Chelsea Green, a prominent WWE SmackDown competitor, has sparked debate regarding her future as a world title contender in WWE. Despite her success as the former Women’s United States Champion, Green has yet to break into the world championship scene, and producer Michael Hayes recently expressed that she may be better suited to supporting roles rather than leading the roster.
Hayes pointed out that Green is not designed to follow the trajectories of stars like Tiffany Stratton or Charlotte Flair, suggesting her role is to help boost such wrestlers, a remark that Green found personally hurtful after being highlighted in WWE’s Netflix docuseries, Unreal.
Rikishi Names Chelsea Green a Genuine Main Event Talent
Among those weighing in on Green’s career path is WWE Hall of Famer Rikishi, who strongly believes she has what it takes to ascend to the main event in women’s wrestling. Speaking on his Off The Top Rope podcast, Rikishi described Green as an undeniable main event-caliber talent and emphasized the importance of how WWE chooses to develop her.
I feel 100% that Chelsea Green is a main eventer. It’s not that Chelsea can’t do the work. It’s not that Chelsea is not a prime talent performer. But the thing is how you’re writing stuff for this girl. Give Chelsea a fair opportunity. Build Chelsea up as much as you would give a Charlotte Flair an opportunity. Give Chelsea that big, crazy entrance. I mean, really put it all out for her and don’t worry about the work. Let her do that. She’s got that on point.
?Rikishi, WWE Hall of Famer
Green’s status among fans remains strong despite her villainous persona, with Shawn Michaels even naming her one of the most entertaining WWE performers last year. Rikishi cautioned that WWE should carefully protect this talent to maintain her potential.
My thing is, with good talent, you only get good talent once in a while. And when you finally find that good talent, such as a Chelsea Green, you want to make sure you protect her. If you don’t have anything for her, put her on the shelf for a second, right? Let it marinate with whatever they’re doing with the next person.
?Rikishi, WWE Hall of Famer
Green made her WWE return at the Royal Rumble in January 2023 showcasing a refreshed character that quickly resonated with audiences. Her strategy involves provoking management while maneuvering behind her faction, The Green Regime, especially when facing tough opponents.
Current Injury Forces Chelsea Green Out of Action
While hopes remain high for Green’s main event future, her progress has been stalled by a recent injury. She announced via social media that she suffered a broken ankle, and she was seen wearing an ankle brace on SmackDown this past Friday.
The Wrestling Observer Newsletter traced the injury to a triple threat match involving Tiffany Stratton and Lash Legend earlier this month on SmackDown. Despite the injury, Green took part in a AAA Mixed Tag Team Championship defense with Ethan Page against Mr Iguana and Lola Vice, although the team ultimately lost.
Initially, medical assessments suggested her injury was minor, allowing for a short recovery. However, further examination revealed a fractured and chipped ankle bone, which is expected to sideline her for an extended period.
At 34 years old, this setback threatens Green’s chances of appearing at WrestleMania 42, the company’s flagship event. Nonetheless, her recent appearance on SmackDown hints that WWE will continue to involve her in storylines during her recovery.
Implications for Chelsea Green’s WWE Trajectory
Chelsea Green’s current situation reflects the complex challenges wrestlers face balancing injury recovery with career momentum. With backing from respected figures like Rikishi and a devoted fanbase, Green’s potential for a WWE main event spot remains legitimate, provided the company crafts the right opportunities for her.
Her injury, while unfortunate, might grant WWE time to develop her character and storyline, ensuring she returns stronger and better positioned to compete at the highest level. How management decides to protect and showcase Green over the coming months will likely determine if she can transition from a popular mid-card performer to a bona fide world champion.
