Wrestling Mayhem Show 959: Hanging with Hardcam Frio
On this remote episode of Wrestling Mayhem Show, Sorg and Rizz are joined by Detroit-based wrestling videographer Hardcam Frio! Broadcasting from Ann Arbor, Michigan, the crew dives deep into the current state of WWE contract changes, the legacy of R-Truth, and the evolution of independent wrestling media—especially in Detroit. Plus, reactions to Logan Paul’s impact on the business, speculation around The Miz and Gunther, and the increasing role of social media in wrestling careers. We also get wild tales from ringside, including fire spots, syringes, and a paint glass firecracker spot that has to be heard to be believed!
🧵 Topics & News Summaries:
R-Truth Contract & WWE Releases:
R-Truth possibly leaving WWE after reportedly rejecting a lower-paying contract.
Discussion about the legacy of R-Truth and his place as a long-time WWE entertainer.
Frio and Rizz speculate on his future—whether in AEW, TNA, or the indie scene.
TKO’s Financial Health & WWE Talent Cuts:
Debate about TKO’s reported debt vs. their revenue strength.
Skepticism about TKO’s strategy of cutting veteran contracts in favor of cheaper talent.
Social Media Blackouts by WWE Stars:
Notable wrestlers like The Miz and Gunther unfollowing WWE on social media.
Speculation about contract disputes or larger backstage discontent.
Carrying Cross vs. Logan Paul – The Internet Clout Debate:
Discussion about Kross calling out the system that prioritizes influencers over wrestling veterans.
Broader debate on how WWE’s control over talents’ online presence hurt their own brands.
Hardcam Frio’s Journey:
Frio shares how he began filming Detroit wrestling events using just a phone.
Now ringside for many shows and running a YouTube channel with 67,000+ subscribers.
Discusses capturing wild moments like flaming elbow drops, firework bumps, and light tube chaos.
Detroit Wrestling Scene:
Mention of numerous promotions: Horror Slam, XICW, Clash Wrestling, Metro Pro, Circle 6, etc.
The evolution of independent wrestling media in the region.
Discussion on deathmatch wrestling’s appeal, storytelling, and visceral spectacle.
Hardcam Frio’s Gear and Content Strategy:
Still primarily uses a phone (iPhone 16 Pro Max) but gains professional respect.
Talks about his growth, merch via Brain Buster Tees, and unique fanbase.
DVDs vs. YouTube:
Ongoing struggle with DVD production and the shift to free YouTube content.
Reflections on media access and preserving indie wrestling history.
Scotty from Enjoy Wrestling – Cameo Chaos:
Scotty Swemba lurks in the background, contributing off-mic commentary and chaos.
Fun banter about future Enjoy merch including a “wedding dress DVD.”
💡 “What We Learned” Segment:
Sorg: Reflected on how bizarre and surreal his week has been, from filming autonomous cars to insane deathmatch wrestling.
Frio: YouTube comments can be even more disturbing than the matches he films.
Rizz: WWE is walking a precarious line with veteran talent and audience trust.
Tina (chat): Noted that NXT continues to shake things up, especially in the women’s division, and it’s a “cruel summer” of changes.
True Prince (chat): Called the Women’s Money in the Bank match possibly the best ever in terms of star power.
