EP. 6 – Mic Skills, Promo Prep & Earning Respect in Wrestling

Hosted by longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP) and Houston-based rapper & songwriter Dwayne Swayze, Marking Out takes you inside the world of professional wrestling like never before. In this episode, MVP reconnects with Gangrel at a Coastal Championship Wrestling anniversary show in South Florida. Originally slated for a one-on-one bout, their match shifts into a tag-team showdown after some overzealous newcomers interrupt—and get taught a lesson. MVP reflects on the moment and speaks candidly about preparing for a retirement tour.

He then breaks down what it takes to truly stand out as a young wrestler. From punctuality and presentation to professionalism and safety, MVP offers real-world advice drawn from his years in the business. He shares stories from his early indie days, training in Japan, and the importance of building a reputation for being dependable and coachable.

Dwayne opens up a conversation on promo work, prompting MVP to dive deep into the art of mic skills. MVP compares WWE’s script-heavy style to AEW’s looser approach, details the chemistry of trading lines with Ric Flair, and shares insights on working with talents like Randy Orton and MJF. He emphasizes how impactful promos can elevate a career more than any athletic move.

The episode wraps with a brief tease of a controversial TNA promo MVP cut live—one that stirred real conversation across the industry and will be explored more in future episodes.

—all with raw, unfiltered insight from one of the most respected veterans in the business.

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Enjoying the show? Houston rapper & songwriter Dwayne Swayze brings the same storytelling precision to his music. Experience his latest tracks on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3CFDVhx & Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/dwayne-swayze/1368365090. Follow for exclusive updates.

This episode is a must-listen for wrestling fans who want to go beyond WWE and AEW’s scripted world and hear firsthand from one of the industry’s most respected veterans.

About Marking Out with MVP and Dwayne Swayze:

Marking Out is a weekly wrestling podcast hosted by longtime friends Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP)—a professional wrestling veteran with over 20 years in the business—and Dwayne Swayze, a rapper with a deep love for the sport. Every Monday, MVP pulls back the curtain on pro wrestling, breaking down its history, behind-the-scenes moments, and the psychology that makes it all work. With firsthand experience in the ring, he shares unfiltered insight, legendary road stories, and deep dives into promos, match strategy, and the business behind the spectacle. No topic is off-limits. Subscribe for real talk, real stories, and a fresh perspective on the world of professional wrestling.