TMZ Sports: The Interviews with Michael Babcock

40 Episodes
Subscribe

By: TMZ

TMZ SPORTS: THE INTERVIEWS WITH MICHAEL BABCOCK pulls back the curtain and gives an inside look at some of the most fascinating figures in sports. Michael Babcock of TMZ Sports sits down with some of the most interesting guests across the sports landscape and finds out what makes them great on the field and keeps them in the headlines off of it.

EXCLUSIVE: Braun Strowman Talks WWE, New Food Show, & Paul Heyman
Yesterday at 6:43 PM

Adam Scherr (AKA Braun Strowman) joins us to talk about his brand-new USA Network series “Everything on the Menu,” premiering Friday after SmackDown, and why this is the first time fans get to see Adam Scherr—the man behind Braun Strowman. The former WWE Universal Champion opens up about the neck injury that left him temporarily paralyzed, his surprising break from WWE, and the real story behind his viral Paul Heyman feud on X.

Braun laughs off rumors of beef with The Bloodline, calls Dominik Mysterio “made of chicken tenders,” and admits he used to bring his own steaks...


The Rock vs John Cena AGAIN!? Guenther Off The Table For Farewell Tour?
10/14/2025

Rock vs John Cena… AGAIN?! Fans are already saying “please don’t.” 😬
On this week’s TMZ Inside The Ring, Branson Quirke and Roger Corral dive into The Rock’s headline-making comments about Cena’s retirement match — and why wrestling fans are done with WWE’s nostalgia playbook. From Crown Jewel fallout to Trump possibly showing up at Cena’s final match, nothing’s off-limits.

We’re talking Rock’s booking influence, Cena’s farewell tour drama, Seth Rollins’ “injury,” and CM Punk’s fading heat — plus, the Hardys’ emotional TNA sendoff and Darby Allin’s wild podcast moment.

L...


Full Interview: Former Jets & Broncos Wide Receiver Eric Decker
10/10/2025

Eric Decker is defending New York Jets head coach Aaron Glenn despite his 0-5 start, telling TMZ Sports the team needs to be patient and give him time to build a winning culture. The former NFL star also offered advice to players dating celebrities, like Travis Kelce and Stefon Diggs, on balancing fame and focus, adding that his own high-profile marriage to Jessie James Decker was never a distraction during his career.


Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


Nic & Ryan Nemeth Join Us! The Most Controversial Brothers in TNA Speak Out
10/09/2025

Wrestling royalty joins TMZ’s Inside The Ring! Nic and Ryan Nemeth sit down to talk about their rivalry with the Hardy Boyz, the upcoming Bound For Glory event, and TNA’s explosive crossover with WWE. The brothers open up about tag-team dominance, Hollywood ambitions, and why they believe they’re the best brother duo in wrestling today.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


EXCLUSIVE Interview: Actor Paul Walter Hauser Prefers Wrestling Over Hollywood Acting
10/06/2025

Golden Globe & Emmy winner and lifelong wrestling fan Paul Walter Hauser joins TMZ’s Inside the Ring for a candid conversation about his passion for the squared circle and how it rivals his Hollywood success. Hauser opens up about training in the ring, balancing acting and wrestling, and the moment he realized he might love wrestling even more than film. Plus, he reveals his thoughts on the current state of WWE, AEW, and what’s next for MLW.

Hosts: Branson Quirke & Roger Corral

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: UFC's Merab Dvalishvili and Cory Sandhagen
10/03/2025

In this exclusive interview, UFC contenders Merab Dvalishvili and Cory Sandhagen discuss their strategies and mental preparations ahead of their high-stakes showdown.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


Exclusive Interview: Matt Riddle Running for Governor of Florida
10/02/2025

In this explosive sit-down, Matt Riddle reveals his shocking plans to run for Governor of Florida — and doesn’t hold back on anyone standing in his way. From blasting Brock Lesnar and Roman Reigns to exposing Jake Paul, Riddle unloads with raw honesty before things turn physical as he beats up the TMZ host during the interview. This is Riddle like you’ve never seen him before.


Hosts: Branson Quirke & Roger Corral

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


Exclusive Interview: Mark Henry Reveals Who John Cena's Final Opponent Should Be…
09/30/2025

Mark Henry joins us for a no-filter conversation on WWE, AEW, John Cena, Roman Reigns, The Bloodline, LA Knight, Randy Orton, Joe Hendry, Bad Bunny and the future of the business. The WWE Hall of Famer breaks down why LA Knight’s push stalled, who should retire John Cena, why Randy Orton needs to go full Viper again, and how AEW can finally catch up to WWE. Henry reacts to The Rock vs Roman Reigns, calls The Bloodline the greatest storyline ever, and explains why ticket prices and backstage culture are hurting wrestling fans. He even defends celebs like Ba...


EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: Washington Commanders Running Back Jacory Croskey-Merritt
09/25/2025

In this exclusive interview, NFL rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt shares his journey from a seventh-round draft pick to a rising star, discussing his playing style inspired by Alvin Kamara and his strong connection with quarterback Jayden Daniels. He also addresses his growing popularity in fantasy football and the intriguing story behind his nickname, "Bill."

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


Exclusive Interview: David Otunga on WWE Drama, Cena’s Goodbye & Marvel Roles
09/25/2025

In this exclusive sit-down, WWE veteran and Hollywood actor David Otunga opens up like never before — from behind-the-scenes drama with the Nexus and the truth about John Cena’s farewell tour, to how he landed his role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Otunga reflects on his journey from the ring to the big screen, sharing untold stories, surprising insights, and what’s still on his bucket list.


Hosts: Branson Quirke & Roger Corral

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


Exclusive Interview: MVP BLASTS WWE’s Corporate Greed, Praises AEW’s Grassroots
09/22/2025

Legend of the ring MVP joins TMZ’s Inside The Ring for an explosive conversation. Fresh off AEW All Out, he breaks down the Hurt Syndicate’s setback and makes it clear the battle isn’t over. MVP then blasts WWE’s corporate greed — calling out rising ticket prices, endless ads, and a profit-first mindset — while praising AEW’s grassroots approach and commitment to real fans. He also opens up on Bobby Lashley’s underappreciated legacy, his own 20+ year journey, and what’s next for the Syndicate.


Hosts: Branson Quirke & Roger Corral

Learn more ab...


EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: Terence 'Bud' Crawford
09/19/2025

In this exclusive interview, Terence Crawford reflects on his monumental victory over Canelo Alvarez, sharing insights into why, despite being the biggest fight of his career, it wasn't the most challenging. Crawford discusses his legacy, potential retirement, and his perspective on being one of the greatest fighters of his generation, 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


Exclusive Interview: Cassie Lee & Jessica McKay (FKA IIconics, Now IInspiration in TNA) Reveal Childhood Wrestling Crushes
09/18/2025

Cassie Lee & Jessica McKay — FKA The IIconics in WWE and now The IInspiration in TNA — sit down for an unfiltered, exclusive interview. From revealing their childhood wrestling crushes on The Rock and John Cena (yes, there was a cardboard cutout involved) to setting hard boundaries with fans at meet & greets, Cassie and Jess bring honesty, laughs, and plenty of spice.

They open up about life as mothers in wrestling, their promise to never split as a tag team, training with Shawn Spears & Tyler Breeze at Flatbacks, and how TNA gives them the freedom WWE never did. Plus: Vict...


Exclusive Interview: AEW Star Stokely Drops Secret Plan Against Adam Copeland
09/16/2025

AEW’s Stokely doesn’t hold back in this exclusive interview — from claiming he’s uncovered Adam Copeland’s medical secrets to vowing to end Adam & Christian Cage’s careers at AEW All Out. Stokely reveals his shocking plan to expose Copeland’s weaknesses, humiliate him in Toronto, and cement FTR as the greatest tag team alive today.


Hosts: Branson Quirke & Roger Corral


Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


Exclusive Interviews: Canelo Alvarez, Dana White and Shawn Porter!
09/12/2025

This week, we dive into the highly anticipated showdown between Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford, set to stream on Netflix. In THREE exclusive interviews, UFC President Dana White shares his excitement about promoting the fight, Canelo Alvarez discusses his preparation and mindset, and former champion Shawn Porter offers his expert analysis on what this clash means for boxing.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


Exclusive Interview: Former WWE Superstar Shotzi Blackheart On Karrion Kross, Wrestling With a Broken Arm, & Release
09/11/2025

Shotzi Blackheart opens up about her shocking return to the indies after WWE, the brutal feud with Matt Cardona, and why she says her release may have saved her career. Shotzi breaks down the chaos of GCW Homecoming, revealing how she brought in Scarlett and Karrion Kross — and admits she may have “created a monster” by unleashing Kross on Cardona. Hosts: Branson Quirke & Roger Corral

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


Exclusive Interview: Rob Van Dam Reveals Cena Farewell Tour Secret & Defends Matt Riddle
09/09/2025

In this Exclusive Interview, wrestling legend Rob Van Dam (RVD) sits down with TMZ’s Inside The Ring for a no-holds-barred conversation. RVD opens up about his public backing of Matt Riddle, explaining why he supports the controversial star and where he sees his future in wrestling. He also drops a bombshell reveal — Rob Van Dam was supposed to be part of John Cena’s Farewell Tour, and he tells us exactly how it all came together… and why it didn’t happen.


Hosts: Branson Quirke & Roger Corral


Learn mo...


Eric Ebron Analyzes UNC's Season Opener and Its Implications for the Team's Future
09/05/2025

This week, we explore the football realm with Eric Ebron, who offers his perspective on the University of North Carolina's challenging season opener and the future of its iconic coach, Bill Belichick. We also dive into the season outlook for quarterbacks Matthew Stafford and Daniel Jones, and their respective teams. 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


Exclusive Interview: Matt Riddle On Death Threats & UK Charity No-Show
09/03/2025

Matt Riddle sits down with TMZ’s Inside The Ring for an exclusive tell-all, breaking his silence on the UK charity event controversy. Riddle addresses the backlash, promoter drama, and even the death threats he says he’s received since the no-show headlines. In this unfiltered conversation, the King of Bros sets the record straight once and for all.


Hosts: Branson Quirke & Roger Corral

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


AJ Lee Is Returning To WWE! Clash In Paris Fallout
09/02/2025

AJ LEE RETURN?! WWE fans can’t stop talking about the possibility of AJ Lee making a comeback after WWE Clash in Paris 2025. Becky Lynch shocked the world by screwing CM Punk, helping Seth Rollins retain the World Heavyweight Championship, and sparking massive AJ chants that teased a Chicago SmackDown return. We break down every Clash in Paris result: Roman Reigns vs. Bronson Reed with Bron Breakker’s brutal attack, Rusev forcing Sheamus to tap in a wild No DQ Donnybrook, John Cena vs. Logan Paul with tributes to AJ Styles, Baron Corbin, Christopher Daniels, and more, the Wyatt Sick...


Syko Stu's Friend Douglas Malo Speaks Out After Intervening in the Shocking Wrestling Attack
08/29/2025

The wrestling world was shaken when Syko Stu was brutally attacked mid-event by Raja Jackson, but fellow wrestler Douglas Malo courageously intervened to stop the violence. In this exclusive interview, Malo shares his firsthand account of the incident, his reasons for stepping in, and an update on Syko Stu's health.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


Exclusive Interview: Cora Jade (Elayna Black) On Leaving Wrestling & Alexis Lete Claims
08/28/2025

In this exclusive TMZ Inside The Ring interview, Cora Jade (Elayna Black) breaks her silence for the first time since she stepped away from wrestling following her WWE release. She opens up about panic attacks, anxiety, and the mental health struggles that forced her to take a break, while making clear she is not retired. Cora also responds directly to Alexis Lete’s bullying allegations, calling them false and revealing she sent the video to her lawyer. Along the way, she talks about her friendships with Roxanne Perez, Bayley, Mandy Rose, CM Punk, her move into OnlyFans, and why sh...


Exclusive Interview: Ash By Elegance (FKA Dana Brooke) on Her Huge NXT Win
08/27/2025

TMZ’s Inside The Ring sits down for an exclusive interview with Ash By Elegance (formerly Dana Brooke) fresh off her historic win at NXT Heatwave, where she shocked the wrestling world by capturing the TNA Knockouts World Championship and bringing it back to TNA. Ash opens up about her emotional return to a WWE ring, the pressure of proving herself after her WWE release, and why this was the ultimate full-circle moment. She reflects on her transformation from Dana Brooke to Ash By Elegance, teases potential dream matches in NXT and TNA, and even fires back at stars li...


WBC Champ Shakur Stevenson Says Jake Paul Has No Chance Against Gervonta Davis
08/22/2025

Jake Paul vs. Gervonta Davis is officially happening — and WBC champ Shakur Stevenson is weighing in. In this exclusive interview, Shakur breaks down why Jake has no chance, and how Tank’s skills will dominate despite the size gap. He also opens up about his own next move, training with Terence Crawford, and the two names at the top of his wish list.


Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


Exclusive Interview: Jeff & Matt Hardy on Retirement, Hall of Fame & Dudleys Finale
08/21/2025

Jeff Hardy and Matt Hardy (The Hardy Boyz) join TMZ’s Inside The Ring to talk Bound for Glory, their final showdown with Team 3D/The Dudley Boyz, and whether a loss means it’s time to “ride off into the sunset” with TNA and WWE Hall of Fame inductions on the horizon. They also reveal they had no idea Bully Ray was coming out until the music hit (even D-Von didn’t know), tease WWE/TNA crossover surprises, and joke about turning TLC into “Tables, Ladders… and Couches.”


Hosts: Branson Quirke & Roger Corral

Lea...


Exclusive Interview: Raj Dhesi (FKA Jinder Mahal) Reveals What's Next
08/20/2025

Raj Dhesi, once known to millions as Jinder Mahal, finally tells his side of the story. We dive into WWE, AEW, and everything in between. You won’t believe what he reveals.


Hosts: Branson Quirke & Roger Corral


Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


Exclusive Interview: Tommy Invincible on WWE Future & Going Viral
08/18/2025

Tommy Invincible sits down for his biggest spotlight yet, opening up about his rise from indie sensation to wrestling’s next breakout star. He talks rivals, dream matches, and the grind of chasing greatness — plus whether WWE could be the next stop on his journey. With viral fame already building around his name, Tommy pulls no punches in this raw, unfiltered conversation that has fans convinced he’s about to take over the wrestling world.


Hosts: Branson Quirke & Alvin Rueda


Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcas...


EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: Dricus Du Plessis Calls Khamzat Chimaev Bout the Biggest Fight of His Career
08/17/2025

UFC Middleweight Champion Dricus Du Plessis gears up for the biggest fight of his career — a high-stakes clash with undefeated contender Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 319. In this exclusive interview, Du Plessis opens up about the immense pressure, the legacy-defining stakes, and his unwavering goal to become the greatest fighter of all time. Calling Chimaev “the best guy in the world without a title,” the champ promises a fight that will not only meet expectations — but surpass them.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: Inside Dana White’s $7.7 Billion Deal That Changes MMA Forever
08/17/2025

In this exclusive interview, UFC President Dana White breaks down a groundbreaking $7.7 billion media rights deal that will bring every UFC event to Paramount starting in 2026 — eliminating Pay-Per-View costs for U.S. fans. White also breaks down how the historic agreement came together and why it marks a major win for both fighters and the sport’s global audience.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


Exclusive Interview: Matt Riddle CALLS OUT CM Punk, Seth, Roman, Goldberg & Dana White
08/14/2025

Matt Riddle joins Inside The Ring for an unfiltered, no-holds-barred conversation — and nobody is safe. In this explosive exclusive interview, Riddle calls out CM Punk, Seth Rollins, Roman Reigns, Goldberg, and UFC boss Dana White, sharing behind-the-scenes stories, personal run-ins, and blunt opinions you won’t hear anywhere else. From WWE locker room drama to unforgettable clashes — and even hinting at a potential WWE return in the future — Riddle lays it all on the line in one of his most candid interviews yet.

Hosts: Branson Quirke & Alvin Rueda

Learn more about your ad choices...


Where is BROCK LESNAR? Shocks & Rumors from WWE & AEW
08/13/2025

This week on Inside The Ring, we’re breaking down the biggest moments and wildest rumors from WWE and AEW. From Brock Lesnar’s current status and the confirmed John Cena vs. Logan Paul showdown at Clash in Paris, to Seth Rollins’ latest power plays and Bayley’s emotional storyline shift, we’re covering every major headline. Plus, we dive into Karrion Kross’ WWE exit drama, Kyle Fletcher & Don Callis’ shocking reveal, and the insane Jon Moxley & Darby Allin “attempted murder” angle shaking up AEW. If you want full match fallout, backstage buzz, and next-event hype, this is the wrestling breakdow...


Jake Paul vs. Anthony Joshua?! Eddie Hearn Breaks Down Possibility
08/11/2025

Could Jake Paul really be Anthony Joshua’s next opponent? Promoter Eddie Hearn says there’s a “very good chance” the YouTuber-turned-boxer will face the former heavyweight champ in what could be one of the biggest pay-per-view events in boxing history. In this episode, we break down the shocking possibility and if Jake Paul actually stands a chance against Anthony Joshua.


Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


Brett Favre on Deion Sanders’ Cancer Battle, Rodgers in Pittsburgh, and the Packers’ Future
08/01/2025

Deion Sanders recently revealed his private battle with bladder cancer, and now, after successful surgery, he's officially cancer-free. In this interview, Brett Favre opens up about Deion’s resilience, their friendship, and what lies ahead for Coach Prime. Favre also shares his takes on Aaron Rodgers’ new chapter in Pittsburgh and why Jordan Love is ready to lead the Packers.


Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


Hulk Hogan: Our Final Interview
07/25/2025

Hulk Hogan, the wrestling legend who transformed the sport into a global phenomenon, has passed away at 71. More than a wrestler, Hogan was a cultural icon who inspired millions with his charisma, signature moves, and unforgettable catchphrases. From legendary battles to his role in creating the NWO, Hogan truly was the heart of professional wrestling. In this special update, we revisit the last time he sat down to chat with TMZ Sports.


Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


FULL INTERVIEW: Randy Moss Opens Up About His Cancer Battle and What It Means to Be Back
07/18/2025

Randy Moss returns to ESPN’s NFL Countdown after a fierce battle with a rare and aggressive cancer, opening up about the diagnosis, the support that lifted him, and the strength he found through it all. He reflects on being back with his crew, shares a few laughs, and even throws a playful jab at Rex Ryan. Moss also weighs in on Vikings star Justin Jefferson — and why he believes JJ could become the greatest receiver in franchise history.


Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


FULL INTERVIEW: Katie Taylor’s Final Message Before Facing Amanda Serrano
07/11/2025

In this exclusive interview, Katie Taylor — one of boxing’s most decorated champions — opens up ahead of her historic trilogy bout with Amanda Serrano. Headlining an all-women’s card at Madison Square Garden, streaming live on Netflix, Taylor talks legacy, pressure, and the drive to settle the controversy from their razor-close last fight. With history on the line, she’s ready for war.


Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


FULL INTERVIEW: Gilberto "Zurdo" Ramirez Says Jake Paul Fight Would Be ‘Easy Money'
07/08/2025

Jake Paul says he wants a title fight — and Gilberto "Zurdo" Ramirez is ready to give him one. In this interview, the WBA cruiserweight champ calls Jake “easy money,” breaks down how the fight would go, and responds to Paul’s trash talk. Zurdo also opens up about a potential rematch with Dmitry Bivol and what it’ll take to run it back with the only man who’s ever beaten him.


Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


FULL INTERVIEW: Ilia Topuria on Knocking Out Charles Oliveira and Calling Out Islam Makhachev
07/02/2025

Ilia Topuria joins us fresh off one of the most jaw-dropping knockouts of the year — a brutal first-round finish of Charles Oliveira at UFC 317. In this exclusive interview, Topuria breaks down the moment, shares why he believes Islam Makhachev is actively avoiding a fight with him, and doesn’t hold back on what would happen if he faced off against Paddy Pimblett. He also discusses his mission to become the UFC’s first-ever three-division champion and reacts to being named the pound-for-pound best fighter in the world.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/ad...


FULL INTERVIEW: Kyle Larson on Max Verstappen and Attempting "The Double" at the Indy 500 and Coca-Cola 600
06/23/2025

Kyle Larson opens up about his jaw-dropping attempt to run both the Indy 500 and Coca-Cola 600 on the same day — and what really went down behind the scenes. In this exclusive interview, Larson talks season goals, topping NASCAR’s merch charts, and the real deal with F1 champ Max Verstappen.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


FULL INTERVIEW: Riley Gaines on Trans Athletes in Women’s Sports and Simone Biles Feud
06/19/2025

Former NCAA swimmer Riley Gaines joins us to discuss her stance on transgender women competing in female sports divisions — a position that has placed her at the center of a national debate. She talks about her public disagreement with Simone Biles, whether collaboration is possible, and why this issue continues to divide the media and sports world. Riley also addresses speculation about entering politics and shares what she sees as the most practical solution moving forward.


Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices