairing could not have been more copacetic, both in name and attitude. Both these Bookers are showmen. Cory can throw down a great political speech with the best of them, and Booker T can also command an audience whether it’s as a 5-time WCW champ or King Bookah!! Their streams also crossed during one of the early debates when Joe Biden was trying to make a point to which Cory Booker gave Biden a Booker T-esque look of “Tell me you did not just say that” and, lo and behold, Biden steps into a flavor of Kool-Aid he is not familiar with. Cory sometimes falls into the trap of trying to moderate his fellow candidates rather than push through so people know what it is he stands for. He should be primed to rise to the head of the field, but just like at Wrestlemania, the establishment of Triple H thwarted Booker T’s coming out party.

And, of course, let’s not forget the prominent women behind the men: Booker T has Queen Sharmell while Cory Booker is currently dating actress Rosario Dawson. All hail these Bookers!

My Dad Says: He’s a showman.

 

BERNIE SANDERS is BROCK LESNAR & PAUL HEYMAN

Both Sanders and Lesnar/Heyman are mainstays in their arenas and four years ago they were each an unstoppable movement, but each was derailed for different reasons. Sanders had the nomination swiped away from him so that Hillary Clinton could benefit. Lesnar lost his Universal Championship many times over so that Roman Reigns and later Seth Rollins could benefit. There are still fierce, but a slightly diluted version of their earlier selves, which might be inaccurate because Lesnar’s recent work has been fabulous.

Can they both climb the mountain again? Lesnar already has by squashing Kofi Kingston for the WWE title on Friday Night Smackdown. Can Bernie whittle his way through the field again? The comparison also includes Heyman because if you cross either one and irritate them with nonsense they will pull themselves up by their Jewish bootstraps and unleash a tirade that you will regret provoking, and that’s not a prediction, that’s a spoiler!

My Dad Says: “Can’t take him. [He’s] so far to the left he’s off a cliff.”

#AdEvan
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ELIZABETH WARREN is STEPHANIE MCMAHON

Warren appears to be is at the top of the Democratic totem pole (metaphor intended) when it comes to who will be the chosen one. McMahon is already a McMahon: she is the chosen one of professional wrestling (notwithstanding Drew McIntyre).

Both women are extremely progressive and look to continue to make radical changes to the status quo that will benefit many at the result of some philosophical inconsistencies. Warren’s mission is extremely left with a lot of everything ‘free.’ She wants free college, cancelled student debt, Medicare for All with no private insurance. A lot of the progressive things McMahon has done, or has at least taken credit for, is resurrecting women’s wrestling with the Women’s Revolution/Evolution that was borne out of the #GiveDivasAChance movement. There have also been all-women tournaments, pay-per-view events, and first-time-ever women’s matches in Abu Dhabi and Saudi Arabia. Both women have an extreme amount of momentum.

My Dad Says: “She oughta join Bernie (on the other side of the cliff). [She’s] a lot like Trump – a plan for this and that.”

 

JULIAN CASTRO is BARON CORBIN

Castro comes to the race as the former HUD Secretary. Corbin is ridiculed for coming to Raw and Smackdown looking like the former manager of an Applebee’s. Both men come off a little smug and out to prove others wrong. Castro wants to promote that he is the ‘antithesis of Donald Trump’ and Corbin masterfully comes off as the anti-thesis of anything likable. They have both settled into their roles, but Corbin is growing more prominent as King Corbin while Castro spites America’s king by escorting vulnerable asylum seekers from Mexico into Texas.

My Dad Says: No opinion.

 

AMY KLOBUCHAR is (Old) BAYLEY

While Bayley recently turned to the dark side, Klobuchar inquired about Brett Cavanaugh’s alcoholic darkside. Regardless, as they are mainly known, both women have that Midwest appeal. Klobuchar is a moderate and a fighter. Bayley is the only WWE women’s Grand Slam champion (Raw / Smackdown / NXT / Tag-Team) and a hugger. Klobuchar and the old Bayley are virtually clones, but then the new Bayley would simply strike both of them down. Perhaps if Klobuchar turned heel she could reach a new level that Bayley is currently enjoying as Smackdown Champion.

My Dad Says: “I like her. She’s like a female Biden.”

 

TULSI GABBARD is LACEY EVANS

Perhaps these are hidden, underappreciated crown jewels of their endeavors. Both women are veterans as Gabbard has served in the National Guard and continues to go on training missions during her campaign. Evans is a veteran of the Marine Corps. Both made their biggest impingement by going after their respective ‘big fish.’ Lacey Evans went straight to Becky Lynch when she debuted on Raw and Tulsi trended on Twitter while retorting back at Hillary Clinton for being accused of being a Russian asset. Both have the rare ability to straddle both sides of the aisle as Evans can use her military experience to instantly get the crowd on her side and Gabbard is not afraid to communicate with accused enemies by appearing on Tucker Carlson. One final reason for the comparison is that both women have made headlines for trips overseas. Gabbard is criticized for visiting the Syrian President, while for more monumental reasons, Evans just participated in the first ever WWE women’s match in Saudi Arabia.

My Dad Says: “An albatross. A problem with head of Syria. “

#AdEvan
Celebrate California’s Pharmaceutical Influence with a CaliPharma Shirt!

 

MARIANNE WILLIAMSON is BRAY WYATT

Williamson and Wyatt are rare breeds and both have extremely tailor-made viewpoints. Williamson, a self-help author, has challenged some fixed beliefs of Washington including the political zeitgeist, a blind faith to Big Pharma and mandatory vaccinations, but lacks Wyatt’s resolve as she has cowered a few times into backtracking.

When Wyatt first debuted as a Bayou-based cult leader, he would spout esoteric monologues that would initially sound like psychotic ramblings, but the more you listen to Williamson and Wyatt the more they can make sense. Williamson is struggling to break through and make the debate stage, but perhaps a repackaging similar to Wyatt’s Fiend character would benefit her, as Wyatt is now the Universal Champion and a well-layered personality. You can also assign a touch of Trish Stratus to Williamson as the WWE hall of famer has a similar spiritual and yoga background.

My Dad Says: “She’s off the wall.”

 

ANDREW YANG is “THE MILLION DOLLAR MAN” TED DIBIASE

The Million Dollar Man gimmick and the $1000/month proposal clearly highlight that, to Yang and Dibiase, it’s all about the money. Dibiase frequently claimed everybody has a price whether it was making someone dribble a basketball or rub the sweat off his body for $100. Yang just hopes his $1000/month trickle-up economics will buy him some votes. Dibiase’s signature is his laugh while for Yang it’s the fact he refers to his followers as the “Yang Gang.” Check please.

My Dad Says: “[He] doesn’t make much sense.”


CANDIDATE QUICK HITS  (We Barely Know Thee)

MICHAEL BENNET is SAMI ZAYN

This senator from Colorado is out to end the toxicity in partisan politics. When Sami Zayn returned from injury, rather than just being over-the-top annoying, he made it a point to turn the finger on the audience and point out all the toxicity on social media from the always-critical WWE Universe. Both men may realize it’s extremely hard to castigate people you regularly interact with when you’re trying to convince those same people you frequently interact with. Not sure how much longer Bennet can endure, but right now Zayn is playing mouthpiece for Shinske Nakamura.

My Dad Says: “A good guy, small following.”

 

JOHN DELANEY is DREW GULAK

At least we can always say Delaney is Mr. Mackey from South Park. But like Delaney, Gulak has workable ideas (via his Powerpoint presentations), which basically state that everyone else is wrong. And prior to his PPT slides, Gulak was a political persona on 205 Live.

My Dad Says: “Not very important. Not much of a following.”

 

STEVE BULLOCK is KEVIN OWENS

Bullock and Owens are impressive figures from Montana and Canada, respectively. The connection is a little light, but Owens could pass for someone from Montana. Bullock supports gun reform while Owens supports ‘stun’ reform (i.e. the Stone Cold Stunner). See what I did there? Unsure if Bullock can break through, but perhaps he can go straight to attacking Biden like Owens went straight to John Cena.

My Dad Says: [nothing]

#AdEvan
Buy Evan’s Book “Dumb Stuff” on Amazon


 

CANDIDATE QUICK HITS – We Barely Knew Thee

BETO O’ROURKE is TOM PHILLIPS

Beto’s surprise withdrawal will make most of this moot, but he and Philips both play the role of straightedge white men. But let’s go further: people have even accused Beto as being ‘White Obama’ i.e. an inspiring, slow talker. Philips also has that mild, milquetoast onscreen demeanor that allows him to contrast his frenetic fellow commentators such as Corey Graves and Byron Saxton. Beto had a plan to re-possess all guns everywhere, while Philips would just like to re-possess a commentary spot on WWE programming.

My Dad Says: “Not really. Too young & inexperienced.”

 

JAY INSLEE Is DANIEL BRYAN

Inslee’s sole issue was climate change. A limited platform led to a limited return, but at least he seamlessly corresponds to Daniel Bryan who was known as “The Planet’s Champion” as he lectures the audience about sustainability and even abandoned the traditional leather WWE title for one made of hemp.

My Dad Said: “He would be all right. Only one issue.”

 

BILL DE BLASIO is R-TRUTH

New York City Mayor de Blasio was running for workers’ rights, but according to many he was the village idiot, much like R-Truth. Unfortunately, de Blasio has to withdraw to return his title as “worst mayor ever” while Truth, whose ridiculous irrationality and one-liners, complement his achievements as a 20-time 24/7 Champion. But then again, like de Blasio, this title can be viewed as a joke title for lesser Superstars.

My Dad Said: “A horse’s ass. Had no business running.”


 

And What If…

HILLARY CLINTON is LINDA MCMAHON

What if all was going fine and then out of nowhere some “I’m With Her” theme music goes off and out comes a leviathan from past. Only Hillary Clinton could feel the itch and then change the game. Only a McMahon could eschew protocol and hit a reset on everything.

Both are not entirely invincible as Clinton came up short for the nomination in 2008 and the win in 2016, and McMahon has twice failed in a run for Congress. However, their name value and experiences can shake any predestined arrangement. Clinton is a former Secretary of State and has just wrapped a new book while McMahon recently served in Trump’s cabinet as the head of Small Business Administration. These are titans.

 

AND WAIT, that’s Michael Bloomberg’s music!

MICHAEL BLOOMBERG is VINCE MCMAHON

Who says billionaires can’t just swoop in and change their landscapes. Back in the 80s, McMahon said to heck with territories and decided to just buy up all the talent from the early territory days and do things his way. Bloomberg, who is registering for the Alabama primary, is saying enough to the Democratic field eating each other and is swooping in to say, “If you are going to eat each other, you cannot accompany this feast with an extra-large soft drink.” Vince was Trump four years ago and we learned you should never bet against a McMahon. Will Bloomberg follow suit?

Evan Wecksell is a guitar-playing comedian, writer and host of the podcast “Socially Awkward with Evan Wecksell.” He has appeared on Conan, The Goldbergs, Glee and WWE Network. Follow him @evanwecksell on Twitter and Instagram.

All photos courtesy of Wikipedia Commons.

 

 

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Sean Snead – Ep089

Evan wraps up his I Love the 80s series with 1989’s Sean Snead. And all this time Evan thought his name was Sean Austin. Why is that? Plus, Evan and Sean talk video games, wrestling and give a rapid-fire preview of Wrestlemania 35!

SUBSCRIBE to SOCIALLY AWKWARD, and support the podcast for as little as $1/month (or as much as $200) by going to patreon.com/funnyevan.

Facebook: @awkwardwithevan
Twitter: @awkwardwithevan
Instagram: @awkwardwithevan
Website: awkwardwithevan.com

In honor of Wrestlemania 35, get Wrestlemania 34 on Amazon! Or get Evan’s new paperback!

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Elias Fanous – Ep082

Evan continues his “I Love the 80s” series with 1982’s Elias Fanous! Elias talks Theta Chi Fraternity, lawyer life, vacation spots, the Flint water supply and if he is aware of WWE’s Elias. It’s a quick discussion with one of Michigan’s finest. Time to WALK WITH ELIAS!

SUBSCRIBE to SOCIALLY AWKWARD, and support the podcast for as little as $1/month (or as much as $250) by going to patreon.com/funnyevan.

Facebook: @awkwardwithevan
Twitter: @awkwardwithevan
Instagram: @awkwardwithevan
Website: awkwardwithevan.com

In honor of Elias, go on Amazon and get a WWE ‘Walk With Elias‘ t-shirt!

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Wrestlemania 34 Preview w/ Ian Andrew Jones – Ep069

It’s Wrestlemania week so Evan welcomes Facebook friend and fellow wrestling fan Ian Andrew Jones. First, Ian discusses PWG [Pro Wrestling Guerrilla] finding a new venue in LA and his early memories of the venue. Then it’s a trip down WWF memory lane before landing on this year’s Wrestlemania. It’s Brock Lesnar vs Roman Reigns, Ronda Rousey & Kurt Angle vs Triple H & Stephanie McMahon. And will John Cena fight The Undertaker? And don’t forget the return of Daniel Bryan! Why listen to two-hour preview podcasts when Ian & Evan get it done in under 40 minutes?! YES! YES! YES!

SUBSCRIBE to SOCIALLY AWKWARD, and support the podcast for as little as $1/month by going to patreon.com/funnyevan.

Like WWE & playing UNO? Here are some WWE UNO Cards on Amazon! Or just get a Wrestlemania 34 shirt.

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Jennifer Berookhim / High School Reunion Recap – Ep060

Evan’s high school reunion came and went, and to break it all down he is joined by fellow attendee and Great Neck South Rebel Jenny Berookhim aka Jenny B aka Jennifer Soumekh. How did the 20-year compare to the 10-year? Who did they enjoy seeing? Who did they wish were there? What were the most popular questions of the night? Evan and Jenny are dropping names, giving shoutouts and plugging some of their class’ businesses. And to Evan’s delight, Jenny reveals that she is a big WWE fan! Also, what’s next for Jenny, the time they ran into each other on 9/11 and special bonus stories about tormenting their 8th grade English teacher as well as the day their 9th grade Biology teacher flipped off the entire class.

SUBSCRIBE to SOCIALLY AWKWARD, and support the podcast for as little as $1/month by going to patreon.com/funnyevan.

The holiday season is now! Did you know Jenny’s favorite wrestler is Dean Ambrose? Get the t-shirt and action figure on AMAZON!

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Navpreet Singh aka Nav The Poet – Ep058

Poetry and wrestling take centerstage for the first time since Lanny Poffo played “The Genius.” Evan chats with Navpreet Singh aka Nav The Poet aka The Third Singh Brother. Nav talks about how he got started in poetry, where his inspiration comes from and what’s next for him. He also discusses Jinder Mahal’s recent WWE Championship run and what it meant to India.

Evan and Nav then transition to preview WWE Survivor Series, a Thanksgiving tradition that this year is featuring two 5-on-5 elimination matches and such bouts as AJ Styles vs Brock Lesnar and The Shield vs The New Day. 

We’re strapping the rocket to Nav and pushing him to the moon. Have a listen so he can get over. (This is all wrestling jargon.)

SUBSCRIBE to SOCIALLY AWKWARD, and support the podcast for as little as $1/month by going to patreon.com/funnyevan.

Get the new 30 Years of Survivor Series DVD on AMAZON!

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Jake Ramirez + WWE No Mercy Preview – Ep053

Actor Jake Ramirez joins Socially Awkward this week as he speaks to Evan for the first time since Evan performed at his college, Otterbein University, in 2011. Now in Los Angeles, Jake has appeared on such shows as New Girl2 Broke Girls and Superstore. Jake shares how he got into acting, why he moved to LA and also delves into his ability to find extremely cheap flights all over the world. $50 from Cincinnati to Las Vegas?! Less than $10 to jump countries in Europe?! Jake shares all his travel hacks.

Plus, Evan and Jake preview/predict WWE’s No Mercy PPV that features John Cena vs Roman Reigns and Brock Lesnar vs Braun Strowman. This episode is one giant white-meat babyface. #kayfabe

SUBSCRIBE to SOCIALLY AWKWARD, and support the podcast for as little as $1/month by going to patreon.com/funnyevan.

Get the new Amazon Fire HD Tablet on Amazon!

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Kevin Callahan – Ep044

Evan hits the mutual interests jackpot this episode as he interviews fellow Long Islander Kevin Callahan, aka fellow Theta Chi Fraternity brother Kevin Callahan, aka fellow wrestling fan Kevin Callahan! Hear how their paths crossed during one of Evan’s show at Wagner College. Plus, Kevin discusses his time at the Alabama Shakespeare Company, random acts of brotherhood on the LIRR and what he thinks of the renovated Nassau Coliseum. And of course, wrasslin’ chatter.

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Wrestlemania 33 Preview w/ Chris Russo – Ep036

This week SOCIALLY AWKWARD is the ultimate thrill ride as Evan welcomes fellow Theta Chi Fraternity brother and former WWE NXT (and current Reality of Wrestling) Announcer Chris Russo. (3:54) Hear how Chris got his start working (and bumping) for WXW, a promotion operated by The Wild Samaon Afa, and how it led to his announcing for WWE’s developmental entity FCW/NXT. There he got to work alongside Dusty Rhodes, William Regal and Jim Ross and call the early matches of current WWE superstars Seth Rollins, Bray Wyatt and Bo Dallas. 

Chris and Evan then go full Mega Powers as they break down the Wrestlemania 33 card (23:31), which features Goldberg vs Brock Lesnar, Roman Reigns vs The Undertaker and Bray Wyatt vs Randy Orton. 

Finally, after playing in the background the entire episode, four-year-old WWE theme expert Beckett Sage returns to SOCIALLY AWKWARD with his own Wrestlemania predictions and analysis. (49:30) That’s why!

Support SOCIALLY AWKWARD for as little as $1/month by going to patreon.com/funnyevan.

Get a free month of podcast hosting or podcast statistics with the promo code ‘evan‘ at:
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Evan’s Amazon link: http://amzn.to/2lCb07k

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Who The Hell Is Jake Johnson – Ep029

Jake Johnson, one of Evan’s newest Facebook friends, just won a contest to open for Bon Jovi on February 18 in Nashville, Tennessee!!

Hear how he found out, when he started playing guitar, who his musical influences are and, most importantly, what are his Bon Jovi songs. Jake also addresses doubters who think he got the gig because of his connection to the band.

Jake proves he is a hard worker who approaches his career with the right attitude… and he would like someone to buy his mom and stepdad’s house in Utah.

#whothehellisjakejohnson
#NotJackJohnson

Support SOCIALLY AWKWARD for as little as $1/month by going to patreon.com/funnyevan.

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Announcer Chuck Lott & Royal Rumble Preview – Ep028

Chuck Lott is an announcer for Madison Square Garden, St. John’s Basketball, The New York Mets, and, thankfully, is a huge WWE fan.

Evan and Chuck (aka “LaVoz”), figure out how they became Facebook friends and then Chuck talks about announcing at live events, doing improv with WWE’s Dolph Ziggler and how he can usually swing a seat in business class, even when he doesn’t have a ticket!

‘E & C’ then break down this Sunday’s Royal Rumble, offering their match picks and who they want to win the Rumble and who they think will win. Wrestling nerds, unite! With #LaVoz, wrestling talk has never sounded smoother.

Support SOCIALLY AWKWARD for as little as $1/month by going to patreon.com/funnyevan.

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Josh Lopez of Wrestlezone – Ep012

In a bonus episode, Evan spontaneously reunites with professional broadcaster and Wrestlezone.com stenographer Josh Lopez. Evan talks with the native Chicagoan first about the World Series and the state of Chicago sports (6:05) before transitioning to WWE. They share their love of CM Punk (7:40), the time Evan performed with Colt Cabana (10:40) and the James Ellsworth phenomenon (12:00). They then preview the upcoming pay-per-view Hell In A Cell before comparing wrestling crowds around the world and marveling at the engagement of Paige and Alberto Del Rio. Drink it in, mmaaaannnn!

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Comedian Ryan Niemiller – Ep008

After kicking off the episode with a political rant (2:13), this week Evan gets lost in conversation with “The Cripple Threat of Comedy” Ryan Niemiller. Despite missing bones and fingers in both hands, Ryan has turned this supposed liability into an asset in his life and career (17:20), i.e. he can type really fast and play video games on 20 different consoles (11:20)!

Hear how Ryan got started in comedy (24:14), how he has incorporated his disability into his act (25:55) and even how one of his sets went viral! He also opens up about how it has affected his dating life (29:15).

Besides video games, Ryan is a HUGE wrestling fan (thanks to Doink) (35:55). He and Evan also get into the current state of WWE, Roman Reigns (48:33), PWG, Lucha Underground and NXT. Finally, Ryan and Evan each fantasy book themselves into wrestling programming.

Even if you’re not a video game or wrestling fan, this conversation will leave you hooked. (Pun intended.)

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Actor Steve Moulton – Ep007

Actor STEVE MOULTON (Sharknado, Waking, Impress Me) joins Evan for a massive nerd-out session. First, they discuss Steve’s movie credits and then Steve tells Evan how Kevin Smith played a role in his playing a clerk in Sharknado (12:25). They later talk Marvel superheroes and compare their meeting John Cena stories (18:54). Steve is also an avid fan of Disneyland so he offers some insider tips if you are thinking of going (27:39) and you bet he has an opinion on the Disney/Star Wars partnership as well as the new Star Wars movies (36:21). Evan then finds out more about Steve’s movie-centric podcast “View the Right Thing” (42:42) and finally, they lament on how difficult it is to keep up with all their favorite TV shows. #nerdlife 

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Actor Henrik Rutgersson – Ep006

Henrik Rutgersson is a tall, dark, handsome and Swedish actor. Hear how John Hughes motivated him to move to America (7:11), his love of acting and how you may soon see Henrik’s new show “Swedish Dicks,” featuring Keanu Reeves, in the states (13:05). We also recap Henrik’s experiences on “American Horror Story” opposite Lady Gaga (17:45)! Henrik and Evan then talk hockey (23:24) and later Evan tries to convince Henrik to watch wrestling again (28:30). And what’s a podcast without Henrik’s take on the 2016 election and good ole political corruption (32:06). You’ll want to cast a write-in vote for Henrik after this one!

Help support SOCIALLY AWKWARD for as little as $1/month by visiting www.patreon.com/funnyevan.

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Poker Professional Shannon Burwell – Ep005

Decade-long Facebook friend/Actress/Poker Phenom SHANNON BURWELL comes to SOCIALLY AWKWARD this week. First we reveal Shannon’s connection to OJ Simpson Prosecutor Marcia Clark (6:44), her web series that was made using only a Flip camera (17:00) and her appearance on 7th Heaven (18:40). She also gets into her poker background (9:00) and gives insider tips on how to be a better poker player. Evan and Shannon also discuss California’s mandatory vaccine controversy right before she turns the tables on Evan and asks him her longstanding questions about him, which turns into a WWE primer (33:05) as well as an inside look into performing at colleges (while traveling with mom). So hunt down OJ, Jessica Biel and your poker buddies because Shannon Burwell is where it’s at!

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[REPOST from SportSanityNYC.com] The GOP Goes WWE

The following appears on a new sports blog, www.sportsanitynyc.com. This is easily the greatest thing I have ever written. I have included URLs within the post for reference. I’m so proud I get to teach you wrestling lingo.

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The GOP Goes WWE: Which Republican Candidate Matches Which Wrestler?

The worlds of politics and professional wrestling are not as different as you might think. The same storylines always seem to circle back, there is always a good guy (babyface) and a bad guy (heel), and a lot of the outcomes are predetermined.

So as we now have about as many Republican candidates as we have hours of original weekly WWE programming (which includes the streaming wrasslin’ utopia that is the WWE Network), let’s try to differentiate the herd and see which aspiring POTUS resembles which sports entertainer.

Disclaimer: So I didn’t go in blind, I consulted a former political insider as well as my right-wing, Fox News-loving dad. I will keep both identities anonymous.

 

Jeb Bush is Roman Reigns

Jeb Bush - Roman ReignsGood ole’ Jeb was going to be the GOP’s next ‘main guy’ just like Roman Reigns was going to be the next John Cena. Jeb had name recognition and a strong political heritage much like Reigns had ‘the look’ and a rich Samoan wrestling bloodline. Here’s the problem: when the time came for both men to shine, their coronations came off like, as Jim Ross would say, “a fart in church.” At least Roman has better ethics and didn’t illegally fundraise before he was put in the Wrestlemania 31 main event. However, both campaigns had to do damage control early.

Roman was serenaded with fierce boos in Philadelphia after winning this year’s overly predictable Royal Rumble and his subsequent fairy tale promos towards the Big Show did not help either. Jeb needed about ten different interviews and speaking events to finally answer the obvious “Knowing what we know now, would you have still invaded Iraq?” question correctly. Both these men had the rocket ship strapped to them, but neither finished their NASA training. Despite all the backlash, Roman Reigns has recovered considerably well and it should be only a matter of months until he is wearing WWE gold. The question now is, ‘Will Jeb Bush recover in time for debate season?’

What my dad thinks: “I could vote for him.”

 

Ben Carson is R-Truth

Ben Carson - R-TruthDespite having some genuine humanity, Dr. Ben Carson has no business entering the Republican race just as R-Truth had no business being in the Intercontinental Championship Ladder Match at Wrestlemania. However, if Ben Carson can separate conjoined twins at the head, maybe he can separate Middle East conflict. Both these men seem to be better at things other than what they are doing. If he weren’t retired, Ben Carson would be better served staying in the operating room, much like R-Truth would be better served just gyrating in the street yelling, “What’s Up!” at everybody. (Note: I’ve heard Truth’s song for at least five years and still have no idea what he’s saying.)

Recently, Carson and Truth both experienced moments of cluelessness. A few weeks ago on Raw, Truth came out to cut a promo about his participation in the Money in the Bank Ladder Match. Only problem was that he was never put in that match. Thankfully, that was done intentionally for humor. Ben Carson thinks you go into prison straight and come out gay.  That was done unintentionally for humor.

What my dad thinks: “No experience in government.”

 

Chris Christie is Brock Lesnar & Paul Heyman
(Honorable mention: Ryback)

Chris Christie - Brock LesnarGovernor Christie, freshest to the race, can be matched up with multiple wrestlers for different reasons could not be denied. First the easier comparison: Ryback’s catchphrase is “Feed Me More.” You do the math, even though there is no math involved. Ryback eats negativity like Christie eats fried dough on the Jersey Shore.

Christie’s comparison to the Beast Incarnate and his advocate work more beautifully because of the dynamic Lesnar and Heyman create together. They do what they want and don’t care what anyone thinks of them, and with Heyman from the Bronx and Christie from New Jersey they both have that trademark tri-state antagonism. When Brock Lesnar walked out of a Monday Night Raw taping weeks before Wrestlemania and as well as the expiration of his WWE contract, the die-hard WWE fans all worried that Brock Lesnar’s return to UFC was a certainty. However, Paul Heyman knew better as he explained the following week, “Brock Lesnar does what he wants when he wants.” If Brock wants to jam up WWE’s creative plans he can, because he’s Brock Lesnar. So if Governor Christie wants to jam up the George Washington Bridge in afternoon rush hour he can, because he’s Chris F’in Christie.

Furthermore, Brock Lesnar works a very part-time schedule for WWE, but sure does enjoy taking Vince McMahon’s full-time money. We are not sure how much the New Jersey Governor actually works, but we know one thing: he sure likes spending New Jersey taxpayer money on food and alcohol. On second thought, maybe he is more like Ryback. Or maybe we will see him at Wrestlemania 32, once again awkwardly hugging Jerry Jones in the Cowboys owner’s skybox.

What my dad thinks: “I’m neutral on him.”

 

Ted Cruz is Bray Wyatt

Ted Cruz - Bray WyattIf you don’t know who Bray Wyatt is think half-Charles Manson and half-Robert DeNiro’s character in Cape Fear. Now if you were sitting in a movie theater, who would scare you more if they were cackling in front of you: Cruz or Wyatt? (Hopefully this poll is in the sidebar.)

While Wyatt borders on cool (the imagery of fans holding up their iPhone flashlights during Wyatt’s entrances to simulate fireflies is breathtaking), both these personalities are meant to scare the hell out of you and they do it with similar methods. Bray opines in his rocking chair or backstage in dark settings, sometimes singing (with the audience) that “He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands.” Senator Cruz reads Green Eggs & Ham in front of Congress. Both creepy. And as Wyatt preaches about all the doom and destruction he will bring to each opponent, Cruz will literally make little girls cry because “the whole world’s on fire.” You tell me who is the ‘New Face of Fear.’ Why is this not Ted Cruz’s campaign slogan? I’m assuming Lindsey Graham is already trademarking it.

What my dad thinks: “Too far right. Persuasive, but I don’t like him as a person.”

 

Speaking of…

Lindsey Graham is Brother Love

Lindsey Graham - Brother LoveThere is something about Lindsey Graham that just screams (or blushes) televangelist, specifically WWF’s Brother Love from the late 80s/early 90s. Based solely on the South Carolina senator’s gentle, almost effeminate (his name is Lindsay) Southern drawl, it is almost as nauseating as Brother Love’s “I Love You” monologues that filled the preacher’s on-air segments. Brother Love and Senator Graham are both swarmy and effusive in order to cover up their true motives. Brother Love claimed to do everything in the name of love, but the irony was that he didn’t love us. Brother Love was more interested in supporting those who brought destruction to the WWF. In fact, Brother Love was the original manager of the Undertaker. Whenever you hear Senator Graham on the news, his message trickles down from his basic truth that the sky is falling and a second wave of plagues is approaching. If Senator Cruz thinks the whole world is on fire, then Lindsay Graham is bringing over the gasoline he just bought at his local Walmart.

What my dad thinks: “I like him. He’s my 1st choice.”

 

Carly Fiorina is Vicki Guerrero

Vicki Guerrero - Carly Fiorina#GiveDivasAChance. So it’s decided: that should be her campaign slogan. Basically, her platform is ‘I’m a woman and I used to run Hewlett Packard.’ Well, Vicki Guerrero is a woman and she used to run Raw and Smackdown. Unfortunately, both ladies had some rough days at the office. Fiorina is known as one of the worst tech CEOs ever, which is what happens when your company cuts 30,000 jobs and causes its own mini-Great Depression. Guerrero’s hard times were more drama-based. Her husband Edge cheated on her with Alicia Fox, The Rock sang her a derogatory parody of Eric Clapton’s “Wonderful Tonight,” and on her last night on the job, Stephanie McMahon threw her in a tub of poo. Hey, unlike Fiorina, at least she never crashed WWE’s stock.

What my dad thinks: “She’s just in it for the thrill.”

 

Mike Huckabee is Eric Bischoff

Mike Huckabee - Eric BischoffFundamentalist Mike Huckabee matches up most closely to Eric Bischoff, the former Executive Producer and President of now-defunct wrestling promotion WCW. Ask any wrestling fan about the Monday Night Wars, a boom period for the genre in the late 90s where Ted Turner’s World Championship Wrestling was giving Vince McMahon’s WWF a run for its money. WCW’s Monday Night Nitro beat WWF’s Monday Night Raw in the ratings for over 80 straight weeks. Eric Bischoff’s motivation was to put Vince McMahon out of business, much like Mike Huckabee’s job is to put views inconsistent with the Bible out of business. While Mike Huckabee’s popularity didn’t peak as high as WCW’s, he did have more credibility in 2008 during his ‘Hucka-heyday.’ Now it seems like he’s in the race just to say he is in the race. (At least he can raise his appearance fees after he drops out — an ulterior motive to run for any political office.)/

While Bischoff and Huckabee rode their own waves of success, eventually unpopular opinions and gross mismanagement plummeted their credibility. WCW put their championship belt on David Arquette (yes, the actor who was married to Courtney Cox). Mike Huckabee supported Josh Duggar of everyone’s favorite TLC show 19 Kids and Counting (where no learning took place). And even when the media gave Huckabee a chance to flip-flop, unlike Jeb Bush, he did not take the hint. Huckabee’s opinions never seem to appeal to the majority, much like how WCW’s storyline never benefited the majority of the roster. That’s what happens when Bischoff lets people like Kevin Nash and Hulk Hogan have creative control over their own storylines. RIP Goldberg’s Streak.

Once WWF fully embraced their Attitude Era, WCW did not have a chance, which culminated in Vince McMahon purchasing the competition in 2001. After WCW’s demise, Eric Bischoff did show up occasionally on WWE programming much like Mike Huckabee showed up on Fox News. Unfortunately, especially with the recent Supreme Court same-sex marriage ruling, it appears that even Fox News is putting Huckabee out with the trash – a gesture Bischoff is all too familiar with. Huckabee didn’t need Attitude, just latitude.

What my dad thinks: “Too damn religious.”

 

Rand Paul is Chris Jericho and Ted Dibiase, Jr

Rand Paul - Chris JerichoBack in May, Senator Rand Paul took a stand when he engaged in a 10-hour filibuster in Congress to ensure the Patriot Act would not get renewed. Senator Paul ticked off all of his colleagues in the name of his beliefs. Back on WCW’s Nitro in 1998, Chris Jericho agitated an entire roster and audience when the “Man of 1004 Holds” stood in the middle of the ring and read off that entire list of holds. Sometimes it takes time to show how committed you are.

Paul’s more appropriate and harmonious comparison is to Ted Dibiase Jr, which rests on the fact that each has/had to live up to who their fathers are. Ron Paul was a long time Congressman who became somewhat of a folk hero in 2008 with his progressive/traditional Libertarian views. Rand is more conservative, but holds enough of his dad’s values to appeal to multiple GOP bases. Ted Jr, whose father is WWE Hall of Famer “The Million Dollar Man” Ted Dibiase, although no longer actively wrestling, had a lot to live up to and having the exact same name as daddy did not help. When he wasn’t getting over on his own, WWE simply made him a rich, trust fund kid character going so far as bringing back his dad’s valet Virgil. Ted Jr couldn’t break away from who his father was. Can Senator Rand separate himself? (He should since his views include an isolationist foreign policy.)

What my dad thinks: “I can’t stand him.”

 

Rick Perry is John Laurinaitis

Rick Perry - John LaurinaitisJohn Laurinaitis used to be WWE’s Executive Vice President of Talent Relations. Although he currently flourishes with WWE as a Senior Producer, his 2011-2012 onscreen “People Power” persona was inspired by CM Punk calling him a “glad-handing, nonsensical douchebag yes man.” That description is not that far off from Governor Rick Perry. Even though the governor floundered in 2012, he has returned with a vengeance because this time… he is wearing glasses. However, much like the raspy Laurinaitis stumbled through promo over promo, Perry gets to stumble through interview after interview. Just cue the quote where he calls the Charleston shooting an “accident.” Both men showed us that it is not the context that makes you look stupid, it’s the stupid that makes you look stupid.

What my dad thinks: “He is overrated by Texas.”

 

Marco Rubio is The Miz

Marco Rubio - The MizWhenever the WWE needs a superstar to make a public appearance or go on a talk show, The Miz is the first to stand up. And whenever the GOP wants to put out their camera-friendly, smooth-talking representative on special occasions, like after the State of the Union, they give us Marco Rubio. Both men look youthful (Rubio probably still gets carded), possess strong mic skills and have worked their way up from the bottom. Rubio looks like the Republican ‘Boy Wonder’ to everyone else’s Batman, but could soon get the nomination and be the headliner that The Miz was at Wrestlemania 27. Lastly, both come off extremely metrosexual. The Miz always sports extravagant designer outerwear while junior Senator Rubio recently showed up in Iowa like he just used his J. Crew gift card.

What my dad thinks: “I call him babyface. Acceptable.”

 

Donald Trump is Vince McMahon

Donald Trump - Vince McMahonIs there a comparison that could be any more perfect? These billionaires, who have been friends since Trump Plaza hosted Wrestlemania IV and V, and both have the catchphrase “You’re Fired!” actually squared off, kinda, during Wrestlemania 23. Each mogul picked their own superstar to represent them in a hair vs hair match. When all was said and done, The Donald’s Bobby Lashley beat Vince’s Umaga, and Trump shaved McMahon’s head.

These men are almost carbon copies of each other: power-hungry, relentless, brash and opinionated. In his WWE universe, Vince McMahon has had unruly superstars arrested (i.e. Stone Cold Steve Austin), he has cheated on his wife with younger women, started his own religion and made people literally kiss his ass. Doesn’t it sound like Donald Trump could have already done all that in real life?

And what has McMahon done in real life? Vince bought up all his competition on multiple occasions, beat the federal government over steroids and started his own football league, the XFL, that even though it was short-lived, offered the NFL many innovative ideas to enhance its coverage. Trump also dabbled in football, being the initial owner of the USFL’s New Jersey Generals back in 1983. But like McMahon, he chose to jump ship because becoming a global lord takes priority.

If Trump picks Vince as his running mate, expect them to lead an administration that would travel the globe buying up third-world countries, ridding the world of women over 50, deporting anyone whose hair does not measure up to theirs, and encouraging racial stereotypes. Sorry Latino population, you had a good run. Get ready for their Elysium.

What my dad thinks: “He’s an egotistical clown.”

 

Candidate Rapid Fire:

Bobby Jindal is The Great Khali

At first, both looked like they could do a lot of damage, but when they got on the mic or in the ring, our expectations sank. If Beth Phoenix can kiss Khali out of the Royal Rumble, maybe some accidental Fiorina cleavage could ruin Jindal’s entire family and candidacy.

Scott Walker is The Ascension

They both came in with a lot of hype and loud music, but have so far proved milquetoast. Maybe if it was a different era they could flourish, but unfortunately the Wisconsin Governor and the NXT-bred tag team do not stand out as much as they should.

George Pataki is every enhancement wrestler (i.e. Barry Horwitz).

The former NY governor is just in the race to make every other candidate look better. Maybe he will get in an early punch, but in two minutes he will be tapping out to Rusev’s The Accolade.

Rick Santorum is the Spanish Announce Table
I thought he got destroyed back in 2012, but like a Spanish announce table it always shows up at that next big event. And at the next big event, it gets destroyed again. Like Santorum, the Spanish announce table does not have a strong foundation. Maybe if it used an adhesive made from Senator Rick’s urban dictionary definition, it would hold up better.

*All photos from Wikipedia.

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Evan Wecksell is touring comedian who has appeared on VH1, E! and Conan. Follow him @evanwecksell and like his WWE-sanctioned child Beckett Sage.

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