The late 2000s was a transformative period for women’s professional wrestling. While WWE was still referring to its female competitors as “Divas” and limiting their match times, TNA (Total Nonstop Action Wrestling) was revolutionizing the scene by treating women’s wrestling as a priority.
According to Dutch Mantell, a former creative team member at TNA between 2003 and 2009, the promotion’s booking of women not only put WWE to shame but also increased television ratings.
Mantell, who played a crucial role in shaping TNA’s women’s division, revealed on Sportskeeda Wrestling’s Smack Talk that he gave female wrestlers the freedom to shine, which led to some incredible matches.
The rivalry between Awesome Kong and Gail Kim, in particular, is widely regarded as one of the best in TNA history. The two legends were eventually inducted into the promotion’s Hall of Fame in 2021 and 2016, respectively.
What set TNA apart from WWE during this period was its willingness to invest in women’s wrestling. While WWE was content with showcasing short, gimmicky matches featuring its female talent, TNA was committed to providing a platform for women to showcase their skills and athleticism.
Mantell believed that women’s wrestling could be a major draw, and his vision paid off when Gail Kim and Awesome Kong locked up, delivering the highest-rated match on the show until Hulk Hogan’s arrival.
Mantell’s approach was met with initial resistance from some members of the TNA creative team, but he persisted, convinced that women’s wrestling could be a game-changer. His persistence paid off, as the women’s division began to thrive, drawing in new fans and reinvigorating the promotion.
TNA’s success in promoting women’s wrestling during this period serves as a testament to the power of innovative thinking and risk-taking in professional wrestling. By giving female wrestlers the opportunity to shine, Mantell and TNA proved that women’s wrestling could be just as charming and entertaining as men’s wrestling.
In hindsight, it is clear that TNA was ahead of its time in recognizing the potential of women’s wrestling. The promotion’s commitment to showcasing talented female wrestlers like Awesome Kong and Gail Kim paved the way for future generations of female grapplers. As the world of professional wrestling continues to evolve, it is essential to acknowledge the pioneering efforts of promoters like Dutch Mantell, who