The Evolution of Women’s Wrestling in WWE: From Filler Matches to Main Events

Is it true that in WWE, women were always treated as second-class superstars, relegated to simple, less-than-stimulating roles? A deep dive into WWE’s history of women’s wrestling reveals a period where women were indeed overshadowed, eventually emerging into the spotlight with the likes of AJ Lee and the Four Horsewomen.

Women's Wrestling in WWE: A Historical Overview

The Women’s championship in WWE traces back to 1956 when The Fabulous Moolah held the title. Over the years, the WWE's treatment of women wrestlers fluctuated dramatically. From 1990 to 1993, the women’s championship was deactivated, and in 1995, a champion left the WWE, leading to a six-and-a-half-year absence of a women’s champion.

The 90s and Early 2000s: A Dark Period

During the late 1990s and early 2000s, women’s wrestling was sidelined, with the WWE preferring to focus on gimmicky matches like evening gown and bra and panties contests. The introduction of the term "Diva" and the "butterfly belt" in 2008 underscored how far WWE had fallen in recognizing the potential of its female wrestlers.

Rebels and Pioneers: Lita, Trish Stratus, and Chyna

Before WWE began to fully integrate women into their main roster, a few pioneers fought for equal treatment. Legends like Lita and Trish Stratus showcased their skills, forming strong feuds and performing memorable matches. Chyna, while initially successful, eventually left WWE after a contentious public departure.

AJ Lee: A Breakthrough in 2010

Things began to change in 2010 with the rise of AJ Lee, who joined WWE through their developmental promotion NXT. Unlike past women wrestlers, AJ Lee brought a fresh and relatable approach, blending charisma with skill. Despite initial skepticism, AJ Lee became the first woman to significantly move merchandise since Trish and Lita's retirement.

The Four Horsewomen: A New Era Begins

Triple H, with the help of Sara Amato, reinvigorated the WWE’s developmental promotion, leading to the ascension of the Four Horsewomen: Charlotte Flair, Becky Lynch, Bayley, and Sasha Banks. These wrestlers provided a strong contrast, bringing energy and authenticity that had been lacking. This shift marked a significant change in WWE's attitude towards women’s wrestling, leading to the retirement of the "butterfly belt" and the unacceptable term "Diva."

The Post-2016 Era: Improvements and Challenges

Since 2016, WWE has made considerable strides in booking women in more legitimate roles. While the improvements are not uniform and still face challenges, the evolution towards more engaging and dangerous matches for women’s wrestling is undeniable.