Women’s Wrestling: Thriving And Inclusive

Title: The Women’s Wrestling Landscape

Despite societal norms, women’s wrestling has emerged as a vibrant and thriving aspect of the industry. Major promotions like Stardom and AEW showcase talented wrestlers such as Awesome Kong and Mercedes Martinez. Events like WrestleKingdom attract global attention, while promoters like Rossy Ogawa (Stardom) and Tony Khan (AEW) play a pivotal role in supporting female athletes. Publications like Pro Wrestling Illustrated cover their triumphs, and social media movements like #FatFemaleWrestlers promote inclusivity and body positivity. Organizations like the Women’s Wrestling Army advocate for their advancement, further contributing to the recognition and growth of women’s wrestling.

The Trailblazing World of Women’s Wrestling

Organizations: The Cornerstones of a Thriving Scene

The women’s wrestling landscape is a testament to the power of determination and the passion of its supporters. Major promotions like Stardom have championed women in the ring, hosting prestigious events like the Stardom World Climax and 5★Star Grand Prix. Their dedication to showcasing elite female talent has pushed the boundaries of women’s wrestling.

AEW has emerged as a trailblazer in the US, presenting women’s matches in prime time on national television. Their All Elite Women’s Casino Battle Royale and All Out events have attracted a dedicated fanbase, proving that women’s wrestling can captivate a global audience.

Impact Wrestling (formerly TNA) has long been a haven for women wrestlers. With its Knockouts Division, Impact has been a platform for legendary performers like Gail Kim and Awesome Kong. The division’s recent resurgence has introduced a new generation of superstars, including the dynamic Mickie James.

NWA has paid homage to the golden age of women’s wrestling with its NWA Women’s Championship and the Mae Young Classic. These initiatives have revived the legacy of female wrestlers from the past while paving the way for the future.

These promotions are not just platforms for competition; they are champions of women’s wrestling, providing opportunities, developing talent, and breaking down barriers. They have created a thriving ecosystem where women can showcase their athleticism, storytelling abilities, and unstoppable spirit.

Women’s Wrestling’s Shining Stars: Meet the Trailblazing Wrestlers

In the burgeoning landscape of women’s wrestling, the spotlight shines brightly on a constellation of extraordinary talents who have shattered barriers and captivated audiences with their athleticism and storytelling prowess. From the thunderous reign of Awesome Kong to the indomitable spirit of Thunder Rosa, these women have left an indelible mark on the industry.

Awesome Kong: An Unstoppable Force

Hailing from the land of the rising sun, Awesome Kong is a formidable force to be reckoned with. With her monstrous power and signature “Uranage PTSD,” she has terrorized opponents throughout the world. Kong’s fearless persona and unparalleled strength have earned her the respect and admiration of fans and wrestlers alike.

Thunder Rosa: The Mexican Sensation

A true lucha libre warrior, Thunder Rosa has mesmerized audiences with her high-flying maneuvers and unwavering determination. Her relentless pursuit of excellence has led her to championship gold and accolades from critics far and wide. Rosa’s charismatic presence and storytelling ability have made her a standout performer and an inspiration to aspiring wrestlers.

Mercedes Martinez: The Groundbreaking Veteran

A veteran of the ring with over two decades of experience, Mercedes Martinez has witnessed firsthand the evolution of women’s wrestling. Her technical prowess, brutal submission tactics, and unwavering work ethic have earned her the respect of her peers and the admiration of fans. Martinez’s contributions to the industry have paved the way for future generations of women wrestlers.

Santana Garrett: The All-Around Talent

Santana Garrett is a versatile performer who has excelled in both the singles and tag team divisions. Her athleticism, high-energy style, and infectious personality have made her a fan favorite. Garrett’s ability to connect with audiences and deliver memorable performances has solidified her place among the top female wrestlers of today.

Significant Events in Women’s Wrestling

WrestleKingdom: The Grandest Stage

• The biggest night in Japanese wrestling, WrestleKingdom has featured show-stopping women’s matches since the first event.
• In 2023, Mayu Iwatani and KAIRI captivated the crowd with a thrilling main event.

Rebellion: A Showcase of Women’s Division Power

• Impact Wrestling’s Rebellion has become a must-watch event for women’s wrestling fans.
• Jordynne Grace, Mickie James, and Chelsea Green have all had memorable matches at the event.

SHIMMER Shine: A Proving Ground for Future Stars

• SHIMMER has been a cornerstone of women’s wrestling for over a decade.
• The promotion has played a pivotal role in the development of wrestlers like Mercedes Martinez and Kris Statlander.
• **All In:* A Historic Night for Women’s Wrestling
• The All In pay-per-view in 2018 marked a major moment in women’s wrestling history.
• Kenny Omega and Cody Rhodes put their title defenses on the line in two of the show’s main events.

Mae Young Classic: WWE’s Global Spotlight

• WWE’s Mae Young Classic tournaments have provided a global platform for women’s wrestlers.
• Toni Storm, Io Shirai, and Kairi Sane are just a few of the stars who have made their mark in the MYC.

These events are just a taste of the rich tapestry that is women’s wrestling. From the grandeur of WrestleKingdom to the intimacy of SHIMMER, the sport continues to grow and captivate audiences around the world.

Promoters: Recognize the individuals responsible for promoting and supporting women’s wrestling, including Rossy Ogawa (Stardom) and Tony Khan (AEW).

Promoters: The Architects of Women’s Wrestling

In the world of women’s wrestling, there are individuals who have gone above and beyond to elevate and support this vibrant scene. Meet the promoters who have dedicated their hearts and souls to giving these women a platform to shine.

• Rossy Ogawa (Stardom): The mastermind behind Japan’s Stardom promotion, Rossy Ogawa is a visionary who has revolutionized the way women’s wrestling is presented. Stardom has become a breeding ground for some of the world’s top stars, showcasing their athleticism and captivating storytelling.

• Tony Khan (AEW): The founder of All Elite Wrestling (AEW), Tony Khan is a passionate supporter of women’s wrestling. AEW has given women a prominent platform on its weekly television show, Dynamite, and has created the highly acclaimed “AEW Women’s World Championship.” Khan’s commitment to equality has been a major catalyst in the growth of women’s wrestling.

These promoters are not just businesspeople; they are true believers in the power of women’s wrestling. They recognize the talent, determination, and stories that these amazing athletes have to share. Their dedication has paved the way for a brighter future for women in the ring, inspiring fans around the world.

Commentators: The Voices of Women’s Wrestling

Commentators hold the microphone, the gateway between the ring and the audience. They narrate the action, shape perceptions, and, in the case of women’s wrestling, play a pivotal role in elevating and promoting this thriving arena.

Meet Excalibur, the voice of AEW’s women’s division. With his passion for wrestling, he not only calls the matches but also showcases the technical prowess and determination of the women in the ring. He amplifies their every move, giving them the spotlight they deserve.

Across the pond in ROH, Kevin Kelly stands as another pillar of women’s wrestling commentary. His enthusiasm and knowledge bring a level of authenticity to the broadcasts. He respects these athletes as equals, highlighting their skill and resilience in a male-dominated industry.

Publications that Champion the Women’s Wrestling Revolution

The women’s wrestling landscape is thriving, and it’s not just in the ring. A vibrant community of publications is dedicated to covering and supporting the rise of women’s wrestling, providing fans with in-depth analysis, interviews, and commentary.

Magazines:

• Pro Wrestling Illustrated: The granddaddy of wrestling magazines, PWI has been covering women’s wrestling for decades, featuring profiles on top stars and exclusive interviews.
• Fighting Spirit Magazine: This UK-based publication is a must-read for fans of international women’s wrestling, providing coverage of promotions like Stardom and Sendai Girls’ Pro Wrestling.

Websites:

• Bodyslam.net: An online hub for all things wrestling, Bodyslam has a dedicated section to women’s wrestling, featuring match reports, reviews, and columns.
• The Wrevolution: This website is solely focused on women’s wrestling, providing news, podcasts, and interviews with wrestlers and industry insiders.

Podcasts:

• Women’s Wrestling Talk: Hosted by Kelly Wells and Jeff Hawkins, this podcast offers a lively and informative take on women’s wrestling.
• The Wrestling Code: Hosted by wrestling journalist Heidi Lovelace, this podcast features interviews with top women wrestlers and discussions about the industry.

These publications play a vital role in the growth of women’s wrestling, providing fans with access to a wealth of information and commentary. They help to elevate women’s wrestling as a legitimate sport and celebrate the incredible athletes who are making history in the ring.

Social Media: Amplifying Body Positivity and Inclusivity in Women’s Wrestling

Social media has become a powerful force in promoting body positivity and inclusivity in women’s wrestling. Hashtags like #FatFemaleWrestlers and #ThickThighsSaveLives have gained traction, showcasing the diverse beauty and strength of women wrestlers.

These online movements celebrate wrestlers of all shapes and sizes, challenging stereotypes and promoting self-acceptance. They have created a sense of community and belonging for women who may have once felt marginalized in the sport.

For example, wrestler Ruby Soho has been a vocal advocate for body positivity. She often shares photos and stories that encourage her followers to embrace their own unique bodies. By using her platform to normalize different body types, she inspires countless women to pursue their wrestling dreams.

Other Entities Championing Women’s Wrestling

Beyond the prominent organizations and individuals, a vibrant ecosystem of entities is dedicated to supporting and advocating for women’s wrestling. These gems play a crucial role in fostering growth, visibility, and inclusivity within the sport.

Women’s Wrestling Army

Championing body positivity, Women’s Wrestling Army provides a platform for wrestlers and fans who break away from conventional beauty standards. Their events and initiatives empower women of all shapes and sizes, proving that “Thick Thighs Save Lives!”

Fat Wrestling Magazine

Challenging society’s perception of size, Fat Wrestling Magazine celebrates the beauty and athleticism of wrestlers who don’t fit into the stereotypical mold. With compelling articles and interviews, they champion inclusivity and inspire everyone to embrace their unique bodies.

IndependentWrestling.tv

Streaming live events and VODs, IndependentWrestling.tv is a haven for fans of women’s wrestling. They showcase independent promotions and wrestlers, providing a vital platform for those who may not have access to mainstream exposure. By giving women’s wrestling a stage, they help it reach a wider audience.

These organizations and resources stand as shining beacons in the women’s wrestling landscape. They empower wrestlers, promote body positivity, and provide opportunities for growth. Their collective efforts are instrumental in creating a more inclusive and equitable environment for women in the sport.