Empowering Moments In The Ever-Growing World Of Women’s Wresting – Over the last few years, the world of women’s wrestling has expanded dramatically – especially in the context of WWE, which has become more and more popular with fans of all ages. This post explores some of the most important, empowering milestones for the long-ignored underdogs of the wrestling world; women.
The history of women in wrestling
It is possible to trace women’s wrestling, as we know it at least, back to the 1980s. In the 80s and 90s, athletes such as Sherri Martel and Wendi Richter rose to nationwide fame, paving the way for other women to step up and show off their skills.
By the early 2000s, things were beginning to change in a number of ways across the wrestling world, especially for women. Wrestling and women had a complicated relationship prior to this era. Wrestling was once an entirely male-dominated, largely sexist sport, in which women were generally only appreciated for the way they looked. By the 2000s, strong female characters had begun to emerge in their own storylines, and athletes were appreciated more for their ability and professional skills rather than just their bodies.
Diva’s Revolution
Arguably, this change led to the milestone moment that put women’s wrestling front and center of wrestling fandom. In 2015, with the advent of Women’s Evolution, formerly Diva’s Revolution, the way in which the industry viewed female athletes changed forever. Diva’s Revolution emerged as a way to get women more pay-per-views and screen time, and push equality to their male counterparts, and it certainly worked.
Diva’s Revolution also transformed the way fans looked at women’s wrestling. Fans began to appreciate female wrestlers as proper athletes, with skills, athleticism and sheer power that was no different to that of their male counterparts. Diva’s Revolution was responsible for empowering women the world over, and the show gained widespread popularity among male and female wrestling fans alike.
Ronda Rousey
Of course, we cannot discuss female wrestlers without discussing the legendary Ronda Rousey. Formerly a favorite of anyone who kept an eye on UFC odds, Rousey had already established female UFC fighters to be just as important as male fighters in the growth of the sport and its popularity.
Rousey transitioned to WWE wrestling in 2018, adding not only a big name for fans who would not previously have thought about watching women’s wrestling, but also a certain vicious credibility that only a UFC fighter could bring to the women’s division.
In 2018, the world of women’s wrestling developed even further, with the first all-women pay-per-view. This was effectively a progression from Diva’s Revolution that became Women’s Evolution. Evolution showcased the talents of three generations of female wrestlers, truly establishing women’s wrestling as something that was here to stay, and as we know, it continues to flourish.
Outside WWE
WWE’s platforming of women also changed the way in which independent wrestling incorporates women. Promotions such as Women of Honor, Shimmer Women Athletes and Women of Wrestling have all done amazing things for encouraging talented female athletes.
Also, the popularity of women’s wrestling in WWE paved the way for an ever-growing, independent scene in which female pros and amateurs alike could come to the fore. This is not only the case within the United States, since women’s wrestling has gained traction and popularity internationally. Japan is a prime example of a country in which women’s wrestling culture thrives – the scene is known for its extreme feats of athleticism and complex, engaging storylines.
Conclusion
It is undeniable that the movement in wrestling towards showcasing female athletes has done wonders not only for the sport of wrestling but for women around the world. Body positivity and confidence are crucial elements of wrestling that transfer well into everyday life.
In wrestling, we can see strong women, women who break the mold and embody women’s empowerment. It has been a long time coming but it’s safe to say that women’s wrestling is here to stay and will continue to empower women from all walks of life around the world.
If you have never checked out women’s wrestling, it’s about time you watched a show. We’d suggest that you brush up on your history and start by watching some of the old-school trailblazers from the Diva’s Revolution era.
Empowering Moments In The Ever-Growing World Of Women’s Wresting
