EP. 8 – Hurt Syndicate Theme, Indie Wrestling, & Locker Room Politics

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. This episode begins with the origin story behind the Hurt Syndicate's theme music. MVP breaks down how the track came together with Smoke DZA, Westside Gunn, and producer Cartune Beatz—from beat edits and recording sessions to that now-iconic “We Hurt People” hook. He reveals behind-the-scenes insights into how AEW licensed the track, what makes it hit with live crowds, and how the song became an underground anthem across arenas and indie shows.

From there, the conversation shifts into the differences between indie wrestling and working for major companies like AEW and WWE. MVP draws comparisons between small-stage hustle and big-league polish, highlighting the challenges indie wrestlers face when transitioning to televised work. He discusses how talent should adapt for the hard cam, build locker room equity, and embrace professionalism as a standard—not an exception.

MVP also shares stories from his early days working televised matches in Florida, his time learning from veterans like Steve Keirn and Dutch Mantell, and his experience adjusting to WWE’s production system under Vince McMahon. The episode closes with real talk about locker room dynamics, dressing room etiquette, and how company culture shapes what goes on behind the curtain. —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.

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.