In the past year, few WWE media projects have ignited as much debate as the evolution of Six Feet Under with Mark Calaway, better known to fans as The Undertaker’s official podcast. Amidst sweeping changes, the show has been rocked by the sudden exit of co-host Matt Lyda, the introduction of Michelle McCool as co-host, and a vocal outcry from the WWE Universe. Now, former WWE Superstar Maven Huffman has weighed in, offering a candid and nuanced perspective on the controversy that has put one of wrestling’s most iconic figures under the microscope.
The Podcast’s Dramatic Shift: From Underground Hit to Corporate Production
Six Feet Under originally captured fans’ imaginations with its unfiltered, behind-the-scenes conversations between The Undertaker and Matt Lyda, a longtime friend and creative partner. Their chemistry and willingness to discuss taboo topics gave the podcast a raw, authentic appeal. However, that changed abruptly in March 2025 when the show went on hiatus. When it resurfaced under the official WWE banner in June, Matt Lyda was gone, replaced by The Undertaker’s wife, WWE Hall of Famer Michelle McCool[1].
The timing was notable: McCool’s promotion to co-host paralleled her induction into the WWE Hall of Fame and her appointment as a judge on the WWE reality show LFG, replacing Mickie James. Fans quickly accused WWE of nepotism and criticized the podcast for losing its edge in favor of a more sanitized, corporate presentation[1][3].
Fan Backlash and Undertaker’s Defiant Response
The backlash grew as loyal listeners took to social media, lamenting the loss of Lyda and the show’s new direction. Many accused WWE of “corporatizing” what had once been a freewheeling look behind the curtain, and some directed hostility towards McCool, questioning the legitimacy of her new role[2][3].
The controversy peaked when The Undertaker himself addressed critics on the show, declaring that “99.5% of the guys” in the WWE locker room supported his decision and telling unhappy fans to “line up single file… and kiss my ass.” The blunt retort only fueled fan frustration, creating what Maven Huffman described as a widening disconnect between the podcast’s hosts and its audience[1].
Maven Huffman’s Perspective: “Matt Was the Heartbeat of the Show”
As the debate raged, Maven Huffman—an alumnus of both WWE and reality TV—released a video on his YouTube channel breaking down the situation. Huffman, who remains close to both Calaway and McCool, acknowledged the invaluable role Matt Lyda played in the show’s early success.
“Matt was the heel, the bad guy of the show,” Huffman explained. “He was the easy target to a Taker who everyone loved… Matt was a driving force to help keep that show rolling. And he was one of those things that you truly don’t miss until it’s gone”[1].
Huffman went on to address speculation regarding Lyda’s abrupt removal. While internet rumor has pointed fingers at The Undertaker, Huffman suggested the change was more likely a result of WWE’s increased involvement and desire for a more controlled product. “The specifics between Matt and Mark are theirs alone, but it’s clear the transition was mishandled. Matt wasn’t angry—he was hurt. Hurt that after years of building something, he was excluded so suddenly”[1].
A source close to the show echoed this sentiment, telling us, “Matt poured years into making Six Feet Under what it was. The switch to the WWE umbrella changed everything. It’s not the show fans fell in love with, and the way it was handled left a lot of people feeling blindsided.”
Michelle McCool’s Role: Nepotism or Natural Evolution?
The appointment of Michelle McCool as co-host was met with skepticism from segments of the fanbase, who saw her elevation as a result of her marriage to The Undertaker rather than her own merit[2][3]. Huffman addressed these accusations directly, arguing that dismissing McCool’s contributions as mere nepotism ignores her significant impact on women’s wrestling.
“Claiming it’s 100% nepotism undermines her talents and accomplishments within women’s wrestling,” Huffman stated. “Michelle helped bridge the gap from the ‘Bra and Panties’ era to where women’s wrestling is today”[1].
Still, he conceded that the optics were difficult, especially given the timing of her Hall of Fame induction and her high-profile role on WWE LFG. According to a WWE insider, “There was always going to be scrutiny when Michelle stepped in, but she’s proved herself time and again inside and outside the ring.”
The Undertaker’s Emotional Reaction: A Legend’s Frustration
Perhaps the most surprising element of the controversy has been The Undertaker’s own reaction. Known for his stoic, unflappable demeanor, Calaway’s emotional response to criticism was uncharacteristic. “After 30 years of giving everything, he might have felt like he had more goodwill built up with the fan base,” Huffman reflected. “Not saying he didn’t, just saying that might be how he views it”[1].
Backstage, sentiments were similar. One veteran WWE producer commented, “Mark’s always put the business ahead of himself. To see the fans turn so quickly—especially after all he’s given—really stung. That’s why his response was so blunt. It was emotional, maybe more than people realize.”
WWE’s New Direction: “Watch Along” Format and the Future of Six Feet Under
The controversy comes as WWE has doubled down on its investment in The Undertaker’s brand, launching a dedicated YouTube channel and introducing a new “Watch Along” format for Six Feet Under. This pivot reflects WWE’s broader strategy of leveraging its legends and reality content to reach new audiences and deepen fan engagement[1].
Huffman, for his part, encouraged disillusioned fans to give the new format a chance, acknowledging that wrestling—and wrestling media—are constantly evolving. “Content is always changing. If you loved what Matt and Mark built, there’s still something here for you. Give it a shot,” he advised[1].
Maven’s Final Word: Respect Earned, Not Given
Ultimately, Huffman defended The Undertaker’s autonomy to shape his post-wrestling career as he sees fit. “If Mark wants to sit back in a BarcaLounger and watch college football all day and not have a podcast at all, he’s earned that right. And if he wants to have his wife on the couch with him… he’s earned that right too”[1].
According to sources close to WWE creative, there’s an understanding within the company that the transition was rocky but necessary for bringing the podcast under the WWE umbrella. “There were always going to be growing pains,” said one official. “But if anyone’s earned the ability to do things his way, it’s The Undertaker.”
As the dust settles, one thing is clear: Six Feet Under remains a focal point for discussions about authenticity, loyalty, and the evolving relationship between WWE legends and their fans. Whether the show can recapture its original spirit—or forge a compelling new identity—remains to be seen.
“Wrestling has always been about adapting to change,” Huffman concluded in his video. “This is just another chapter. The Undertaker’s story isn’t finished yet.”[1]