For decades, women in WWE were often limited to secondary roles, primarily as eye candy or managers, with matches that lasted just a few minutes. However, over the past two decades, WWE has undergone a transformation that has fundamentally reshaped the role of women in the company, turning the women’s division into a compelling and vital part of its programming. This journey from the “Diva Era” to the rise of the “Four Horsewomen,” culminating in main events at WrestleMania, symbolizes a larger cultural shift toward equality, empowerment, and athletic excellence.
In the late 1990s and early 2000s, WWE (formerly WWF) prioritized women’s looks over their wrestling abilities, a period known as the “Diva Era” where matches were often short and gimmicky. While talented women like Trish Stratus, Lita, Chyna, and Jacqueline proved their wrestling prowess, they were usually cast in roles outside of wrestling, such as valets or managers.
The turning point came in the mid-2010s when WWE acknowledged that audiences, particularly younger fans, craved more competitive female matches. The “Divas Revolution” of 2015 marked a new era, led by the “Four Horsewomen” — Sasha Banks, Charlotte Flair, Becky Lynch, and Bayley. These women demanded respect for their athleticism and showcased their skills with longer matches and intricate storylines.
In 2016, WWE retired the term “Divas” in favor of “Superstars” for both men and women, symbolizing a shift towards equality. The first-ever Women’s Hell in a Cell match between Charlotte Flair and Sasha Banks showcased women delivering the same hard-hitting, emotional matches as men, reinforcing WWE’s commitment to women’s wrestling.
A historic moment arrived at WrestleMania 35 in 2019, where women headlined the event for the first time. Ronda Rousey, Charlotte Flair, and Becky Lynch competed in a Triple Threat match for the Raw and SmackDown Women’s Championships. This wasn’t just a match; it was a testament to the evolution of women in WWE, reflecting athlete accomplishments and compelling narratives.
The Four Horsewomen played a critical role in redefining what it meant to be a female wrestler. Each woman brought unique attributes: Flair’s legacy, Lynch’s charisma, Banks’ technical skills, and Bayley’s emotional depth. Their success has paved the way for future stars like Bianca Belair, Raquel Rodriguez, Asuka, Rhea Ripley, and Liv Morgan.
WWE’s strides in elevating women’s wrestling have influenced the broader industry, inspiring promotions like AEW and Impact Wrestling to bolster their women’s divisions. Today, women’s wrestling is a vital part of most promotions, reflecting a cultural shift toward empowering women across various domains.
As new talents like Rhea Ripley, Io Shirai, and Raquel González emerge, the future of women in WWE looks bright. The company continues to prioritize giving women more screen time, better storylines, and significant roles in high-profile matches. The rise of women in WWE signifies a lasting change in the perception of women in professional wrestling, ensuring the next generation will benefit from the foundation laid by pioneers like Stratus, Lita, Banks, Flair, and Lynch.
Ultimately, the legacy of WWE’s women will not only be the records they shatter or the titles they claim, but the pathways they’ve created for future generations to view WWE as a place where anyone, regardless of gender, can achieve greatness. The rise of women in WWE is just the beginning of their inspiring journey.
