Dustin Rhodes, a veteran of professional wrestling currently recovering from double knee replacement surgery, recently revealed his list of the top female wrestlers. Despite Mercedes Mone‘s strong reputation in AEW, Rhodes placed Charlotte Flair at the top of his rankings, followed by Mone, Timeless Toni Storm, Sherry Martell, and Rhea Ripley. His list highlights those he considers the most impactful female stars in the current wrestling scene.
Women have significantly reshaped the wrestling industry over the last decade, often headlining events and receiving more main event opportunities. Rhodes, with his extensive experience, has closely observed these developments and the standout performers.
“Charlotte, Mercedes, Sherry Martell, Toni Storm, and Rhea Ripley,” he wrote. —Dustin Rhodes
Mercedes Mone Faces Criticism Despite Championship Success
Mercedes Mone holds an impressive nine championships including the TBS title, cementing her status as a key figure in AEW. However, some wrestling veterans have expressed skepticism about her progress since joining AEW. During an appearance on The Stevie Richards Show, Richards criticized Mone’s in-ring abilities, suggesting they have declined since her departure from WWE.
“I don’t understand how Mercedes Mone has gotten worse since she got in AEW. This proves that the WWE machine can really protect people’s weaknesses. And then when you get to a place like AEW (…) and how many WWE wrestlers have gone over there and actually looked better? This includes Christian Cage and Edge. There are not many who look up to par or better after they leave, and that’s just a testament that WWE will make you believe and shove it down your throat that these people are stars,” he said. —Stevie Richards
Richards contrasted Mone’s situation with other WWE veterans such as Christian Cage and Edge, highlighting how few wrestlers maintain or improve their performance outside WWE’s system.
Impact of Rhodes’s Ranking on the Women’s Division
Rhodes’s endorsement of Charlotte Flair as the top female wrestler underscores her continued influence and prominence in professional wrestling. His ranking reflects important shifts in recognition among female performers in AEW and beyond. The debate around Mercedes Mone’s abilities may influence future fan and industry perspectives as she defends her TBS title.
As Rhodes recovers, his input remains valued in wrestling circles, and his opinions may shape ongoing discussions regarding the direction and talent in the women’s division. The contrast between praise and criticism for top female wrestlers like Flair and Mone highlights the competitive nature and evolving standards in the sport.
