Nikki Bella has praised Becky Lynch as a leading figure in WWE, calling her one of the greatest superstars ever as they prepare to face off at the Clash event in Paris. Bella will challenge Lynch for the WWE Women’s Intercontinental Championship, highlighting Lynch’s rise despite earlier challenges in her career.
Early Career Challenges for Becky Lynch Compared to Other WWE Stars
In an interview with Sports Illustrated, Bella reflected on Lynch’s early years in WWE, when her talent was somewhat overshadowed by notable competitors like Charlotte Flair and Sasha Banks. Bella explained how both Flair and Banks were major draws, with Banks gaining attention after her celebrated NXT match against Bayley and Flair focusing the spotlight with the Divas Title.
I did see potential, but I’ll admit it was definitely overshadowed. You couldn’t help but see what Charlotte Flair was doing, and then Sasha Banks. They were such standouts. Sasha was coming off of that iconic match in NXT with Bayley, so your eyes were really on her. And then Charlotte Flair came in… and there was a lot of focus on her for the Divas Title.
— Nikki Bella
Becky Lynch’s Drive Fueled by Being Overshadowed
Bella suggested that being in the shadow of other stars gave Lynch a unique motivation and fire to prove herself, which ultimately elevated her career. She considers Lynch’s journey as part of what makes her a standout superstar in WWE’s history.
Don’t tell her this, but I think she’s one of the greatest superstars ever. When some of us are overshadowed and held back, it gives us a certain kind of fire to prove ourselves… It’s almost like you need that story to give you a certain drive and motivation, because when you’re already proven out of the gate, where do you go from there?
— Nikki Bella
Parallels Between Nikki Bella and Becky Lynch’s Character Evolutions
Bella also compared her own transformation into “Fearless Nikki” to Lynch’s emergence as “The Man,” linking both evolutions to significant jumps in their WWE careers. Lynch’s persona helped propel her into the main event spotlight, culminating in her headline match at WrestleMania 35.
I didn’t start as Fearless Nikki. She came over time and the minute I became her, that’s what took me to the next level. Same with The Man. When Becky Lynch finally became The Man, that just took off.
— Nikki Bella
Impact of the Divas Era Versus the Current Generation
Bella noted the difference in opportunities between the Divas Era, when she and her peers competed, and Lynch’s era, which saw a broader platform for athletes. She expressed confidence that the performers of her generation would have excelled if given the same chances, crediting WWE executive Triple H with supporting the newer generation to reach their potential.
The upcoming match at Clash not only highlights a championship contest but also serves as a testament to Becky Lynch’s influence and importance in WWE. The rivalry carries significance for the evolution of women’s wrestling and underscores ongoing changes in the division. With Bella’s respectful praise and Lynch’s proven success, this event is set to attract considerable attention.
