The Black Rasslin' Podcast returns for a healthy dose of rasslin'-flavored insight and entertainment! This week, Fam, Matth, Mimi, DDm and khal talk WWE's King & Queen of the Ring PLE and AEW's Double Or Nothing PPV, as well as Sexyy Red's NXT appearance, Liv Morgan as a Women's World Champion, NXT's build for Battleground, and MUCH more!
You know the routine: you can stream and download this week's episode via SoundCloud, and subscribe via Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. We also stream live every Thursday at 8:35PM ET on YouTube. We also encourage you to become a member of the BRPatreon,
where you can get even MORE exclusive content (and merch discounts)!
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The Black Rasslin' Podcast returns for a healthy dose of rasslin'-flavored insight and entertainment! This week, Fam, Matth, Mimi, DDm and khal talk the latest on Mercedes Moné, the King & Queen of the Ring
tournaments, Ricky Starks, the latest ASÉ card announcement, and MUCH
MORE!
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 stream live every Thursday at 8:35PM ET on YouTube. We also encourage you to become a member of the BRPatreon,
where you can get even MORE exclusive content (and merch discounts)!
We'll catch you next week; tell a friend to tell their homies to LIKE,
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The Black Rasslin' Podcast returns for a healthy dose of rasslin'-flavored insight and entertainment! This week, Fam, Matth, DDm and khal the latest in Kendrick Lamar and Drake's battle, WWE Backlash France, Jade Cargill's progress in WWE, the King and Queen of the Ring tournaments, Mercedes Moné facing Willow Nightingale at AEW Double or Nothing, and much more!
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 stream live every Thursday at 8:35PM ET on YouTube. We also encourage you to become a member of the BRPatreon,
where you can get even MORE exclusive content (and merch discounts)!
We'll catch you next week; tell a friend to tell their homies to LIKE,
rate, comment, subscribe, and
share!
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.
The Black Rasslin' Podcast returns with healthy dose of rasslin'-flavored poddin'. This week, Mimi, Fam, and khal are joined by NXT's own Wes Lee! Later, the squad talks Sunday's NXT: Great American Bash card, Athena and Willow Nightingale main eventing Death Before Dishonor, Seth Rollins shopping for sneakers, and much more!
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 stream live every Thursday at 8:35PM ET on YouTube. We also encourage you to become a member of the BRPatreon,
where you can get even MORE exclusive content (and merch discounts)!
We'll catch you next week; tell a friend to tell their homies to LIKE,
rate, comment, subscribe, and
share!
The Black Rasslin' Podcast returns with healthy dose of rasslin'-flavored poddin'. This week, Mimi, Fam, Matth, and khal discuss the fallout of WWE's Money in the Bank PLE, Roman Reigns, The Usos, and the journey of The Bloodline, the Judgment Day, Jon Moxley getting skewered, Willow Nightingale losing the NJPW Strong Women's title, AEW's Owen Hart tournament, and more!!
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 stream live every Thursday at 8:35PM ET on YouTube. We also encourage you to become a member of the BRPatreon,
where you can get even MORE exclusive content (and merch discounts)!
We'll catch you next week; tell a friend to tell their homies to LIKE,
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Although social media can be criticized for many things—with Wrestling Twitter having its own special place of toxicity and tribalism—it has been an excellent tool for discovering and finding your tribe of people who share your interests. Perhaps no place is this truer in pro wrestling than the boon of African Americans in the industry. At one time, Black wrestlers and their fans were little more than a novelty that was often met with a raised eyebrow when discussed out in the wild. But the past decade has seen exponential growth in both fans and talent across multiple promotions. And with that growth has come an era today where Black champions are almost normalized.
Thanks to acts like The New Day (Kofi Kingston, Xavier Woods and Big E), Bianca Belair, Jade Cargill, Mercedes Moné (FKA Sasha Banks), Keith Lee, Bobby Lashley, Carmelo Hayes, Jay Lethal and others, the idea of a Black champion in professional wrestling is no longer a foreign concept.
The mold of what a Black wrestler is supposed to be no longer exists and the archetype that toggled somewhere between mindless brute and smiling Sambo for the better part of 40 years has been shattered. The idea of no longer being hamstrung by stereotypes has opened the door for African Americans to be true to themselves both in and out of the ring.
Why did it take so long?
For starters, the biggest wrestling promotion in the world was run through the eyes of a conservative white man who built the entirety of his company on stereotypes. Foreigners and minorities were often typecast into roles that the All-American white man had to conquer. Mexicans rode lawnmowers, Asians never spoke English, gay wrestlers were treated as jokes, and Black wrestlers were thugs or overly happy and way too eager to entertain the masses. None were ever viewed as champions unless they had white friends or stripped themselves of their culture on their way to the top.
Somehow, pro wrestling is one of the last forms of entertainment to reflect society. Think about this: there was a Black president before there was an African-born WWE champion.
With Black talent holding prominent positions in major wrestling promotions, it’s only right that we’ve seen a significant rise of African Americans in the indie ranks over the past decade. And as we’ve seen for the past decade, the independent scene is ripe with talent that will eventually feed into the major promotions as they seek new stars.
There was a time that you couldn’t find 50 Black pro wrestlers to fill up a list. But there is an abundance of talent to deliberate over that stretches across the globe. From the brilliant stylings of British talent Michael Oku to the physically imposing—but stunningly agile—Calvin Tankman to the technically superior Jonathan Gresham and the inexplicably talented Bianca Belair, there’s something for everyone and no two Black wrestlers are the same.
What makes this era truly special is the community that supports Black talent and, in turn, is responsible for them being pushed to the top of the card. The idea that the straight white male/female is the prototype for a wrestling promotion’s idea of a superstar is antiquated and, as a result, pro wrestling fans of all genders and races simply want their wrestling to reflect a society that is wrestling with diversity every single day. It may not be perfect, but it’s something that we can truly feel that we are a part of.
There are promotions that dedicate themselves to Black talent like Atlanta’s BattleSlam, shows that spotlight the Black indie scene like GCW’s For The Culture and events that bring the community together simply to celebrate one another, like WaleMania. We are no longer spectators yearning for scraps. We are a big chunk of the community that promoters are now forced to pay attention to. Our desires as wrestling fans won’t be ignored. And if they are, we’ll be sure to make a lot of noise.
Ask Black Wrestling Twitter.
While the casual wrestling fan is surely cognizant of the Bianca Belairs, Willow Nightingales, Ricochets, Powerhouse Hobbs and Ricky Starks of the industry because they grace our television screens on a weekly basis, there is a burgeoning community of Black independent talent that is truly tearing up the scene and absolutely necessary to be placed on your radar. The art of discovery is still significant and nobody wants to be late to the party when identifying something special within our community.
Not all of them will make it to the major leagues, and that’s okay. Not all of our favorite rappers end up being signed to a major label, either. And, oftentimes, it’s better that way because it doesn’t water them down. Some are sadistically hyper-violent (Billy Dixon), others are far too in touch with the dark side (Holidead) and then there are the absurdly athletic innovators of offense (Kevin Knight). They are globetrotters who make a living traversing across state lines and getting their passports stamped to showcase their ability. Eventually, some will make their way to the major promotions and (hopefully) continue to display just how uniquely diverse Black wrestlers are.
Remember, before he showed up in NXT, nobody had ever seen a big man move quite like Keith Lee did in the indies. Or, a woman who Vince McMahon would have ridiculed for her overly joyful persona and body type that isn’t rail thin but can absolutely go in the ring like Willow Nightingale. Or, a wrestler who defied gravity to the point that his ariel offense was considered a unique artform like Ricochet.
Black wrestlers continue to innovate and eventually become game-changers.
With that, it’s only right that we spotlight a few so you can make sure you catch them when they pay your city a visit.
***
Andreas Hale is the Senior Combat Sports Writer at The Sporting News. He’s also the co-host of “The Corner Podcast” with ESPN Ringside’s Kel Dansby, an on-air talent on Sirius XM’s Fight Nation and co host of “Fighting Words.” Before covering boxing, MMA and pro wrestling, Andreas held senior positions at HipHopDX, BET and Jay-Z’s Life+Times. He’s also the co-creator of the upcoming animated series “Our Heroes Rock” with Ettore “Big E” Ewen and Jonathan Davenport.
The Black Rasslin' Podcast returns with healthy dose of insight and entertainment. This week, illfam79, Mimi, Drip, and khal are joined by Mighty Vin Forte to properly pre-game a huge Memorial Day Weekend in pro wrestling. The squad will be previewing WWE Night of Champions (and giving their predictions), as well as looking ahead at Impact's Under Siege show on Friday (and Under Siege Fallout on Saturday), NXT Battleground, and AEW Double Or Nothing. They also look at the latest in Willow Nightingale's big NJPW Strong Women's Championship win over Mercedes Mone and much more!
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 stream live every Thursday at 8:35PM ET on YouTube. We also encourage you to become a member of the BRPatreon,
where you can get even MORE exclusive content (and merch discounts)!
We'll catch you next week; tell a friend to tell their homies to LIKE,
rate, comment, subscribe, and
share!
The Black Rasslin' Podcast returns with healthy dose of insight and entertainment ahead of a busy weekend. This week, illfam79, Matth, Drip, and khal are on hand to discuss Taya Valkyrie's AEW debut and what that means for Jade Cargill's AEW TBS title reign (and Cargill's future), the updated WrestleMania 39 card, Rey Mysterio and Great Muta being added to the 2023 WWE Hall of Fame class, the best storylines in pro wrestling, the current state of NXT, Willow Nightingale vs. Athena on ROH on Honor Club, and a LOT more!
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 stream live every Thursday at 8:35PM ET on YouTube. We also encourage you to become a member of the BRPatreon,
where you can get even MORE exclusive content (and merch discounts)!
We'll catch you next week; tell a friend to tell their homies to LIKE,
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The Black Rasslin' Podcast returns (w/ MightyVin!) for another week of pro wrestling conversation. This week, Matth, Drip, Mimi, and khal are talking Wes Lee winning NXT gold at Halloween Havoc, Ava Raine making her debut the following Tuesday, the Karl Anderson situation, Dominik Mysterio, Rhea Ripley, the 2022 PWI Women's 150 Top 10 and much more!
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 stream live every Thursday at 8:35PM ET on YouTube. We also encourage you to become a member of the BRPatreon,
where you can get even MORE exclusive content (and merch discounts)!
We'll catch you next week; tell a friend to tell their homies to LIKE,
rate, comment, subscribe, and
share!
For four years, The Black Rasslin’ Podcasthas 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.
Willow Nightingale joins The Black Rasslin' Podcast for a chat about where she's at right now! Nightingale opens up about dealing with imposter syndrome, the goals she's accomplished so far, her upcoming match against Mia Yim at Prestige's THE NEW REALITY event on June 18, being a part of IWTV's The Life Of series, THAT POUNCE, and much more!
While the third-annual #BRP50 dropped this past Juneteenth, The Black Rasslin' Podcast and We Luv Wrestling-presented "After The 50" list—a list conceived to both a) shine a light on Black professional wrestlers we love who were just outside of the #BRP50 and b) make you realize that there are way more than just 50 Black professional wrestlers out there—justdropped this past week. The 2020 #BRP50's After the 50 List was presented in collaborationwithBlack Wrestling Alliance, and featured the likes of Calvin Tankman, Kayden Carter, Leon Ruff, and plenty others. This year, after building with We Luv Wrestling and recognizing their dedication to the world of pro wrestling, it just made sense to collaborate with them on this project.
Check out the full 2021 #AfterThe50 video and the full list below. You can also check out our conversation about both lists over on We Luv Wrestling.
The Black Rasslin' Podcast and We Luv Wrestling present the 2021 "After the 50"
