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34 Facts About Womens Wrestling History

Maurita Stillwell

Written by Maurita Stillwell

Published: 04 Oct 2024

Expert Verified Editorial Guidelines
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Source: Americanwomenswrestling.com

Women's wrestling history is packed with trailblazers, fierce rivalries, and unforgettable moments. Ever wondered how it all began? From the early days of carnival sideshows to the bright lights of WWE, women have fought hard for their place in the ring. Did you know that the first women's wrestling match in the U.S. took place in 1937? Or that the Fabulous Moolah held the Women's Championship for an astonishing 28 years? These athletes have broken barriers, shattered stereotypes, and inspired countless fans. Join us as we dive into 34 incredible facts that showcase the evolution, challenges, and triumphs of women's wrestling.

Key Takeaways:

  • Women's wrestling has a long and fascinating history, from its early days in the 1930s to the groundbreaking events of recent years, showcasing the talent and resilience of female athletes.
  • The future of women's wrestling looks bright, with new opportunities for emerging talent, dedicated promotions, and increased visibility through social media and video games, empowering female wrestlers to connect with fans and build their brands.
Table of Contents
01The Early Days of Women's Wrestling
02The Golden Era of Women's Wrestling
03The Attitude Era and Beyond
04The Women's Revolution
05International Impact
06Breaking Barriers
07The Future of Women's Wrestling
08Celebrating Women's Wrestling History

The Early Days of Women's Wrestling

Women's wrestling has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. Here are some fascinating facts about its origins and development.

  1. Women's wrestling began gaining popularity in the 1930s, with Mildred Burke emerging as one of the first female wrestling stars.
  2. Burke held the Women's World Championship for nearly 20 years, from 1937 to 1956.
  3. In the 1950s, women's wrestling was often featured in carnivals and sideshows, where it was seen as a novelty act.
  4. The first televised women's wrestling match aired in 1948, featuring June Byers and Mae Young.
  5. Mae Young, a pioneer in women's wrestling, continued to wrestle into her 80s, making her one of the oldest active wrestlers in history.

The Golden Era of Women's Wrestling

The 1980s and 1990s saw a surge in the popularity of women's wrestling, with many iconic wrestlers emerging during this period.

  1. The Fabulous Moolah, born Mary Lillian Ellison, held the Women's World Championship for an astonishing 28 years.
  2. Moolah was instrumental in training and promoting many female wrestlers, including Wendi Richter and Leilani Kai.
  3. Wendi Richter became a household name in the 1980s, thanks to her association with pop star Cyndi Lauper.
  4. The "Rock 'n' Wrestling Connection" between WWE and MTV helped bring women's wrestling into the mainstream.
  5. In 1993, Alundra Blayze (also known as Madusa) won the WWE Women's Championship, becoming one of the most prominent female wrestlers of the 1990s.

The Attitude Era and Beyond

The late 1990s and early 2000s, known as the Attitude Era, brought a new level of visibility and excitement to women's wrestling.

  1. Trish Stratus, a former fitness model, became one of the most successful female wrestlers of the Attitude Era.
  2. Lita, known for her high-flying moves, was a fan favorite and a four-time WWE Women's Champion.
  3. The first-ever women's main event on WWE's flagship show, Raw, took place in 2004, featuring Lita and Trish Stratus.
  4. Chyna, known as the "Ninth Wonder of the World," broke barriers by competing against male wrestlers and winning the Intercontinental Championship.
  5. The Women's Championship was rebranded as the Divas Championship in 2008, reflecting a shift in how female wrestlers were marketed.

The Women's Revolution

In recent years, women's wrestling has undergone a significant transformation, with a renewed focus on athleticism and storytelling.

  1. The "Four Horsewomen" of WWE—Charlotte Flair, Sasha Banks, Becky Lynch, and Bayley—have been at the forefront of this revolution.
  2. In 2016, WWE reintroduced the Women's Championship, retiring the Divas Championship.
  3. The first-ever women's Hell in a Cell match took place in 2016, featuring Sasha Banks and Charlotte Flair.
  4. WrestleMania 35 in 2019 marked the first time women headlined WWE's biggest event of the year, with Becky Lynch, Ronda Rousey, and Charlotte Flair competing in the main event.
  5. Becky Lynch became the first woman to hold both the Raw and SmackDown Women's Championships simultaneously, earning the nickname "The Man."

International Impact

Women's wrestling has also made significant strides on the global stage, with promotions around the world showcasing talented female wrestlers.

  1. Japan's All Japan Women's Pro-Wrestling (AJW) was founded in 1968 and became a powerhouse in women's wrestling.
  2. AJW produced legendary wrestlers like Manami Toyota, Aja Kong, and Bull Nakano.
  3. Mexico's Lucha Libre scene has a rich history of female wrestlers, known as "luchadoras."
  4. Luchadora Faby Apache has been a dominant force in Mexican wrestling for over two decades.
  5. The UK has seen a rise in women's wrestling, with promotions like Pro-Wrestling: EVE providing a platform for female talent.

Breaking Barriers

Women's wrestling continues to break barriers and set new standards for the sport.

  1. In 2018, WWE held its first all-women's pay-per-view event, Evolution.
  2. The Mae Young Classic, an annual tournament, has showcased female wrestlers from around the world since 2017.
  3. Tessa Blanchard made history in 2020 by becoming the first woman to win the Impact World Championship.
  4. AEW (All Elite Wrestling) has placed a strong emphasis on its women's division, featuring stars like Dr. Britt Baker and Hikaru Shida.
  5. Women's wrestling has also gained recognition in independent promotions, with stars like Jordynne Grace and Thunder Rosa making waves.

The Future of Women's Wrestling

The future looks bright for women's wrestling, with new talent emerging and opportunities expanding.

  1. WWE's Performance Center continues to train and develop the next generation of female wrestlers.
  2. Promotions like SHIMMER and Stardom are dedicated exclusively to women's wrestling, providing a platform for rising stars.
  3. Social media has allowed female wrestlers to connect with fans and build their brands like never before.
  4. Women's wrestling is now featured prominently in video games, with WWE 2K series including detailed female rosters and storylines.

Celebrating Women's Wrestling History

Women's wrestling has come a long way. From the early days of Mildred Burke to the groundbreaking achievements of Trish Stratus and Lita, the sport has seen incredible growth. These pioneers paved the way for today's stars like Becky Lynch and Charlotte Flair. Their dedication and passion have inspired countless fans and athletes.

The journey hasn't been easy. Women wrestlers faced numerous challenges, from limited opportunities to societal stereotypes. Yet, their resilience and determination have shattered barriers, making wrestling more inclusive and diverse.

As we celebrate these milestones, let's remember the importance of supporting and promoting women's wrestling. Their stories remind us that with hard work and perseverance, anything is possible. So next time you watch a match, think about the history and the trailblazers who made it all possible. Women's wrestling isn't just a sport; it's a testament to strength and courage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What year did women's wrestling first appear in the Olympics?
Women's wrestling made its Olympic debut in 2004 during the Athens Games. This milestone marked a significant step forward for gender equality in sports, showcasing the strength and skill of female wrestlers on a global stage.
Who was the first woman to win an Olympic gold medal in wrestling?
In 2004, at the Athens Olympics, Irina Merleni from Ukraine became the first woman to win an Olympic gold medal in wrestling. Her victory in the 48kg weight class was not just a personal triumph but also a historic moment for women in the sport.
Can you name a pioneering figure in women's wrestling history?
Mildred Burke stands out as a trailblazer in women's wrestling history. Dominating the ring from the 1930s through the 1950s, Burke was instrumental in popularizing women's professional wrestling in the United States and beyond. Her legacy includes being a world champion for nearly two decades.
How has women's wrestling evolved over the years?
Over the years, women's wrestling has transformed from a novelty act to a respected athletic competition. Early matches often faced societal skepticism and were limited in scope. Today, female wrestlers are celebrated athletes, competing in major international events and professional leagues, with their matches receiving equal billing alongside men's bouts.
What challenges have female wrestlers faced?
Female wrestlers have battled gender stereotypes, limited opportunities, and unequal pay. Despite these hurdles, their perseverance and talent have broken down barriers, leading to greater recognition and opportunities in the sport.
Are there any organizations dedicated to promoting women's wrestling?
Yes, several organizations work tirelessly to promote and support women's wrestling. Among them, the Women's Collegiate Wrestling Association (WCWA) and Wrestle Like A Girl aim to increase participation and visibility for female wrestlers, advocating for equality and empowerment through the sport.
What impact has women's wrestling had on society?
Women's wrestling has challenged traditional gender roles and inspired countless individuals. By showcasing strength, determination, and skill, female wrestlers have contributed to changing perceptions about women in sports and society, encouraging a new generation to pursue their passions without limits.

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