Each year, WrestleMania’s undercard often surprises fans, and WrestleMania 41 was no exception. While the spotlight was on world title matches and historic rivalries, it was the WWE Women’s World Championship match that truly captivated audiences on Night 2. The contest featured champion Iyo Sky defending her title against formidable challengers Bianca Belair and Rhea Ripley, and it left an indelible mark on the event.
This encounter not only stood out as the evening’s best match but is also a strong contender for the highlight of WrestleMania 41. It shared the stage with another significant three-way clash involving CM Punk, Seth Rollins, and Roman Reigns, a match enriched by the intriguing Paul Heyman storyline. However, the women’s bout was an explosive spectacle of athleticism that spoke volumes. Simply put, these formidable competitors delivered a remarkable performance.
Despite skepticism regarding whether Iyo Sky would retain her title in Las Vegas, she dazzled fans with her resilience and aerial prowess. The moment she executed a breathtaking moonsault to secure her victory, she transformed a career milestone into a historic WrestleMania moment that will be referenced for years to come.
An Exceptional Showcase of Talent
A Match for the Ages at WrestleMania 41
Watch the match highlights here
Belair and Ripley, even in their defeat, showcased some of their most impressive in-ring abilities during the match. Their exchanges displayed such intensity that they resembled an all-out street brawl at times. Ultimately, it was Sky’s artistic flair that triumphed, culminating in a spectacular finish that underscored the strength of the WWE Women’s division—a fitting prelude to WWE’s upcoming Evolution event, which will be the second all-women’s premium live event (PLE) set for July.
Emerging stars like Tiffany Stratton, who previously impressed on Night 1, are establishing themselves as foundational talents within the roster. With well-known names such as Charlotte Flair and Becky Lynch returning to action, Sky’s monumental win might just catapult her into the main event spotlight of the highly anticipated women’s event. This triple threat demonstrated how talent can shine, even in the absence of extensive backstory or rivalry, proving that every wrestler, particularly women, brings unmatched passion to the ring during significant moments. The comparison to the men’s World Title matches was unkind to the male competitors.
Perhaps the most touching moment of the night was Iyo Sky’s exuberant celebration following her grueling battle. While many aspects of wrestling are scripted, the authenticity of her emotions was crystal clear. In a world often bound by narratives, she found herself overcome with joy, knowing she had secured her legacy in the history books. Though Belair and Ripley stood humbled, their performances were anything but diminished. Each competitor fulfilled their role with excellence, and Iyo Sky is poised to become an even larger fan favorite after such a stunning display.
Will Belair and Ripley Engage in a Major Feud?
Intensity Escalated Between the Two at WrestleMania
The intense back-and-forth battle between Ripley and Belair added a captivating subplot to the championship contest. These two outstanding athletes unleashed their full arsenal, spectacularly focusing their energies against each other as the match progressed, allowing Sky to capitalize and secure her victory.
At this juncture, it seems Sky will move forward after her victory, leaving Belair and Ripley to contend with an intriguing question: Could they embark on a feud stemming from the title loss? Both are accustomed to pinnacle positions in the division, and their rivalry could invigorate their championship ambitions as they face off against one another. The current WWE main roster is burgeoning with emerging female talents, including Stratton and Intercontinental Champion Lyra Valkyrie, reinforcing a bright future for women’s wrestling in the organization.
Veteran performers like Belair and Ripley find themselves in an excellent position to traverse meaningful storylines that need not revolve around title shots. A prolonged feud between the two could prove significant and enriching for fans and the division alike. This dynamic only strengthens the WWE narrative while spotlighting a fresh era of women wrestlers.
What’s Next for Iyo Sky?
NXT Women’s Champion Stephanie Vaquer Issues a Challenge
Watch the RAW challenge here
Immediately following WrestleMania, Iyo Sky didn’t get a moment to rest. The newly crowned NXT Champion, Stephanie Vaquer, swiftly challenged her for the title on WWE’s RAW. Vaquer, celebrated for her ascendant trajectory since joining from All Elite Wrestling, is positioned as another jewel within WWE’s impressive women’s division.
Their match garnered acclaim, quickly labeled as an instant classic, although it faced disruption from an unexpected invasion by NXT female talents. Fans are eager to see these two athletes share the ring again. For Sky, her current title reign bears the potential to be transformative, and it’s evident that Triple H and WWE’s creative team have high expectations for her success. After all, a victory over accomplished names at WrestleMania only elevates her status further.
While WrestleMania 41 delivered unforgettable moments, it also sparked debates among fans—such as Jey Uso’s defeat of the previously unbeatable Gunther and the questionable finish to John Cena’s match against Cody Rhodes. However, the Women’s World Championship bout, particularly Iyo Sky’s memorable performance, resonated deeply with fans, showcasing women’s wrestling at its finest. In an event often met with criticism, these female competitors proved their mettle and set a new standard for excellence.