The wrestling world has a fresh Women’s World Champion and her path to the top was paved with a deliberate choice. Austrian wrestler Thekla, who recently captured the AEW Women’s World Championship defeating Kris Statlander earlier this month, revealed that a fundamental disagreement with the creative control offered by WWE led her to All Elite Wrestling.
Speaking on the “Talk Is Jericho” podcast, Thekla articulated her desire for autonomy as a key factor in her decision. “When I first started watching WWE and learning about how things are done over there, I reckon generally, I didn’t love the idea of not doing things my way,” she explained. “Everybody knows that you’ve got to drop your name, and have to do whatever somebody tells you. I’m not great with authority.” The burgeoning star saw AEW as a refreshing alternative, a promotion that resonated with her independent spirit.
“When AEW started, I thought, ‘Okay, something new,’” Thekla continued. “I love a good underdog and I just liked the melting pot of people who started there, and it just had more of a punk feel.” This “punk feel” and the promise of creative freedom were enough to set her sights on Jacksonville, Florida, even early in her professional career. She confessed to having set a goal to join AEW almost immediately after the promotion’s inception six years ago, fueled by what she described as a “cocky attitude.”
Thekla’s journey to AEW wasn’t immediate. Before arriving in the United States, she honed her skills in Japan’s STARDOM promotion, becoming a successful singles competitor and a member of the Donna Del Mondo faction, a group currently featuring WWE star Giulia. Her time in STARDOM provided a strong foundation for her success, and she quickly translated that experience into gold upon joining AEW.
Following her championship win, Thekla’s reign is already facing potential challenges. A returning Thunder Rosa appears to be her first contender, as hinted at during the February 11th edition of “AEW Dynamite.” However, Statlander, the wrestler she defeated for the title, is as well expected to seek a rematch, setting the stage for compelling future matchups.
Thekla’s story is a testament to the growing appeal of AEW as a destination for wrestlers seeking a different kind of environment. While WWE remains the industry leader, AEW’s emphasis on in-ring talent and creative input is clearly attracting athletes who prioritize control over their own narratives.
What comes next for Thekla remains to be seen, but her championship victory and the brewing rivalries suggest a promising future for the new AEW Women’s World Champion. Fans can expect a competitive landscape as she navigates her first title defense and beyond.
What are your thoughts on Thekla’s championship win and her comments about WWE? Share your opinions in the comments below and be sure to share this article with your fellow wrestling fans!
(H/T to Wrestling Inc. For the transcription.)
