Stephanie Vaquer, 32, is set to compete for the vacant Women’s World Championship at WWE’s Wrestlepalooza on September 20, facing off against IYO SKY. This opportunity marks the most significant match of Vaquer’s professional wrestling career. Her journey to this point highlights the challenges and determination behind the Stephanie Vaquer WWE journey.
Earlier this year, at the Evolution event in July, Vaquer secured her position as the number one contender for the Women’s World Championship. She was initially scheduled to face Naomi, the then-champion, at Clash in Paris on August 31. However, after Naomi announced her pregnancy and relinquished the title prior to the event in France, WWE’s Raw General Manager Adam Pearce canceled the match.
Subsequently, Pearce named IYO SKY, the previous titleholder, as Naomi’s replacement. The match between Vaquer and SKY was officially arranged for Wrestlepalooza, WWE’s first premium live event streamed on ESPN, adding further spotlight to the contest.
The Unconventional Path Behind Vaquer’s Rise to WWE Prominence
Stephanie Vaquer’s path to becoming a WWE title contender was far from straightforward. In a conversation with Chris Van Vliet on Insight, Vaquer opened up about working several odd jobs to fund her wrestling training and travel expenses. These roles included waitressing and shoe repair—tasks unrelated to wrestling but crucial to supporting her ambitions.
Mesera [waitress], fixing shoes. Yeah, many things, because I need money for training and travel. So many weird things,” Vaquer said.
Her willingness to undertake unfamiliar jobs reflects the sacrifices she has made in pursuit of wrestling success, underscoring the grit involved in her ascent within WWE.
Potential Impact of Vaquer’s Title Match and IYO SKY’s Personal Challenges
If Vaquer defeats IYO SKY at Wrestlepalooza, she will join a prestigious group of wrestlers who rapidly captured a World Championship soon after joining WWE’s main roster. This victory would significantly boost her profile and solidify her role in WWE’s flagship programming on Netflix.
Meanwhile, reports suggest tension between IYO SKY and her close friends Asuka and Kairi Sane, which could affect her performance in the title match. Such personal dynamics add an unpredictable element to the upcoming bout, intensifying the stakes for both competitors as they vie for the championship.
