Nia Jax is riding a wave of momentum heading into Elimination Chamber, where she challenges Rhea Ripley for the Women’s World Championship. However, a recent live event match against Maxxine Dupri has ignited controversy, raising questions about both competitors and leaving fans divided.
In Oakland, California, Jax dominated the match against Alpha Academy’s manager, Maxxine Dupri. While Dupri’s charisma thrives outside the ring, her in-ring experience, or lack thereof, became a focal point.
The match’s climax saw Jax deliver her finisher, The Annihilator, on a seemingly unresponsive Dupri. This “nap-like” state during the move’s impact drew laughter and criticism from fans, reigniting discussions about Dupri’s ring skills and readiness for the main roster competition.
Social media buzzed with reactions. Some saw the match as a “battle of the worst female wrestlers alive,” echoing past criticisms of Jax’s in-ring work.
Others defended Jax, commending her safe execution of the finisher. Comparisons to past incidents, like Stacy Keibler’s botched move against Lita, further fueled the debate.
this is my new favorite maxxine clip i’m crying pic.twitter.com/PSGOzF4JYF
— jesse (@solsrvca) February 18, 2024
However, it’s crucial to acknowledge Jax’s undeniable improvement since her return last year. The Becky Lynch match on Day 1, arguably her career-best, showcased her power and agility.
Her impressive Royal Rumble performance solidified this progress. Many fans recognize this positive shift and see her with a legitimate shot at walking into WrestleMania 40 as champion.
Ultimately, this match, while riddled with criticism, serves as a springboard for discussion. It highlights the ever-evolving landscape of women’s wrestling, the challenges rookies face, and the potential for redemption and improvement.
As Nia Jax prepares for Elimination Chamber, the spotlight shifts back to her, and whether she roars to victory or faces another obstacle, one thing’s for sure: the conversation around her, and perhaps Maxxine Dupri too, is far from over.