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Former Staff

The Importance of the Sherri Martel Classic

Wrestlemania season is upon us, and as the world prepares to descend on Arlington, Texas, smaller federations are looking to capitalize on the influx of fans desperate for wrestling. In a weekend that sees Supercard of Honor, Part Six of Joey Janela’s Spring Break on top of Mania itself, the April 2nd weekend is shaping up to be jam-packed.

Booker T’s Reality Promotion is also getting in on the action. Late last year, the Texas promotion revealed its plans to host an all-women’s tournament, the Sherri Martel Classic. With Wrestlemania 38 rapidly approaching, it has been confirmed that AQA, a recent ROW graduate who signed with AEW, will compete in the tournament on April 2nd in Irving, Texas.

As an AWA and WWF Women’s Champion Sherri Martel was a wrestler and valet synonymous with the Hulkamania era and was responsible for some of its most memorable moments. Her name adds instant credibility to the tournament that bears her name. However, the usage of Martel’s name is about more than his wrestling credentials. Sherri played a pivotal role in ROW founder Booker T’s career, managing him and his brother Stevie Ray as part of Harlem Heat. Clearly, the classic is Booker’s way of honoring Martel, who guided Booker through his early career. 

This is a massive opportunity for all the women involved. You only have to look as far as the Mae Young classic to see how tournaments can turn women into stars. Rhea Ripley, Bianca Belair, Marti Belle, and Deonna Purrazzo all appeared and made the most of their opportunity. The Sherri Martel Classic may provide the platform for female wrestlers that have been absent since 2018.

In addition, it’s a terrific opportunity to acquire visibility during Wrestlemania. For that weekend, Arlington will be hosting the wrestling world. There will be a substantial international presence clambering for wrestlers. It is the perfect time for up-and-coming wrestlers to showcase their skills and impress fans outside their usual market. However, with this fervor comes added pressure. Athletes participating in the Sherri Martel Classic will definitely bring their A-game.

What are your thoughts on the Sherri Martel Classic? Who do you want to see? What promotions are you checking out on Mania weekend? Let us know. We love hearing from you.

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