Becky Lynch Vs Charlotte Flair Vs Carmella: WWE Rivalry
The WWE universe has witnessed countless rivalries, but few have captured the intensity and drama of the feud between Becky Lynch, Charlotte Flair, and Carmella. This trio of supremely talented women has delivered memorable matches and compelling storylines that have kept fans on the edge of their seats. Let's dive deep into the history, key moments, and lasting impact of this epic rivalry.
The Genesis of the Feud
The seeds of this rivalry were sown in the SmackDown Women's Division, where each of these superstars was vying for the top spot. Becky Lynch, initially seen as an underdog, had been steadily building momentum with her incredible in-ring skills and undeniable charisma. Charlotte Flair, the daughter of the legendary Ric Flair, was already a multi-time champion, carrying the weight of her family's legacy and exuding natural athleticism. Carmella, with her "Princess of Staten Island" persona, brought a different dynamic to the mix, using her cunning and resourcefulness to climb the ranks.
Initially, Becky and Charlotte were allies, a formidable tag team that dominated the division. However, the dynamics shifted dramatically when Charlotte was added to the SmackDown Women's Championship match at SummerSlam in 2018, which originally featured Becky and then-champion Carmella. Charlotte won the match, pinning Becky, and that was the turning point, sparking a firestorm of animosity. Becky's frustration boiled over, leading to a vicious attack on Charlotte after the match, marking the beginning of her transformation into "The Man." This betrayal ignited a personal and intense feud between Becky and Charlotte, with Carmella often finding herself caught in the crossfire.
Key Moments and Matches
The rivalry between these three women produced several unforgettable moments and matches that have become etched in WWE history. Let's relive some of the highlights:
SummerSlam 2018
As mentioned earlier, SummerSlam 2018 was the catalyst for the entire feud. Charlotte's unexpected victory infuriated Becky, who felt she deserved the championship opportunity. The post-match attack cemented Becky's heel turn, although the fans largely sided with her, recognizing her years of hard work and perceived mistreatment by the WWE management. This night marked the birth of "The Man," a persona that would catapult Becky to unprecedented levels of stardom.
Hell in a Cell 2018
Becky Lynch captured the SmackDown Women's Championship from Charlotte Flair at Hell in a Cell in a brutal and hard-fought match. The intensity and physicality on display were a testament to the animosity between the two. This victory was a significant milestone for Becky, solidifying her as a top star in the women's division. The match itself was a showcase of both women's incredible athleticism and storytelling abilities, with every move and expression conveying the deep-seated hatred they had for each other.
Evolution 2018
Becky and Charlotte faced each other in a Last Woman Standing match at Evolution, WWE's first-ever all-women's pay-per-view. This match was an absolute war, with both women pushing themselves to their limits. They used chairs, tables, and ladders in a desperate attempt to incapacitate each other. The match was a brutal and captivating spectacle, demonstrating the resilience and determination of both superstars. Ultimately, Becky emerged victorious, further cementing her dominance in the division.
Royal Rumble 2019
While Carmella wasn't directly involved in the match, the Royal Rumble 2019 played a crucial role in the ongoing narrative. Becky lost her SmackDown Women's Championship earlier in the night to Asuka but later entered the Royal Rumble match as a replacement for an injured Lana. She went on to win the Royal Rumble, last eliminating Charlotte Flair, earning herself a spot in the main event of WrestleMania. This victory was a defining moment in Becky's career, setting the stage for her historic WrestleMania appearance.
WrestleMania 35
The culmination of Becky's journey came at WrestleMania 35, where she faced Raw Women's Champion Ronda Rousey and SmackDown Women's Champion Charlotte Flair in a Winner Takes All Triple Threat match. This was the first time women had ever main-evented WrestleMania, a testament to the impact and popularity of Becky, Charlotte, and the entire women's division. Becky emerged victorious, pinning Ronda Rousey to become a double champion, holding both the Raw and SmackDown Women's Championships. This victory was a landmark achievement, solidifying Becky's place as one of the biggest stars in WWE history.
Carmella's Role in the Rivalry
While the primary focus was often on the Becky-Charlotte feud, Carmella played a significant role in the overall storyline. She initially held the SmackDown Women's Championship, defeating Charlotte for the title after cashing in her Money in the Bank contract. This victory added another layer of complexity to the rivalry, as both Becky and Charlotte sought to take the title from her. Carmella's character, known for her cunning and opportunistic tactics, made her a compelling foil for the more straightforward and athletic styles of Becky and Charlotte.
Carmella's interactions with Becky and Charlotte often involved mind games and strategic maneuvers. She would use her wit and intelligence to try and stay one step ahead of her opponents, creating chaos and exploiting their weaknesses. While she may not have always been the strongest or most athletic competitor, Carmella's ability to manipulate situations and capitalize on opportunities made her a formidable threat.
The Impact and Legacy
The rivalry between Becky Lynch, Charlotte Flair, and Carmella had a profound impact on the WWE women's division and the wrestling industry as a whole. It helped elevate women's wrestling to new heights, showcasing the incredible talent and athleticism of these superstars. The feud also demonstrated the power of compelling storytelling, with its twists, turns, and emotional depth resonating with fans around the world.
Becky Lynch's transformation into "The Man" was a direct result of this rivalry. Her newfound attitude and unwavering confidence captivated audiences, turning her into one of the most popular and marketable stars in WWE. Charlotte Flair continued to solidify her legacy as one of the greatest female wrestlers of all time, consistently delivering exceptional performances and raising the bar for women's wrestling. Carmella proved her worth as a valuable member of the roster, showcasing her versatility and ability to connect with audiences.
The success of this rivalry paved the way for future generations of female wrestlers, inspiring them to pursue their dreams and break down barriers in the industry. It also helped change the perception of women's wrestling, proving that women could be just as captivating and compelling as their male counterparts. The legacy of Becky Lynch, Charlotte Flair, and Carmella will continue to be felt for years to come, as they have left an indelible mark on the world of professional wrestling.
What Made This Rivalry Special?
Several factors contributed to the unique appeal of this rivalry:
Compelling Characters
Each of these women brought a distinct personality and character to the table. Becky's underdog-turned-rebel persona, Charlotte's natural-athlete-with-a-legacy persona, and Carmella's cunning-opportunist persona created a dynamic mix that resonated with fans.
In-Ring Chemistry
The three women had incredible chemistry in the ring, consistently delivering high-quality matches that were both physically demanding and emotionally engaging.
Storytelling
The storyline was well-crafted and full of twists and turns, keeping fans invested and eager to see what would happen next.
Historical Significance
The rivalry played a significant role in the evolution of women's wrestling, culminating in the first-ever women's main event at WrestleMania.
In conclusion, the feud between Becky Lynch, Charlotte Flair, and Carmella was a defining chapter in WWE history. It showcased the incredible talent and potential of women's wrestling, inspiring fans and paving the way for future generations of female superstars. The matches, the moments, and the memories created during this rivalry will continue to be celebrated for years to come.