The field for the Mae Young Classic is quickly taking shape.
WWE.com has announced the next four entrants into the 2018 Mae Young Classic. Io Shirai, Nicole Matthews, Jinny and former “American Ninja Warrior” competitor Kacy Catanzaro join Rhea Ripley and former Diva Kaitlyn.
Io Shirai
Io Shirai is one of the biggest names in women’s wrestling nowadays since her debut in 2007. She recently debuted for WWE at an event in Tokyo on June 30th. Shirai is a legend in her old promotion, Stardom, where she shined alongside last year’s winner Kairi Sane. Shirai has held belts such as the World of Stardom Championship, Artist of Stardom Champion, Goddess of Stardom, and became their first Grand Slam Champion. Her wrestling style is incredible, with a wide array of high-flying moves to go along with a variety of suplexes. Her moonsault is a thing of beauty. Shirai has to be considered one of the favourites in the 2018 tournament.
Nicole Matthews
Nicole Matthews, an independent veteran from Vancouver, has competed in promotions all around the world. Canada, USA, Europe, Japan and Australia are just some of the countries she’s wrestled in. She’s best known for her work in Shimmer and Elite Canadian Championship Wrestling. PWI ranked her at #16 in the best 50 womens wrestlers in 2015 & 2016. She has competed in NXT before, facing Asuka in singles competition. She’s a treat to watch, and us here at Win Column Sports always have a soft spot for Canadians.
Jinny
Jinny is certainly no stranger to WWE; most recently, she competed in Axxess during WrestleMania weekend, as well as working during the UK Championship special. She’s recently signed with WWE full time, and will be working on the United Kingdom Brand. Previously, her most notable work has been at Progress Wrestling, where she has become the current Women’s Champion. She’s also wrestled notable names such as Toni Storm, Nixon Newell (also known as Tegan Knox), Dakota Kai, and Mercedes Martinez. Jinny could be a cornerstone of the UK Brand, and should have a great showing with a long potential run in then cards.
Kacy Catanzaro
Finally, Kacy Catanzaro will be making her in-ring debut at the tournament. WWE.com reports that her otherworldly athletic abilities give her a boost, despite her relative greenness between the ropes. A former Division I gymnast and American Ninja Warrior competitor, she’s also been listed twice on Sports Illustrated “Fittest 50” for female athletes. We always love seeing people follow their dreams, and we at Win Column hope that Catanzaro has an incredible debut. Good luck, Kacy!
With the current field at six competitors, WWE has a long way to go before August. Be sure to follow Win Column Sports on Facebook and Twitter for all the breaking updates. Who else do you want to see join the field? Who’s your favourite now?
Be sure to let us know!
Last 5!
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- Tessa Blanchard Commits Long-Term to IMPACT Wrestling
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