True, I think the fact WWE doesn’t really show much behind the scenes makes this channel even better. I want to see the whole behind the scenes of how a show is put together. I want to see how they do rehearsals, walkthroughs, locker room prep, etc.
I like how maven can genuinely talk and tell his stories to us. Completely engaging and easy to listen too. Then the video ends when waiting and wanting to hear more.
I stopped watching wrestling in like 03-04 so I never watched Maven. I don’t watch it currently. I have no reason to care. But for some reason I have been watching all his videos 😂😂😂
The Irony of Maven’s career is that he probably wouldve had a legit shot in today’s WWE. There was just way too much talent at the time hall of famers were literally all over the card
Maven is the absolute GOAT wrestling youtuber right now. He's really letting us take a peek behind the scenes with amazing storytelling ability and editing that is absolutely on point (especially in the more recent videos). Greetings from a European fan who doesn't get to see much live WWE action and wanted to know what it's like for wrestlers!
The funniest one was sticking his hand down his pants then proceeded to strong arm and intimidate a new guy who just got hired in the wwe into shaking his hand
Man those old intro themes brought back the memories. I'm almost 37 and my midlife crisis is consuming all my favorite things from when I was young all over again lol.
Hey dude I'm 37 in September . Not a wrestling question for you but a psychological one. I've also got a mini midlife crisis going on. What are your biggest obstacles fears regrets etc and what do you plan to do going forward. Cheers 🍻
@@Marthisdil16 years ago. They asked if he wanted to try make a return as a wrestler in 2007. When he was still young and they meant as a worker. Plus he had only been fired from WWE a few years by then. That's completely different than asking him to return today when he's 16 years older in a speaking role.
This is exactly the type of content I'd want to see from a former WWE/F Competitor, and you're the only one doing it , Maven! Thanks for the content brother!
I’ve attended both Smackdown and Raw shows, as well as house shows, and yes, the environment is way different. I attended Smackdown back when there was also ECW and Superstars, all of which were taped on the same night, and included a few dark matches. So it was interesting to see the set changes, and even the refs/officials who helped change the sets. You could easily be there for 5-6 hours if you wanted to see all the shows.Raw on the other hand, definitely gives you that live on tv feeling when you are there. Even in the audience, you can tell how much on point they are with timing. You could even tell when they were going to commercial, because they were not wasting any tv lights for those breaks, and the wrestlers would slow down their action during the breaks as well.
Another awesome video, keep up the good work, and God bless you and your family. Btw the man who edit your videos is doing an awesome job as well. I pray from the bottom of my heart your channel hit 1 million soon as you guys deserve it.
Hahaha… I hope for the same!!! We will get there but only because of people like you. My partner and I have a blast doing this channel and it still blows my mind it has taken off. We will be doing another live at the end of the month. Hope your able to join so I can respond to you and thank you over video . You deserve to hear my gratitude
Each video I'm astonished at his ability to be such a good UA-camr. He could probably show others how it's done. The Conrad model doesn't work. All those podcasts, and most of them barely get any views. This is how it's done.
Every one of those shows start off decent, because the person is excited to tell their story. But when it reaches contractually obligated episode #204, The Brooklyn Brawler's 1994, or whatever, you can tell the talent is just miserable and nobody wants to be there. Conrad is the biggest fucking carny, dude can't even fit in a single plane seat he's grifting so hard.
@@GrantH Exactly. They're basically just a platform for him to advertise his mortgage business lol. Maven actually cares about the quality of content and he plays to the algorithm. He's in the UA-cam game for keeps.
The Conrad model works if done the right way. Jim Cornette, professional sounding audio, we aren’t looking at a fat, greasy, old James E and we don’t even have to think of what that weirdo Brian Last looks like, *and* both people actually have personalities that aren’t boring. Also Jim will never run out of wrestling stories meanwhile most of Conrad’s guests don’t even remember their middle name.
Wow Maven, you totally deserve to be racking up all the views you're getting! I actually stopped watching wrestling within the past year (first started watching in '99), but your content and presentation style is so damn engaging it's like I never did stop after all. You're a breath of fresh air for wrestling storytelling.
Maven was one of my favorites because it was awesome seeing tough enough, and then his career unfold. It's like the underdog, finally making it. Awesome seeing anyone achieve their dream or goal. Maven will always be an honest hardworking wrestler that truly represents the outcome of endurance and hardwork. Thank you So much Maven.⚘️
I just like hearing Maven talk about wrestling😂 Dude has a gift of making it seem like he's talking directly to a person, and not an audience. I believe Maven, because he is a fan like me, a fan like us. Keep it going Maven!
Maven is doing really well here and would be a wonderful addition with documentaries and backstage, behind the scenes producing just all of that quite knowledgeable and entertaining.
Question: Are storylines written week-to-week or does it start with an end in mind? I'm thinking of the Ministry of Darkness timeline and all the twists and turns in it. Big fan of your channel.
The best way is to write it for long term, but to review it weekly to take in consideration of fan response, injuries, new ideas, etc. It seems like too often it's written long term without allowing anything to change it or written short term without any long term direction. Seems like there's no middle ground.
I would think they have story boards and hopefully well thought out plan. For a weekly show I do t really see a benefit in writing weekly sounds more counter productive in my opinion
Both. But back in the 90s early 2000s it wasn’t like a soap opera. There were a few long running stories usually to promote a pay per view but it was just non stop action and chaos like in the attitude era. As time went on there’s a lot more dialog, writing, long term stories now compared to then.
I would like hear an answer from someone like Maven on this too. But from watching the UA-cam series ‘Reliving the War’ it seems like they do a bit of both. They see how the crowd reacts to certain things, but also stubbornly force storylines that they really want to see through.
We need a video of Maven watching the current product of boxing Raw and SmackDown (or just WWE in general) and giving his honest opinions about it. I think it would be great.
Maven, the effort you put in your videos always puts a smile on my face. Just the little details like the different colored lights used for the respective brands is such a beauitiful touch! We all love your videos man!
Damn Maven.... I remember watching you on your (televised) WWF debut. I remember randomly coming across your channel when you had, like 10K subs. So awesome to hear about what you've done in between and how things worked back then (pre-uber Internet era). Even better to see you making quality YT vids and rising up in the subs. Much deserved with all of the hard work you've done and continue to do. Cheers Maven.
Maven I gotta be honest you’re really doing great with your channel. Already you have people interested in your content because it’s your experience. Hope everything goes great for you in the future. Let’s get him to 1 million subs.
Gotta admit it, when I got back into wrestling in early 2003 after a hiatus since the end of 2000, I had no clue who Maven was, and I don’t remember him at all to be honest. However this guy is one amazing UA-camr and storyteller, it’s such a shame that as he admits, he didn’t put more effort in in the ring, and that if he had he could have showcased the charisma and wit that he has as a wrestler that wasn’t still riding the tough enough coattails. Very likeable fella and great videos. Well done Maven!
@CitizenAmuro yeah I know he was in wwf when I started watching again, but like I said, I don’t remember him. Most likely occasional short matches on raw or smack down and no major storylines to remember. Not a knock on him. Same way I don’t remember much of dean malenkos wwf run, his debut was memorable, but he was forgettable very soon after
@CitizenAmuro absolutely, he’s been a breath of fresh air when it comes to wrestling on UA-cam. It’s a shame they didn’t use his verbal skills more when he was there as he would have excelled as a heel. I’ve seen a bit of him as a heel with Simon dean which was good
You should do an episode about big bumps! Talk about what your's were like, how to prepare for them. Like do wrestlers practice spots before they happen? What was your biggest bump? LOVE THE CHANNEL DUDE! I havent even watched wrestling in over 20 years haha.
I wrestled for ten years myself, and I appreciated having you on TV showing it's ok to be green... With that said, I'm dying of CTE and early onset dementia from wrestling and all of the unprotected shots! I hope to God you got away without injuries like that, brother!
You guys need to chill with the CTE stuff. It's still fake. I can see injurys but let's not pretend your getting repeated blows to the head. That's football, boxing, etc. Hell even Nascar has more concessions.
Maven, it would be awesome to see you back in WWE, even for a limited time. Would love to see you as a heel in some way. You're super humble and still have a lot to offer. Love your videos.
OMG! I completely forgot that Smackdown was WWE's version of today's AEW Rampage (well, better than that), because it wasn't the LIVE flagship show. I love this channel. Maven is building a winner with this content.
Questions…who would you wrestle today? Which promotion you like to be in today AEW, WWE, new Japan, etc? How would you book yourself realistically either back then or today? How was your first WM experience??
Another fascinating and compelling video of pure insight from our articulate host, Mr Huffman. I'd love to see a future video about how house shows went, the crowd receptions, amusing moments, and stories in general about life on the road with the other wrestlers!
I dont think after watching the real maven ,i couldnt believe him if he had to get mad,or unfair ,or mean at times like a manager has to be . i think a commentator job would be perfect for him or if they did a new tough enough show ,i think he would be a great coach .
I was an attitude/agression era kid. Watched from the late 90s through mid 2000s but have fallen off since. I remember watching Tough enough and seeing you come up. These videos unlock so many core memories for me.
Mate I'm not being patronizing when I say I'm so proud of how well your channel is doing!! Next to Stevie Richards and Cornette you are the best wrestling content on UA-cam. Love you Mav, keep the videos coming mate 😊
I liked both shows equally as a kid, but nowadays I prefer SmackDown if I'm watching WWE. I even prefer SmackDown when watching the older episodes of WWE. I think SmackDown always had the better matches and more interesting stories. I think when RAW switched to a 3-hour format that's when the quality started dipping. RAW's gotten much better these days, but the 3-hour format in my opinion still effects the quality of RAW. In my opinion 2-Hour's is the sweet spot for weekly wrestling shows.
Best channel for the inside scoops for the WWE on how it was in that era Just love the transparity. Best host I've ever seen on UA-cam today. Have a bless day Maven looking forward to your next video.
TnA tappings were fun to go to, because I got to see those things Maven described for Smackdown. Some of the best stuff was seeing some of the wrestlers sitting in the rafters watching the matches. The Dudley Boyz would always add extra antics when their match was done but it wouldn't end up on television. Thanks Maven for bringing back good memories 👍
I’ve really enjoyed watching Maven’s short videos, I look at professional wrestling in a totally different way. These men and women are good storytellers, actors, athletes, and wrestling. They put all this together for a great show! Thanks Maven
Maven videos are so engaging from beginning to end... i just have to watch till the end every time As a wrestling fan am learning so much on this channel ...thank you Maven Lots of love from Nigeria 🇳🇬 ❤ Can't wait for the next video to drop 😊
@@LoganHunter82it's a shame that Vince seems to want to tank smackdown everytime it's doing better than raw. That's why both shows should stay separate
@@alaskanwhiskeyend of the day its a matter if opinion. I personally stopped watching it during 2008 I believe. The games went down hill since smack vs raw 2008 when they changed the controls. The current line up I can't get behind, they just ruined all of the titles.
Maven. you are the ONLY channel I have the bell notification on for because can't wait to hear and see what your doing. You are such a great guy. Much love brother.
These videos have been awesome, I've always wondered how things were run backstage, this is amazing insight for all the fans, keep up the great work guys! You all are killing it! Much appreciated.
@@ryanortiz8836 SmackDown! had a very brief period where they tried to push it more as the new show, but then it became the dumping ground after the invasion and brand split.
Honestly, I preferred watching Smackdown. Maybe it's because as a kid back then, I couldn't watch raw but i could watch Smackdown. Also, The Undertaker is my favorite.
I missed when Raw and smackdown had I their own ppv outside of the major ppv. It allows for storylines to build and survivor series had a greater meaning because it was for the pride of your show.
The presentation of this channel is top notch and you have a voice for this stuff. Would you be able to do a video where you compare stuff like this to today?
You’re killing it Maven! Impeccable my good sir. What a perfect fit: Maven & UA-cam. Great timing, great production and just the right amount of cheese. Question & answer format is what I mean by cheese. Well done.
I remember the good old days of getting the results for smackdown before it aired and still watching like I didn’t already know what was going to happen
These videos are awesome, I’m 46 now and I have LOVED wrestling since I was 6 or 7 years old. This is the stuff that fascinates me, about the business. Thanks for the awesome videos Maven.
If Maven wrestled today, he would be a top card guy. I really enjoy listening to his take on the business. I learn something new every time I watch. I remember when he first got to the big time i created his character on the Smackdown video game because it wasn’t there yet. lol
You are the coolest storyteller, Maven. I didn’t know anything about you until your recent UA-cam channel. I am glad Ive come across with this gem of a channel. Nothing but huge respect for you.
Im grateful I watched the first Tough Enough on mTV and seen you transition. You were an idol to kids like myself. You were one of my pics to win. I was cheering you on SD! waiting to see how you improved.
He is like the Richard Jefferson (NBA)of the WWE. Let’s us know how things are behind the scenes in their respective fields. Thank you for telling us your experiences, Maven! 🤝
Going forward, make podcast about raw and smack down. Discuss about epic matches and give us your views every week of raw and smackdown. 🔥keep it up. This channel is one of best for long term listening. Maven has a thing for story telling
Speaking of your time on RAW, my best friend and I still refer to you as "Tiger Woods" after Triple H joked "You want some of this too Tiger Woods?". We were both at that show in Des Moines the Monday after Cyber Tuesday/Taboo Sunday in October 2004.
Man, I cannot imagine how nervous you must’ve been when you did that general manager episode of RAW. You nailed it too. But just the thought of doing that live in front of that huge audience and live in front of a television audience, with every single one of your peers and everyone from the office backstage watching… and here I am getting nervous for a job interview 😂
Hey Mav, just gotta say and I’m sure you have many fans, BUT, goddam mate, never thought much past the undertaker rumble spot and the Stone Cold Simon Dean spot, but seriously binging your vids now and see you in a totally different way. Keep up the excellent work please sir. You have tapped into a fresh look into your old industry and I’m looking to do similar in my current industry. Thanks a bunch
SmackDown! at the time was just as good as Raw and they were distinctively different brands: Raw was like WCW in its prime: a live show which had more experienced/established/physically imposing wrestlers in the main event like HHH, Goldberg, Scott Steiner and The Rock. They even had the old style WCW belt. SmackDown! on the other hand was a bit like the WWF when it had to create new stars: it was taped and focused more on younger talent and/or established talent who were quite new to main evening (Brock/Eddie/Edge/Benoit/JBL). The Undertaker was an exception. Ratings were only better for Raw because it was always prioritised by Vince.
Smack down was the show on broadcast tv at the time too. I feel like they had to produce a show that held the audience a little better because of the exposure to so many casual fans.
Agreed - absolutely loved Smackdown 2002-2003 in particular. I personally bought right into the "pick a brand" thing they were selling and became a Smackdown fan, hated Raw and everything haha. They got me hook line and sinker
@@Simonskilamb It’s what Vince wanted; competition in wrestling but really he was only in competition with himself. He deliberately pitted Paul Hayman and Eric Bischoff as rival GMs due to their egos and history too! It would’ve been so good if Vince got a TV deal for WCW after he bought the company. You would’ve seen this on a bigger scale.
@@SRPC21 Vince should have never been allowed to buy WCW. Monopoly laws. I mean imagine being a star on WCW where they flew 1st class and rented limos, 5 star hotels, then Vince owns it and you're riding 4 deep in a Dodge Stratus and staying at the Holiday inn. Well if stacey Kiebler was in my car I would be fine.
Your channel is great. I remember watching you on Tough Enough years ago. Hearing your insight on your time there is entertaining every time you post a video. I hope you never run out of stories. Keep up the good work.
Man I love Maven's natural charisma and cadence of his speaking. He's so honest too, which is sooo nice in an industry with so many people trying to make themselves seem like a bigger deal than they were. Maven is Maven, and he doesn't exaggerate himself or his career. Such a cool dude
Ah cool, I was wondering why the t-shirts were being worn inside out - but finally appreciated the Smackdown and Raw symbolism as spelled out at the end. :) Nice vid Maven. :)
Sounds great but I highly doubt they would make a showcase for him since he maintained the mid card position. However I think he could be a narrator for a showcase. He's a good talker and has a good voice.
@@rn6312 On Smackdown back then you had Taker, Lesnar, Big Show and the Smackdown Six (Edge/Angle/Mysterio/Benoit/Los Guerreros). On Raw you had Triple H.... and whatever former WCW star he was burying at the time. Not much of a contest when it comes to interesting story lines.
Lol maven, I love how you just wore a blue/red shirt inside out. You can see the screen print through the shirt. Things like this make your channel work. You don't come across as a guy who thinks he's a superstar (which I know you've addressed) you just seem like a normal guy doing his thing. I appreciate that.
The last 10 years iv watched more WWE podcasts than content. With the exception of the Royal Rumble once a year. With Austin recycling old podcasts Maven’s UA-cam channel has been that weekly hit that’s more interesting and more entertaining than anything else. Maven 4 the Rumble!
I've noticed that Maven on his YT has LOADS of CHRISMA! I never thought that when he was on tv. He'd be a MAIN ACT in this day and age. Keep it up Mav!
Hi maven! I don't know if you read your comments, but if you do, I hope you can answer this question. If you start a storyline that has longevity, does the agent change for that story? Are there agents for just a one-time match as opposed to long stories? Is there a difference between an agent and a creative writer? What kind of background or education do you have to have to become an agent or writer? Thanks maven
I think i might be able to answer a fair chunk of this (but people feel free to chime in if i miss or mix something up) To start with an Agent is someone who helps you plan out a match (typically a former wrestler), where as a creative writer is someone who comes up with the storylines primarily but also occasionally gimmick changes as well. From what Maven has said in previous videos Agents are typically assigned on the night when they go through the run sheet.. ie you are wrestling X and Y will be your agent. I suspect if good chemistry is shown you might have the same agent for multiple shows other times you might have someone else ie orginal agent not available or if the storyline has you in a particular match type they might assign someone with more experience of it. As for background, Agent, typically alot of match experience, understanding ring psychology, match pacing, how to help your wrestlers make their styles gel in order to tell the story you want in the ring. Writers, knowing how to write to engage your audience, how to write a hook to bring them in but also how to be compelling to keep them, understanding the wrestlers strengths and weaknesses how you can use them to progress the story. similar to the agent, psychology can help ie the whys and whats that lead to match ie is there a conflict between sides or opponents that respect each other and just want to see who is the better man. Also being able to understand what you want the story to achieve such as building a new star or cementing the legacy of someone already established theres a whole bunch of other stuff but this is already gotten longer than i thought it would, but i hope you can take something from it.
This is easily the BEST channel that pulls the curtain back on wrestling. Great job Mave
Playing the Smackdown intro super props
It really is.
100% agree with you
Stevie Richards?
True, I think the fact WWE doesn’t really show much behind the scenes makes this channel even better. I want to see the whole behind the scenes of how a show is put together. I want to see how they do rehearsals, walkthroughs, locker room prep, etc.
I like how maven can genuinely talk and tell his stories to us. Completely engaging and easy to listen too. Then the video ends when waiting and wanting to hear more.
That's normally how shows work, yep.
@@SoCalChris yep and he's good at it.
@user-ft6so2ff4ci don’t think he makes as much money from this as you think 😂
I stopped watching wrestling in like 03-04 so I never watched Maven. I don’t watch it currently. I have no reason to care. But for some reason I have been watching all his videos 😂😂😂
@@SoCalChris😂😂
The Irony of Maven’s career is that he probably wouldve had a legit shot in today’s WWE. There was just way too much talent at the time hall of famers were literally all over the card
Him and 100 other guys. Same could be said about guys today who would have shined 20 years ago
Agreed he would have done well in nxt
From what I gathered from everything he's said on this channel he had a legit shot back then but just didn't put the work in
If you can't shine today, you definitely wouldn't be able to shine back then.
Exactly, the competition back then was massive until at least 2008 . If he started again in 2007 he might of had a pretty good mid card run
Maven is the absolute GOAT wrestling youtuber right now. He's really letting us take a peek behind the scenes with amazing storytelling ability and editing that is absolutely on point (especially in the more recent videos). Greetings from a European fan who doesn't get to see much live WWE action and wanted to know what it's like for wrestlers!
Plus he handsome and talks smooth. Bet the bishes ask him to constantly talk while he slams em, I can’t with this pimp
Man we just throw that term goat around way too easily
All time right now. FFS.
Takers UA-cam is really entertaining, too.
I'm diggin his Mount Rushmore series!
@@highroller4203holy shot dude 😂😂😂😂
Randy's stories always range from the unhinged insane to down to earth humble, a true one of the GOATs.
The funniest one was sticking his hand down his pants then proceeded to strong arm and intimidate a new guy who just got hired in the wwe into shaking his hand
Man those old intro themes brought back the memories. I'm almost 37 and my midlife crisis is consuming all my favorite things from when I was young all over again lol.
Hey dude I'm 37 in September . Not a wrestling question for you but a psychological one. I've also got a mini midlife crisis going on. What are your biggest obstacles fears regrets etc and what do you plan to do going forward.
Cheers 🍻
Definitely the best UA-cam channel ! Maven, for you to only spend 3-4 years in WWE , you got decades worth of stories. WWE needs to hire you
They wanted to. He said no.
@@Tempestelterna did he say that in one of these videos ? If so, I don’t remember
@Lante216 yeah he had a chance to come back. He mentioned it. It was right when he started the HSN job. Johnny Ace asked if he wanted to come back
WWE tried to hire him back and he turned em down :)
@@Marthisdil16 years ago. They asked if he wanted to try make a return as a wrestler in 2007. When he was still young and they meant as a worker. Plus he had only been fired from WWE a few years by then. That's completely different than asking him to return today when he's 16 years older in a speaking role.
This is exactly the type of content I'd want to see from a former WWE/F Competitor, and you're the only one doing it , Maven! Thanks for the content brother!
WWE needs to hire Maven for some backstage position at least
Agreed! My personal wish list has Maven as on-air talent as a heel manager. IMO he could pull that off effortlessly.
@@DoctorJohnSmith9ehh I think he’d excel in commentary
Yes whatever Nick Aldis’ position is right now is what maven should be doing fr
Either commentary, backstage interviewer/reporter, or a manager. I'd like to see him in any of those positions today on Raw or Smackdown.
As long as The Rock puts him over
I’ve attended both Smackdown and Raw shows, as well as house shows, and yes, the environment is way different. I attended Smackdown back when there was also ECW and Superstars, all of which were taped on the same night, and included a few dark matches. So it was interesting to see the set changes, and even the refs/officials who helped change the sets. You could easily be there for 5-6 hours if you wanted to see all the shows.Raw on the other hand, definitely gives you that live on tv feeling when you are there. Even in the audience, you can tell how much on point they are with timing. You could even tell when they were going to commercial, because they were not wasting any tv lights for those breaks, and the wrestlers would slow down their action during the breaks as well.
Love the change in shirt and lighting for each brand. Little details like this are nice touches
I'm loving seeing this channel growing. What a great alternative to the same old shoot interviews other channels push. Thanks for coming back maven.
Another awesome video, keep up the good work, and God bless you and your family. Btw the man who edit your videos is doing an awesome job as well. I pray from the bottom of my heart your channel hit 1 million soon as you guys deserve it.
Hahaha… I hope for the same!!! We will get there but only because of people like you. My partner and I have a blast doing this channel and it still blows my mind it has taken off. We will be doing another live at the end of the month. Hope your able to join so I can respond to you and thank you over video . You deserve to hear my gratitude
@@MavenKHuffmanwhat happen if u show up late for your match
i'd love for Maven to have a spot in next years Royal Rumble. that would be amazing.
I think he said in one video that he doesnt wanna take bumps anymore
Each video I'm astonished at his ability to be such a good UA-camr. He could probably show others how it's done. The Conrad model doesn't work. All those podcasts, and most of them barely get any views. This is how it's done.
The Conrad model could work if it was higher-budget. Most people don’t want to sit through what are basically just Zoom calls.
Every one of those shows start off decent, because the person is excited to tell their story. But when it reaches contractually obligated episode #204, The Brooklyn Brawler's 1994, or whatever, you can tell the talent is just miserable and nobody wants to be there.
Conrad is the biggest fucking carny, dude can't even fit in a single plane seat he's grifting so hard.
@@GrantH Exactly. They're basically just a platform for him to advertise his mortgage business lol. Maven actually cares about the quality of content and he plays to the algorithm. He's in the UA-cam game for keeps.
The Conrad model works if done the right way. Jim Cornette, professional sounding audio, we aren’t looking at a fat, greasy, old James E and we don’t even have to think of what that weirdo Brian Last looks like, *and* both people actually have personalities that aren’t boring. Also Jim will never run out of wrestling stories meanwhile most of Conrad’s guests don’t even remember their middle name.
Probably massively helps that Maven is a former pro wrestler too..
Wow Maven, you totally deserve to be racking up all the views you're getting! I actually stopped watching wrestling within the past year (first started watching in '99), but your content and presentation style is so damn engaging it's like I never did stop after all. You're a breath of fresh air for wrestling storytelling.
Maven I am LOVING this channel! I'll never forget watching you perform, even as an up-and-coming mid-carder. Keep the content coming!
0:49 Omggg that theme just gave me goosebumps 😭🔥🔥🔥
Kudos Maven for continuously pumping out quality content. I hope you're able to keep it going for as long as possible. I'll be watching.
Maven was one of my favorites because it was awesome seeing tough enough, and then his career unfold. It's like the underdog, finally making it. Awesome seeing anyone achieve their dream or goal. Maven will always be an honest hardworking wrestler that truly represents the outcome of endurance and hardwork. Thank you So much Maven.⚘️
please stop and talk about the video, kid
I just like hearing Maven talk about wrestling😂 Dude has a gift of making it seem like he's talking directly to a person, and not an audience. I believe Maven, because he is a fan like me, a fan like us. Keep it going Maven!
Maven, your channel has seriously evolved into something amazing. So happy for you man.
I wasnt a Maven fan originally but this channel has turned me into one.
Great videos Maven! Thank you!
💯
Maven is doing really well here and would be a wonderful addition with documentaries and backstage, behind the scenes producing just all of that quite knowledgeable and entertaining.
Question: Are storylines written week-to-week or does it start with an end in mind? I'm thinking of the Ministry of Darkness timeline and all the twists and turns in it. Big fan of your channel.
The best way is to write it for long term, but to review it weekly to take in consideration of fan response, injuries, new ideas, etc. It seems like too often it's written long term without allowing anything to change it or written short term without any long term direction. Seems like there's no middle ground.
I would think they have story boards and hopefully well thought out plan. For a weekly show I do t really see a benefit in writing weekly sounds more counter productive in my opinion
@@OnePunchLionthe best way is maven responds, mark
Both. But back in the 90s early 2000s it wasn’t like a soap opera. There were a few long running stories usually to promote a pay per view but it was just non stop action and chaos like in the attitude era. As time went on there’s a lot more dialog, writing, long term stories now compared to then.
I would like hear an answer from someone like Maven on this too.
But from watching the UA-cam series ‘Reliving the War’ it seems like they do a bit of both. They see how the crowd reacts to certain things, but also stubbornly force storylines that they really want to see through.
Been loving your channel Maven, honest, eye opening and no nasty digs at fellow wrestlers ! Keep the vids coming 🏴👍🏻.
We need a video of Maven watching the current product of boxing Raw and SmackDown (or just WWE in general) and giving his honest opinions about it. I think it would be great.
agree 💯👍
Agree,
That's what Stevie Richard's channel is for 😅
Stevens Richard has guts people would just criticize him all day I saw the nia jax commentary before
Disagree. As a fan who like Maven, doesn't watch the current product, I like this.
Maven, the effort you put in your videos always puts a smile on my face. Just the little details like the different colored lights used for the respective brands is such a beauitiful touch!
We all love your videos man!
This is definitely one of the most informative Wrestling channels. Good job Maven
Damn Maven....
I remember watching you on your (televised) WWF debut.
I remember randomly coming across your channel when you had, like 10K subs.
So awesome to hear about what you've done in between and how things worked back then (pre-uber Internet era).
Even better to see you making quality YT vids and rising up in the subs.
Much deserved with all of the hard work you've done and continue to do.
Cheers Maven.
Raw was red,smackdown was blue, surely velocity was where the green was at?
Booooo
@@LG215xWhy are you booing him? He's right
You are correct
loool; the guys on Velocity got paid the least
Big money Velocity bubba.
Maven I gotta be honest you’re really doing great with your channel. Already you have people interested in your content because it’s your experience. Hope everything goes great for you in the future. Let’s get him to 1 million subs.
He’s probably gonna end up making more money on UA-cam than in wwe
@@Vinnygetbuckets everyone does
Gotta admit it, when I got back into wrestling in early 2003 after a hiatus since the end of 2000, I had no clue who Maven was, and I don’t remember him at all to be honest. However this guy is one amazing UA-camr and storyteller, it’s such a shame that as he admits, he didn’t put more effort in in the ring, and that if he had he could have showcased the charisma and wit that he has as a wrestler that wasn’t still riding the tough enough coattails. Very likeable fella and great videos.
Well done Maven!
All I knew was that he was the guy with the drawn on eyebrows
How u miss out on maven he eliminated undertaker
@@davonwoods9510 I literally said I got back into wrestling in 2003 having not watched it since before tough enough even aired.
@CitizenAmuro yeah I know he was in wwf when I started watching again, but like I said, I don’t remember him. Most likely occasional short matches on raw or smack down and no major storylines to remember. Not a knock on him. Same way I don’t remember much of dean malenkos wwf run, his debut was memorable, but he was forgettable very soon after
@CitizenAmuro absolutely, he’s been a breath of fresh air when it comes to wrestling on UA-cam. It’s a shame they didn’t use his verbal skills more when he was there as he would have excelled as a heel. I’ve seen a bit of him as a heel with Simon dean which was good
I work with Maven fairly regularly. Man is great on the mic and would be an excellent mouthpiece today in wwe.
You should do an episode about big bumps! Talk about what your's were like, how to prepare for them. Like do wrestlers practice spots before they happen? What was your biggest bump? LOVE THE CHANNEL DUDE! I havent even watched wrestling in over 20 years haha.
I wrestled for ten years myself, and I appreciated having you on TV showing it's ok to be green... With that said, I'm dying of CTE and early onset dementia from wrestling and all of the unprotected shots! I hope to God you got away without injuries like that, brother!
Damn hope you straight lil bra dat cte aint no joke
Wrestle as in pro wrestling wwe or wrestling, the sport?
You guys need to chill with the CTE stuff. It's still fake. I can see injurys but let's not pretend your getting repeated blows to the head. That's football, boxing, etc. Hell even Nascar has more concessions.
definitely not on that chris benoit level
@@Drippppppppp so you are saying that chris benoit never had cte?
Maven, it would be awesome to see you back in WWE, even for a limited time. Would love to see you as a heel in some way. You're super humble and still have a lot to offer. Love your videos.
I love that you added the intros. Those were 2 of my favorite ever.
OMG! I completely forgot that Smackdown was WWE's version of today's AEW Rampage (well, better than that), because it wasn't the LIVE flagship show. I love this channel. Maven is building a winner with this content.
More graphics please! The schedule graphic was great. Keep up the great work.
Questions…who would you wrestle today? Which promotion you like to be in today AEW, WWE, new Japan, etc? How would you book yourself realistically either back then or today? How was your first WM experience??
The old school Beautiful People SD & Across The Nation Raw edits were a perfect touch. You woke up my inner 6 -14 year old self w/ that nostalgia.
Another fascinating and compelling video of pure insight from our articulate host, Mr Huffman. I'd love to see a future video about how house shows went, the crowd receptions, amusing moments, and stories in general about life on the road with the other wrestlers!
Your channel brings me nostalgia. Thanks for all my childhood memories man!
I kind of want Maven to come back as a general Manager.
If Regal doesn't come back on-screen, they should hire Maven for NXT!
@vpg8000 Maven could be great to help new guys
I dont think after watching the real maven ,i couldnt believe him if he had to get mad,or unfair ,or mean at times like a manager has to be . i think a commentator job would be perfect for him or if they did a new tough enough show ,i think he would be a great coach .
I want him as a commentary
I was an attitude/agression era kid. Watched from the late 90s through mid 2000s but have fallen off since. I remember watching Tough enough and seeing you come up. These videos unlock so many core memories for me.
Mate I'm not being patronizing when I say I'm so proud of how well your channel is doing!!
Next to Stevie Richards and Cornette you are the best wrestling content on UA-cam.
Love you Mav, keep the videos coming mate 😊
Why would that be patronising
Jim cornette used to be great but now all he does is talking trash about other wrestlers just to hate
RAW is 3 hours. Smack Down is 2. So obviously RAW made more money therefore paid more.
Raw didn’t go three hours till years later
Raw became 3 hours in 2012
I could watch this guy's videos every day and not get bored.
I liked both shows equally as a kid, but nowadays I prefer SmackDown if I'm watching WWE. I even prefer SmackDown when watching the older episodes of WWE. I think SmackDown always had the better matches and more interesting stories. I think when RAW switched to a 3-hour format that's when the quality started dipping. RAW's gotten much better these days, but the 3-hour format in my opinion still effects the quality of RAW. In my opinion 2-Hour's is the sweet spot for weekly wrestling shows.
Best channel for the inside scoops for the WWE on how it was in that era Just love the transparity. Best host I've ever seen on UA-cam today. Have a bless day Maven looking forward to your next video.
this channel is very educational for a wrestling fans and soon to be fans. keep it up Maven
TnA tappings were fun to go to, because I got to see those things Maven described for Smackdown. Some of the best stuff was seeing some of the wrestlers sitting in the rafters watching the matches. The Dudley Boyz would always add extra antics when their match was done but it wouldn't end up on television. Thanks Maven for bringing back good memories 👍
I’ve really enjoyed watching Maven’s short videos, I look at professional wrestling in a totally different way. These men and women are good storytellers, actors, athletes, and wrestling. They put all this together for a great show!
Thanks Maven
Its A Good Day Whenever Maven Uploads👌
Maven videos are so engaging from beginning to end... i just have to watch till the end every time
As a wrestling fan am learning so much on this channel ...thank you Maven
Lots of love from Nigeria 🇳🇬 ❤
Can't wait for the next video to drop 😊
For me smack down had the best wrestlers during 2005-2007
Smackdown during that era was a million miles better show than RAW
Nah I'd say 2005-2011. After that it went downhill. Same with raw.
@@LoganHunter82it's a shame that Vince seems to want to tank smackdown everytime it's doing better than raw. That's why both shows should stay separate
@@alaskanwhiskeyend of the day its a matter if opinion. I personally stopped watching it during 2008 I believe. The games went down hill since smack vs raw 2008 when they changed the controls. The current line up I can't get behind, they just ruined all of the titles.
My god, this channel is so addictive. I think Maven sure will become a UA-cam king.
Maven. you are the ONLY channel I have the bell notification on for because can't wait to hear and see what your doing. You are such a great guy. Much love brother.
These videos have been awesome, I've always wondered how things were run backstage, this is amazing insight for all the fans, keep up the great work guys! You all are killing it! Much appreciated.
I imagine it depends more on position on the card, but RAW has clearly been flagship for about 20 years.
20 LOL TRY 30YRS SINCE 1993
@@ryanortiz8836it’s been the flagship show for the last 3 years despite smackdown making more money and higher ratings?
@@ryanortiz8836 SmackDown! had a very brief period where they tried to push it more as the new show, but then it became the dumping ground after the invasion and brand split.
Honestly, I preferred watching Smackdown. Maybe it's because as a kid back then, I couldn't watch raw but i could watch Smackdown. Also, The Undertaker is my favorite.
This has become one of my favorite channels. Every video is so well thought out & presented. Thank you & please keep up the quality content! 👍
Hey maven, love the content. Watched your career from the start of tough enough. Happy to see you still doing your thing!
I missed when Raw and smackdown had I their own ppv outside of the major ppv. It allows for storylines to build and survivor series had a greater meaning because it was for the pride of your show.
The presentation of this channel is top notch and you have a voice for this stuff. Would you be able to do a video where you compare stuff like this to today?
You’re killing it Maven! Impeccable my good sir. What a perfect fit: Maven & UA-cam. Great timing, great production and just the right amount of cheese. Question & answer format is what I mean by cheese. Well done.
I remember the good old days of getting the results for smackdown before it aired and still watching like I didn’t already know what was going to happen
These videos are awesome, I’m 46 now and I have LOVED wrestling since I was 6 or 7 years old. This is the stuff that fascinates me, about the business. Thanks for the awesome videos Maven.
Thank you Maven for giving us great content and an honest view of professional wrestling.
If Maven wrestled today, he would be a top card guy. I really enjoy listening to his take on the business. I learn something new every time I watch. I remember when he first got to the big time i created his character on the Smackdown video game because it wasn’t there yet. lol
You are the coolest storyteller, Maven. I didn’t know anything about you until your recent UA-cam channel. I am glad Ive come across with this gem of a channel. Nothing but huge respect for you.
Im grateful I watched the first Tough Enough on mTV and seen you transition. You were an idol to kids like myself. You were one of my pics to win. I was cheering you on SD! waiting to see how you improved.
nice to see you man i remember seeing you when i was a kid i love that you give a new perspective to how it was in wwe
I love your transparency. Your honesty, and openness are very refreshing. Keep em comin
He is like the Richard Jefferson (NBA)of the WWE. Let’s us know how things are behind the scenes in their respective fields. Thank you for telling us your experiences, Maven! 🤝
Going forward, make podcast about raw and smack down. Discuss about epic matches and give us your views every week of raw and smackdown. 🔥keep it up. This channel is one of best for long term listening. Maven has a thing for story telling
Speaking of your time on RAW, my best friend and I still refer to you as "Tiger Woods" after Triple H joked "You want some of this too Tiger Woods?".
We were both at that show in Des Moines the Monday after Cyber Tuesday/Taboo Sunday in October 2004.
Maven you have a great voice and knowledge of wrestling. WWE needs to hire you as a commentator for the shows. Hire him Vince !
Mavens UA-cam channel is probably the best incite into the wrestling business. I legit love this shit. Is your shirt inside out?
Doesn't want to advertise the brand I imagine. Smart move.
Man, I cannot imagine how nervous you must’ve been when you did that general manager episode of RAW. You nailed it too. But just the thought of doing that live in front of that huge audience and live in front of a television audience, with every single one of your peers and everyone from the office backstage watching… and here I am getting nervous for a job interview 😂
I have a question Mr.Maven , 1:25 Is it true Triple H didn't wanna work Tuesday's????? Love the channel bro.
Hey Mav, just gotta say and I’m sure you have many fans, BUT, goddam mate, never thought much past the undertaker rumble spot and the Stone Cold Simon Dean spot, but seriously binging your vids now and see you in a totally different way. Keep up the excellent work please sir. You have tapped into a fresh look into your old industry and I’m looking to do similar in my current industry. Thanks a bunch
SmackDown! at the time was just as good as Raw and they were distinctively different brands:
Raw was like WCW in its prime: a live show which had more experienced/established/physically imposing wrestlers in the main event like HHH, Goldberg, Scott Steiner and The Rock. They even had the old style WCW belt.
SmackDown! on the other hand was a bit like the WWF when it had to create new stars: it was taped and focused more on younger talent and/or established talent who were quite new to main evening (Brock/Eddie/Edge/Benoit/JBL). The Undertaker was an exception.
Ratings were only better for Raw because it was always prioritised by Vince.
Smack down was the show on broadcast tv at the time too. I feel like they had to produce a show that held the audience a little better because of the exposure to so many casual fans.
Agreed - absolutely loved Smackdown 2002-2003 in particular. I personally bought right into the "pick a brand" thing they were selling and became a Smackdown fan, hated Raw and everything haha. They got me hook line and sinker
@@Simonskilamb It’s what Vince wanted; competition in wrestling but really he was only in competition with himself.
He deliberately pitted Paul Hayman and Eric Bischoff as rival GMs due to their egos and history too!
It would’ve been so good if Vince got a TV deal for WCW after he bought the company. You would’ve seen this on a bigger scale.
L
@@SRPC21 Vince should have never been allowed to buy WCW. Monopoly laws. I mean imagine being a star on WCW where they flew 1st class and rented limos, 5 star hotels, then Vince owns it and you're riding 4 deep in a Dodge Stratus and staying at the Holiday inn. Well if stacey Kiebler was in my car I would be fine.
Your channel is great. I remember watching you on Tough Enough years ago. Hearing your insight on your time there is entertaining every time you post a video.
I hope you never run out of stories. Keep up the good work.
How did everyone handle the brand exclusive ppvs? Seems like it opened up more opportunities to be on the card, but longer gaps for big paydays.
Man I love Maven's natural charisma and cadence of his speaking. He's so honest too, which is sooo nice in an industry with so many people trying to make themselves seem like a bigger deal than they were. Maven is Maven, and he doesn't exaggerate himself or his career. Such a cool dude
This guy doesn't look like aged a day in 20 years. Good for Maven 👍.
Ah cool, I was wondering why the t-shirts were being worn inside out - but finally appreciated the Smackdown and Raw symbolism as spelled out at the end. :) Nice vid Maven. :)
lol.. the sudden change of shirt caught me off guard. Maven doesnt fail to surprise me every week 😂
I love this guys honesty. Says it like it is no sugar coating. One of the reasons he made it to WWE.
The next WWE game really should have a maven showcase in it showing your career. I’d buy that
Sounds great but I highly doubt they would make a showcase for him since he maintained the mid card position.
However I think he could be a narrator for a showcase. He's a good talker and has a good voice.
Did we all click on this knowing it was going to be raw? 0:01
Not surprised that smackdown was more calmer than raw
And just like today, Smackdown was better than Raw.
@@rn6312 On Smackdown back then you had Taker, Lesnar, Big Show and the Smackdown Six (Edge/Angle/Mysterio/Benoit/Los Guerreros). On Raw you had Triple H.... and whatever former WCW star he was burying at the time. Not much of a contest when it comes to interesting story lines.
@@gregquinn642 HBK was by far the best part of Raw.
It is funny how SD has always been more entertaining.
@@SandowMovesets No Raw was always better until about 2003
1:49
perfect flying cross body...absolutely perfect
Lol maven, I love how you just wore a blue/red shirt inside out. You can see the screen print through the shirt.
Things like this make your channel work. You don't come across as a guy who thinks he's a superstar (which I know you've addressed) you just seem like a normal guy doing his thing. I appreciate that.
I would love to see Maven back in WWE in some capacity. Either way, this is by far my favorite wrestling channel. Keep it up Maven
The last 10 years iv watched more WWE podcasts than content. With the exception of the Royal Rumble once a year. With Austin recycling old podcasts Maven’s UA-cam channel has been that weekly hit that’s more interesting and more entertaining than anything else. Maven 4 the Rumble!
I've noticed that Maven on his YT has LOADS of CHRISMA!
I never thought that when he was on tv. He'd be a MAIN ACT in this day and age. Keep it up Mav!
Hi maven! I don't know if you read your comments, but if you do, I hope you can answer this question. If you start a storyline that has longevity, does the agent change for that story? Are there agents for just a one-time match as opposed to long stories? Is there a difference between an agent and a creative writer? What kind of background or education do you have to have to become an agent or writer? Thanks maven
I think i might be able to answer a fair chunk of this (but people feel free to chime in if i miss or mix something up)
To start with an Agent is someone who helps you plan out a match (typically a former wrestler), where as a creative writer is someone who comes up with the storylines primarily but also occasionally gimmick changes as well.
From what Maven has said in previous videos Agents are typically assigned on the night when they go through the run sheet.. ie you are wrestling X and Y will be your agent. I suspect if good chemistry is shown you might have the same agent for multiple shows other times you might have someone else ie orginal agent not available or if the storyline has you in a particular match type they might assign someone with more experience of it.
As for background, Agent, typically alot of match experience, understanding ring psychology, match pacing, how to help your wrestlers make their styles gel in order to tell the story you want in the ring.
Writers, knowing how to write to engage your audience, how to write a hook to bring them in but also how to be compelling to keep them, understanding the wrestlers strengths and weaknesses how you can use them to progress the story. similar to the agent, psychology can help ie the whys and whats that lead to match ie is there a conflict between sides or opponents that respect each other and just want to see who is the better man. Also being able to understand what you want the story to achieve such as building a new star or cementing the legacy of someone already established
theres a whole bunch of other stuff but this is already gotten longer than i thought it would, but i hope you can take something from it.
Great vid. Got those great nostalgia vibes hearing in those old Smack down and raw songs play