All Episodes

October 8, 2025 • 93 mins

🔥 EPISODE 32 – “The Unmatched Legacy of Bruno Sammartino- The Conclusion!”

🔥 He was more than a champion — he was the Living Legend. This week on When It Was Real, wrestling historian Nikita Breznikov and journalist Benny "The Playa" Scala dive deep into the life, legacy, and larger-than-life presence of Bruno Sammartino — the most beloved wrestler of all time. From Madison Square Garden sellouts to the hearts of millions, Bruno’s story is one of grit, glory, and real respect.

Last week, Nikita and Benny covered from Bruno’s early days in Italy, through his first title reign, his loss to Ivan Koloff and his win over Stan Stasiak at Madison Square Garden on December 10, 1973. This week, the conclusion of Bruno’s career to include his broken neck, his epic feud with Spiros Arion, and the final Showdown at Shea against his pupil turned Judas, Larry Zbyszko.

👊 Was there ever anyone like Bruno?

❤️ Why did fans love him like no other?

🤔 What made his era truly real?

📺 Watch LIVE on The Playa Entertainment Network!

🛎️ Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and hit that bell so you never miss the moments… When It Was Real.

#BrunoSammartino #WhenItWasReal #WrestlingLegends #WWFHistory #WrestlingPodcast #WrestlingHistory #NikitaBreznikov #BennyScala #ThePlayaEntertainmentNetwork #WrestlingRoyalty #ProWrestling #WrestlingGOAT #MadisonSquareGarden #OldSchoolWrestling

Mark as Played

Advertise With Us

Popular Podcasts

Stuff You Should Know
Dateline NBC

Dateline NBC

Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com

The Breakfast Club

The Breakfast Club

The World's Most Dangerous Morning Show, The Breakfast Club, With DJ Envy, Jess Hilarious, And Charlamagne Tha God!

Music, radio and podcasts, all free. Listen online or download the iHeart App.

Connect

© 2025 iHeartMedia, Inc.