Natalya with Lou Thesz Award

A monumental achievement unfolded in the world of professional wrestling as Natalya, a veteran performer with nearly two decades in world Wrestling Entertainment, received the Lou Thesz Lifetime Achievement Award from the Cauliflower Alley Club. this marks the first time the award, established in 1965, has been presented to a female wrestler, signifying a pivotal moment in the sport’s history.

The Cauliflower Alley Club, a fraternal organization dedicated to celebrating the legacy of professional wrestling, annually bestows this honor upon individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary dedication and impact within the industry. The Lou Thesz Award specifically recognizes a lifetime of achievement and adherence to the principles of sportsmanship and respect that Thesz himself embodied.

A Legacy of Resilience and Skill

Natalya expressed her profound gratitude and the significance of this recognition in a recent social media post, stating that receiving the award held immense meaning given Lou thesz’s status as a foundational figure in wrestling. She emphasized the inherent challenges of the profession, noting that the wrestling business demands unrelenting perseverance.

In recent months, Natalya has expanded her wrestling engagements beyond WWE, competing in prominent self-reliant promotions such as the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) and Game Changer Wrestling (GCW). Notably, she participated in Josh Barnett’s Bloodsport, showcasing her versatility and willingness to test her skills in diverse environments. According to Statista, the global professional wrestling market was valued at approximately 1.76 billion U.S. dollars in 2023, demonstrating the sport’s significant economic impact and broad appeal.

Recent Performances and a Weekend of Competition

The weekend surrounding the award presentation was incredibly active for Natalya, which included a match at AAA’s TripleMania event in Mexico City, followed by a return to “WWE Raw” where she challenged Becky Lynch for the Women’s Intercontinental Championship. While unsuccessful in her title pursuit,the match reportedly led to a sling being used for support,even though she did not appear visibly injured when photographed with her Lou Thesz Award plaque.

Award Recipient Year
Lou Thesz Lifetime Achievement Award Natalya 2025

Did You Know? The Cauliflower Alley Club was founded by wrestlers and fans in 1965 to support the legacy and wellbeing of those within the professional wrestling community.

Pro Tip: Following prominent wrestling figures on social media is a great way to stay up to date with their schedules and achievements.