Pro Wrestling Illustrated (PWI) has released their annual list ranking the top female wrestlers in the world, known as the PWI Women’s 250. This year’s list covers the period from October 1, 2023, to September 30, 2024, and ranks wrestlers based on in-ring achievement, influence, technical ability, competition, and activity. The list has seen some surprising upsets, with All Elite Wrestling (AEW) dominating the Top 10 over WWE.
Toni Storm has been named the No. 1 female wrestler in the world by PWI, making her the first wrestler from AEW to achieve this honor. The publication praised Storm’s charisma on the microphone and in front of the camera, as well as her in-ring skills, calling her a “phenomenon.” Other AEW wrestlers in the Top 10 include Willow Nightingale, Mariah May, and Athena. Former NJPW Strong Women’s Champion Stephanie Vaquer, who recently signed with WWE, is ranked No. 5.
While AEW has a strong presence in the Top 10, WWE only has two wrestlers listed—Rhea Ripley and Bayley. Jordynne Grace of Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA) holds the No. 2 spot, having made multiple appearances in WWE during the ranking period. Other wrestlers in the Top 10 include Maika from Stardom and Saree, a free agent who previously wrestled for WWE NXT. AEW may dominate the Top 10, but WWE still holds a significant presence when the list extends to the Top 20.
The Top 20 female wrestlers also include WWE Superstars such as NXT Women’s Champion Roxanne Perez, World Women’s Champion Liv Morgan, Becky Lynch, and Lyra Valkyria. AEW’s representation in the Top 20 is limited to Mina Shirakawa. Other wrestlers in the Top 20 come from various promotions, including NJPW, TNA, True Japan Pro-Wrestling, and Major League Wrestling. While AEW shows strength in the Top 10, WWE continues to dominate when looking at the broader landscape of female wrestling.
The PWI Women’s 250 highlights the talents and accomplishments of female wrestlers from across the globe, recognizing their contributions to the industry. The list reflects the diversity and depth of talent in women’s wrestling, with wrestlers from different promotions and backgrounds making their mark. While AEW may have made a strong showing in this year’s rankings, WWE’s influence and legacy still hold weight when considering the overall landscape of professional wrestling.
Overall, the PWI Women’s 250 serves as a testament to the skill, dedication, and perseverance of female wrestlers who have excelled in the industry. From Toni Storm’s groundbreaking achievement as the No. 1 wrestler in the world to the diverse representation of talent in the Top 20, the list showcases the incredible abilities of women who have made their mark in the world of professional wrestling. As the industry continues to evolve and grow, the PWI Women’s 250 provides a valuable snapshot of the current landscape and the impressive achievements of female wrestlers around the world.
For fans of professional wrestling, the PWI Women’s 250 offers a comprehensive look at the top female competitors and celebrates their contributions to the sport. With a mix of established stars and up-and-coming talent, the list highlights the extraordinary skill and passion that female wrestlers bring to the ring. As the industry continues to evolve and expand, the PWI Women’s 250 serves as a reminder of the incredible talent and diversity within the world of professional wrestling, showcasing the best and brightest in the business.
