Breaking barriers: Black women in pro wrestling

On a crisp Thursday morning, a small but eager audience gathered in the basement of Elmore Chapel, Room 9, for a presentation titled “The History of Black Women in Professional Wrestling.”

Led by Dr. Andrea E. Key and Dr. Robert Greene II, the event offered a deep dive into a hidden chapter of sports history, celebrating resilience, athleticism and cultural impact. The presentation began with a bold assertion: Professional wrestling, often dismissed as mere entertainment, is a complex blend of athleticism, storytelling and cultural commentary.

Greene addressed the scripted nature of wrestling. “Yes, it’s predetermined,” he said, “but don’t mistake that for a lack of skill. Simulating combat, telling a story in the ring, and connecting with an audience requires a unique kind of artistry.”

Key took the audience on a journey through time, starting with the 1950s pioneers. Women like Ethel Johnson and Babs Wingo, who wrestled six nights a week in arenas across the South and Midwest, were among the first Black women to break into the industry.

A 1952 Jet Magazine article highlighted their groundbreaking achievements, noting they earned $300 a week, a significant sum at the time.

“These women weren’t just athletes,” Key said. “They were trailblazers, navigating a world that often dismissed them because of their race and gender.”

The presentation also spotlighted the challenges Black women faced in wrestling during the 1970s and 1980s, when the industry was dominated by figures like The Fabulous Moolah. While Moolah is credited with popularizing women’s wrestling, her legacy is complicated by allegations of exploitation and control over other female wrestlers.

“She was the Hulk Hogan of women’s wrestling,” Greene said. “But her influence wasn’t always positive.”

The tone shifted as the discussion moved into the modern era, focusing on hope and progress. Clips of contemporary stars like Bianca Belair and Jade Cargill lit up the screen, showcasing a new generation of Black women redefining what it means to be a wrestler.

Belair, a former track and field star, and Cargill, a former basketball player, bring athleticism and charisma, making them fan favorites.

“These women aren’t just wrestlers,” Key said. “They’re cultural icons, representing the best of Black excellence.”

The event also highlighted the intersection of wrestling and Black popular culture.

From Bianca Belair’s WrestleMania entrance, which paid homage to her HBCU roots, to Jade Cargill’s nod to her Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority, the presentation underscored how wrestling has become a platform for celebrating Black identity.

“Wrestling isn’t just about what happens in the ring,” Greene said. “It’s about the stories we tell and the cultures we represent.”

The audience, a mix of students, faculty, and wrestling enthusiasts, left the room buzzing with excitement.

“I had no idea how much Black women have shaped this industry,” one attendee said. “This was eye-opening.”

As the event concluded, Key and Greene issued a call to action to continue uncovering and celebrating the stories of Black women in wrestling.

“This is just the beginning,” Key said. “There’s so much more to explore, so many more stories to tell.”