WOMEN IN THE RING: DEFYING ODDS AND REDEFINING SPORTS ENTERTAINMENT

WOMEN IN THE RING: DEFYING ODDS AND REDEFINING SPORTS ENTERTAINMENT

9:00 AM   Aja Smith, Bianca Belair, Jacqueline, Jazz, Mercedes Moné, Mimi, Naomi, Trish Adora, Willow Nightingale, Women's History Month,

Bianca Belair tells the women's division what it is (Image via WWE)

Words: Mimi aka #TheWrestlingChic

The world of professional wrestling, once a male-dominated sport, has evolved dramatically, with women wrestlers (referred to as 'Divas' in the past and now 'Superstars' like their male counterparts) taking center stage and captivating audiences worldwide. The transformation within the industry has not only elevated the status of women in the sport, but has also spotlighted the significant contributions and challenges faced by women of color, who have broken down barriers and altered the narrative within the squared circle.

Breaking the Mold

Historically, women's roles in wrestling were confined to peripheral figures—managers, valets, or occasional novelty acts. However, as the winds of change swept through the industry, women like Chyna began to assert themselves as strong athletes capable of powerful performances that rivaled their male counterparts. This shift was not overnight; it was a gradual progression fueled by pioneering women who dared to challenge the status quo.

Women of color, in particular, have played a pivotal role in this evolution. Figures like Jacqueline, who became the first African American woman to win the WWE Women's Championship, and Jazz, known for her raw power and technical skill set, set the stage for future generations. They faced challenges common to all women in the industry, such as battling stereotypes and advocating for equal opportunities, and additional hurdles related to racial bias and representation.

The Glow of Representation

One of the most impactful aspects of the rise of women of color in wrestling is the representation they provide. Seeing oneself reflected in a hero in the ring can be incredibly empowering. Superstars like Mercedes Moné (formerly Sasha Banks), Bianca Belair, and Naomi have become beacons of inspiration, showcasing not just athletic excellence, but also the richness of cultural diversity. 

Moné, a cornerstone of the Women's Evolution, has made immeasurable contributions to women's wrestling. Her iconic WrestleMania moments not only delivered incredible performances but also carried the legacy of women of color in wrestling, making history with every match.

Naomi, known for her athleticism and the 'Glow' persona, Naomi has been a beacon of positivity and innovation. Naomi reign as SmackDown Women's Champion was a significant moment, highlighting the importance of representation and character development in women's wrestling.

Bianca Belair and her 'EST of WWE' persona embody the modern wrestling superstar—confident, skilled, and unapologetically herself. Her victory at WrestleMania 37, where Belair won the SmackDown Women's Championship, was a landmark moment that marked the changing of the guard in WWE's portrayal of women, especially women of color, and solidified her place as a trailblazer in the industry.

Challenges and Triumphs

Despite these successes, the journey for women in wrestling is fraught with challenges. Issues of typecasting, limited storylines, and unequal screen time persist. However, the industry's growing awareness and the vocal support from fans are driving positive changes. Initiatives aimed at inclusivity and equality are becoming more prominent in most promotions, with talented women making a statement as a testament to this shift.

As the daughter of Ric Flair, Charlotte Flair had big shoes to fill, and she has more than lived up to the legacy. With her unparalleled athleticism and flair—pun intended—for drama, Charlotte has been at the forefront of the Women's Evolution, setting new standards, especially in style and grace, for what female athletes can achieve in the ring. 

Bayley's journey from the ultimate fan-girl to a formidable champion encapsulates the evolution of women's wrestling. Bayley's ability to connect with the audience and her versatility in the ring have made her a central figure in the women's division.

The evolution of women's wrestling is also mirrored in the indie circuits and international promotions, where women are increasingly leading the charge, showcasing diverse wrestling styles and narratives that enrich the global wrestling tapestry.

Asuka's contribution to women's wrestling is profound, multifaceted, and extends across continents. She has shattered stereotypes, set new benchmarks, and paved the way for a more inclusive and diverse representation of female athletes in professional wrestling from Japan to the US. The "Empress of Tomorrow" is not just a moniker; it's a nod to Asuka's enduring legacy and her role in shaping the future of the sport.

Jordynne Grace, Willow Nightingale & Trisha Adora: These women, each making waves in their respective promotions, represent a diverse and dynamic future of women's wrestling. With their unique styles, compelling characters and in-ring abilities, they are expanding the narrative of what women in wrestling can be.

Aja Smith made history in WWE by as the first full-time African American female referee. Smith joined the WWE in early 2020, her trailblazing role marked a significant milestone in wrestling's ongoing journey towards diversity, equity and inclusion. Before stepping into the ring as a referee, Smith was known for being an aspiring wrestler on the independent wrestling circuit. Her transition to officiating matches in one of the biggest promotions in the world, showcases the company’s commitment to diversifying its talent pool, not just among its wrestlers, but also within the vital roles that support sports entertainment. Smith's presence in the ring serves as an inspiring symbol of progress, demonstrating that talent and passion can pave the way for groundbreaking achievements in traditionally male-dominated spaces.

The impact of women, especially women of color, in professional wrestling is profound and extensive. They have revolutionized what it means to be a women’s wrestler and its responsibility, and have also influenced the backstage dynamics and pushed for more equitable opportunities. They have entertained millions and inspired a new generation of female athletes to pursue their dreams. As the industry continues to evolve, the contributions of these trailblazing women will undoubtedly shape the sport’s future, ensuring that the wrestling ring is a place where talent shines, irrespective of gender or color.

#WHM

Be sure to check out BRP's content on our website and our Black Rasslin' Podcast Patreon for exclusive pro wrestling content.

Mimi, aka #TheWrestlingChic is a co-host of #TheBuckle aka #TurnbuckleTalk every Tuesday at 6:35PM ET and every Thursday at 8:35PM ET on The Black Rasslin' Podcast.

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ASÉ Wrestling showed up and showed out!

ASÉ Wrestling showed up and showed out!

6:30 PM   ASÉ Wrestling, BRP, Darius Carter, Darius Lockhart, Jonathan Gresham, No Cap Recap, Trish Adora, YouTube,

Last week, Darius Lockhart introduced the world to ASÉ Wrestling, featuring everyone from Aja Kong and Jonathan Gresham to Trish Adora, the Infantry, and Darius Carter. The crew (and the chat who were in attendance!) give their thoughts on the debut show, their favorite matches, seeing Jabot on screen, and much more!

For more on this show, check out Mimi's full review.

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ASÉ Wrestling's All Black Wrestling Promotion Debuts: Redefining Excellence in the Wrestling World

ASÉ Wrestling's All Black Wrestling Promotion Debuts: Redefining Excellence in the Wrestling World

10:43 AM   Aja Kong, ASÉ Wrestling, Billy Dixon, Charity King, Darius Carter, Darius Lockhart, Jonathan Gresham, Kiera Hogan, Mimi, Trish Adora,

Words: Mimi aka #TheWrestlingChic

The inaugural ASÉ Wrestling show took place at Charlotte, North Carolina's Grady Cole Center on Friday, December 1st. Unlike your typical wrestling event, this groundbreaking Black promotion featured a unique blend of Black music, culture, and combat sports entertainment, attracting more than 300+ fans in person (with more watching via livestream).

ASÉ is more than just a wrestling promotion; it celebrates Black excellence and creativity. ASÉ Wrestling is the curated vision of "The Revolutionary" Darius Lockhart, a pro wrestler whose motto is "where there is people, there is power." Lockhart wanted to provide a platform for Black wrestlers and performers to showcase their skills.

With support from some seasoned veterans in the industry, Lockhart delivered more than we expected.  WWE Hall of Famer and Busted Open co-host Mark Henry provided kind words that aired during the broadcast, which also featured the fantastic play-by-play commentary team of former WWE Legend and IMPACT Wrestling producer D'Lo Brown and WRAL-TV's anchor and reporter Chris Lea; while the incomparable and unstoppable Big Swole was the night’s host, showcasing her crowd-hyping charisma. With confidence and style, Nadiah Hunter announced each match and Gerard Bonner from BattleSlam and South Honor Wrestling conducted pre- and post-match interviews like a true pro. ASÉ1 not only featured some of the best Black indie talents; fans in attendance got a special live performance from the Grammy-nominated, platinum recording artist Lute, who is signed to Dreamville Records, a label founded by Charlotte's J. Cole.

The show featured six stellar matches; here are some highlights from the event.

Trish Adora vs. Aja Kong

One of the most anticipated matches of the night was Trish Adora vs. Aja Kong, a clash of generations between two phenomenal Black women main eventing at the Grady Cole Center for the first time. Former Pan-African Diaspora Champion Trish Adora has undoubtedly risen in the Black independent scene by making a name for herself with her skill sets. Aja Kong is a legend in the wrestling business who has been dominating opponents for over three decades, and also known for her brutal power moves and intimidating presence. She has won numerous championships in Japan and has faced some of the best wrestlers in history. This match was a test of skill, strength and will between two women who represent different eras and styles of wrestling.

Jonathan Gresham vs. Darius Carter

This bout was a battle of style and personalities between two of the greatest Black wrestlers today, "The Octopus" Jonathan Gresham vs. "The ALL FATHER" Darius Carter! Gresham has traveled the globe and honed his craft as one of the most skilled and versatile grapplers in pro wrestling. He's won accolades and championships, including the Ring of Honor World Championship, and was ranked No. 7 on the #BRP50 list in 2022. Currently ranked No. 15 on this year's #BRP50 list, Darius Carter has built up his name on the Black independent wrestling scene worldwide, becoming one of wrestling's most notoriously arrogant and ruthless heels, while blending the style and look of pro wrestling in 2023, with the foundational in-ring skill of many wrestlers from the '80s and '90s. Gresham faced a tough challenge in Carter, but Dastardly Darius claimed victory, proving he is worth more than any title or accolade in the industry. Overpower your opponent and outcheat; you can't hate 'em for it!

Kiera Hogan vs. Charity King

Another highlight of the night was Hogan vs. King, two Black women who did their thing that night. Kiera Hogan has made waves in All Elite Wrestling (AEW) and IMPACT Wrestling as a former Knockouts Tag Team Champion. She showed King why she's one to watch in this business. She was ready for anything King threw at her. Charity King, a newcomer to the indie scene with only two years of experience, impressed everyone with her power and resilience. She gave Hogan a tough fight, but Hogan's speed and tenured skills were too much for her to handle.

She’s a cheater!! https://t.co/MMvSCgF0Hf

— Charity KING (@charityking_) December 2, 2023

The night included three more bouts: Jah-C faced Kevin Knight in a spectacular, high-flying opener, Infantry (Trish Adora’s homies Carlie Bravo and Sean Dean) took on TME (Gannon Jones, Jr. and Duke Davis) in a tag team match, and Team Georgia (Owen Knight, Trevor Aeon, Ashton Starr, and Suge D) battled Team North Carolina (Yahya, Movie Myk, Ian Maxwell, and Rehyan Inteus) in a four-on-four match that featured Darius Lockhart’s favorite moment of the entire evening. The event was also blessed with special appearances from Faye Jackson and Billy Dixon.

There was nothing short of impressive about this show. Undoubtedly, Darius Lockhart put a lot of thought and effort into crafting the art of ASÉ Wrestling. The product's branding, show rollout, production quality, and output style are outstanding. A person on the outside looking in cannot help but feel joy seeing the Black community unite and support this historic debut.

"The first ASÉ show may be one of my favorite first shows for a pro wrestling organization in some time. It being all-Black is a primary key, but it felt like TV. Business picked up when Darius Carter walked into the ring, but I must give it to TME. Gannon Jones, Jr.—who picked up IWC gold the following night—was really impressive. Need that ASÉ2 date confirmed ASAP!" — Khal, Disputed BRP Predictions Champion

If you didn't catch the live show, don't worry, you can still enjoy the thrilling action of ASÉ1 on their website. Check out all matches and the incredible talent of Black wrestlers. ASÉ Wrestling is the new sensation in the wrestling world; you don't want to miss it!

Mimi, aka #TheWrestlingChic, co-hosts #TurnbuckleTalk every Tuesday at 6:35 pm ET and contributes to the Black Rasslin' Podcast.

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LADIES FIRST: The 2022 #BRP50 Showcases the Black Women's Wrestling Revolution

LADIES FIRST: The 2022 #BRP50 Showcases the Black Women's Wrestling Revolution

8:00 AM   #BRP50, AEW, Bianca Belair, Impact, Jade Cargill, Naomi, Nyla Rose, ROH, Sasha Banks, Tasha Steelz, Trish Adora, Willow Nightingale, WWE,

Image via Jedi Jack Yeti

For four years, The Black Rasslin’ Podcast has dropped the #BRP50—which ranks the 50 Best Black professional wrestlers in the squared circle, today—on Juneteenth. While the aim has always been to shine a light on the talented Black performers in federations across the globe, we start to notice interesting trends when you examine each wrestler based on their win-loss records, the duration of the titles they’ve held, and their overall impact across the professional wrestling diaspora. Every year, there are interesting trends, and one clear trend that we noticed from May of 2021 through May of 2022, is that Black Women have been showing up, showing out, stealing the show, and helping pave the way for the future of women’s wrestling, not to mention the art of professional wrestling in general. Don’t believe me? Look no further than the EST of the WWE, current WWE Raw Women’s Champion, Bianca Belair.

Belair’s rise isn’t a fluke. We saw her early—I vaguely remember the start of the conversation, but through the haze, brother Matth called Belair, who was just starting to cook in NXT, a “superior athlete.” Then I saw her strength and agility in-ring, paired with her huge personality, and knew she was going to be a star. I don’t think I was ready for her to rise to the top so quickly—it’s rare for the WWE to book in ways that make an ornery Black dad smile—but I was glued to the TV whenever Belair’s music hit. Braid in hand, she’d command the arena, building her babyface rep while strutting into the 2022 #BRP50 calendar year as SmackDown Women’s Champion. That 133-day reign was cut short in 26 seconds, and internal conversations about this year’s #BRP50 looked specifically at where Belair would land based on whether she could win big. She won big, the queen sitting atop her throne with the Raw Women’s Championship, and could likely be one of the biggest stars the WWE has produced if they continue to keep her at the top of the card while allowing her to be as unapologetically Bianca as she wants to be.

That’s Monday night, though. Over on TBS, All Elite Wrestling (AEW) has been cultivating its own Black superstar. (Typing that felt weird as hell, but hear me out.) When we had her at a strong no. 16 on the 2021 #BRP50 list, there were some doubters. Many thought we were too early, and that she was too green. It didn’t matter; while everyone was wondering which male superstar Tony Khan was going to strap the rocket too, they slept on Jade Cargill’s rapid ascension to the top of the AEW Women’s division. Currently AEW TBS Champion—a title she’s held since January 5—she’s been on an undefeated streak, booting the competition with ease, while building up her Baddie Section, which aims to put beautiful women of all walks of life into the crowd. That gimmick led to Cargill forming a stable with Kiera Hogan and Red Velvet, which could eventually be the illest part of this entire gimmick. Jade Cargill, green as grass, dominates the competition in less than one year, and has already reached back to bring two dope performers along for the ride? That’s what you’re supposed to do.

While we are not blinded by the gold, it’s hard to neglect the championship accomplishments of Black women in professional wrestling. The situation between Sasha Banks and Naomi ended on an extremely sour note, but for a month and change, they were the WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions. Their energy was felt across the world—you could tell that they were having mad fun doing TikTok’s and being in their world…although in hindsight, that could have likely been due to what was lacking in their time like champs. Speaking of time as champion, Trisha Adora continues to hold that Pan-Afrikan World Diaspora Wrestling Championship—a title she won BEFORE THE PANDEMIC STARTED—high. We also had women like Tasha Steelz, who made it her business to own IMPACT throughout 2021 and 2022. After lighting up the Women’s Tag division with the aforementioned Kiera Hogan as Fire ‘N Flava, Steelz set her sights on a singles competition. Steelz spent the second half of 2021 building up her singles rep, making several impressive turns in tournaments she was featured in. At the top of 2022, she won the inaugural Knockouts Ultimate X match, eventually taking the Knockouts Championship from Mickie James back in March. On top of all of that, you can feel the hunger and passion in the Brick City bomber. Steelz been ready.

Another competitor we’d say has “been ready” is the mighty Willow Nightingale, who was just starting to consistently pop up on AEW Dark ahead of the 2022 #BRP50 calendar year. Nightingale, a seasoned vet with a big smile and a mean pounce who’s everywhere, has taken on everyone over the past year; Trish Adora, Tay Conti, Joseline Navarro, Wheeler YUTA, Effy, Queen Aminata, Kimber Lee, Brandi Rhodes, Deonna Purrazzo, Taya Valkyrie, and MANY more. The key? She’s done it as Willow, a super fun, tough pro wrestler who packs a pounce and feels like she’s destined for greatness.

There are even women on the 2022 #BRP50 that seem to have been grossly underutilized and underrepresented. Take Nyla Rose, who hasn’t held AEW gold in a bit but ended up vacating the VWR Women's Championship back in January after a 224-day run. Rose ended this run with a 40-5 record, with many of her wins happening on AEW Dark. That’s impressive, no matter how you slice it; it’s a run that feels like it could have championship implications if AEW wanted to prop Rose’s impressive record up like they would the record of an Adam Cole. Maybe when they are ready to have Jade Cargill take a break for a bit.

Keep in mind, that’s almost 1,000 words without mentioning Sasha Banks dominating the early part of the 2022 Royal Rumble. Or acknowledging the come-ups of Savannah Evans and Holidead, two women who are unique and undeniably ill in the ring. Or discussing the multiple belts Marti Belle has held on to over the last year, including the NWA Women’s Tag Team Championship. Black Women? They are running this wrestling shit. And that isn’t hyperbole: the most dominant women on both major professional wrestling shows are Black. (No diss, Rousey) I’m not going to hold you, but Sasha Banks is arguably one of the best pro wrestlers walking the Earth.

Lowkey, AEW has many talented Black Women getting their reps in, consistently, while IMPACT is unafraid in letting Tasha Steelz become the star we know she will be. And in a world where Trish Adora can stomp through ROH, AEW, and anywhere else she sees fit while still rocking the Pan-Afrikan World Diaspora Wrestling Championship on her waist. Amazing Black Women in professional wrestling exist and are stealing the show while walking away with the gold. Don’t trust us? Trust the stats. And follow the leaders.

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The Black Rasslin' Podcast: So, There Was a PPV Last Weekend

The Black Rasslin' Podcast: So, There Was a PPV Last Weekend

11:10 AM   AEW, mp3, NXT, podcast, Queen Aminata, Roman Reigns, Trish Adora, WWE,

The Black Rasslin' Podcast is back. Truth be told, illfam79, MatthDamon, and khal tried, and they do get into a lot of pro wrestling talk—Roman Reigns' reign is at the top of the discussion, which also does dive into the Clash of Champions: Gold Rush show, how COVID is jacking up pro wrestling, the state of NXT, and more. Really, though? It's just the gang big chilling. Interesting week.

Oh and for anyone wondering, here is Trish Adora's first Pan Afrikan World Disaspora Championship defense from over the weekend that we mentioned on the show, courtesy of We Luv Wrestling.

You know the routine: you can stream and download this week's episode via SoundCloud, and subscribe via Apple Podcasts, Google Play, and Spotify! We are even on YouTube. You can also support via our Big Cartel page by copping some hoodies and tees—the LOCK HEART t-shirts and hoodies are available NOW. We'll catch you next week; tell a friend to rate, comment, and share!

black rasslin' · So, There Was a PPV Last Weekend

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The Black Rasslin' Podcast: So, There's a PPV This Weekend...

The Black Rasslin' Podcast: So, There's a PPV This Weekend...

8:51 AM   AEW, Clash of Champions, mp3, podcast, PPV Predictions, RAW, Smackdown, Stat Guy Greg, The Hurt Business, Trish Adora, WWE,

 
The Black Rasslin' Podcast returns with an action-packed LIVE edition of the show. illfam79, MatthDamon, khal, and Drip are all on hand to not only discuss a week's worth of pro wrestling news—which included everything from the death of Road Warrior Animal and COVID cases popping up at a number of federations to asking if Roman Reigns is a heel and previewing Sunday's Clash of Champions card—but even deal with a surprise run-in from Cheap Heat's own Stat Guy Greg!

We even get into our conversation with Pan Afrikan World Diaspora Champion Trish Adora from earlier this week. If you haven't peeped that, please do TODAY.

You know the routine: you can stream and download this week's episode via SoundCloud, and subscribe via Apple Podcasts, Google Play, and Spotify! We are even on YouTube. You can also support via our Big Cartel page by copping some hoodies and tees, when we have merch available. We'll catch you next week; tell a friend to rate, comment, and share!

black rasslin' · So, There's a PPV This Weekend...

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The Black Rasslin' Podcast: The Trish Adora Interview

The Black Rasslin' Podcast: The Trish Adora Interview

8:59 AM   Casual Monday, GCW, interview, mp3, PAWD, podcast, Trish Adora, YouTube,

 

Ahead of her first defense of the Pan Afrikan World Diaspora Championship at GCW's Indiana Invasion show this weekend, Trish Adora joins the Black Rasslin' Podcast to talk about how she views the PAWD title and what it means to hold it. She also talks about how she's handled the pandemic, shares her thoughts on vegetarian MREs, and gives us a glimpse into what got her into the pro wrestling industry. Trish is For The Culture...check this one out.

You can stream and download this week's episode via SoundCloud, watch it via YouTube, and subscribe to the podcast via Apple Podcasts, Google Play, and Spotify! You can also support via our Big Cartel page by copping some hoodies and tees, when we have merch available. We'll catch you next week; tell a friend to rate, comment, and share!

black rasslin' · The Trish Adora Interview

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