The landscape of WWE’s women’s division is currently ablaze with anticipation as WrestleMania 41 looms on

 the horizon. At the epicenter of this fervor stands IYO SKY, the reigning WWE Women’s World Champion, whose position at the apex of the division has been solidified by a series of compelling storylines and dramatic confrontations. The recent episode of Monday Night RAW, featuring an intense confrontation between SKY, Bianca Belair, and Rhea Ripley, has further amplified the stakes, setting the stage for a potentially explosive championship match at the grandest stage of them all.¹

IYO SKY’s journey to the championship has been a testament to her exceptional in-ring prowess and her ability to captivate audiences with her unique blend of technical mastery and high-flying acrobatics. Her reign as champion has been marked by a series of captivating matches and compelling storylines, solidifying her position as a dominant force in the women’s division.

The recent confrontation on RAW, involving SKY, Belair, and Ripley, was a masterclass in tension building. The three competitors, each possessing a distinct persona and a unique set of skills, engaged in a verbal and physical exchange that underscored the intensity of their rivalry. The segment served to elevate the stakes of their upcoming championship match, transforming it from a mere sporting contest into a personal battle for supremacy.

However, the execution of this segment, particularly SKY’s role in it, has drawn criticism from veteran wrestling analyst Vince Russo. On the latest episode of Sportskeeda WrestleBinge’s “Legion of RAW,” Russo voiced his concerns about WWE’s decision to allow SKY to speak during the segment.

“I don’t understand the decision to let IYO SKY talk,” Russo stated. “I don’t understand it, bro. It’s bad. It’s really, really bad, bro.”

Russo’s critique centers on the perception that SKY’s verbal delivery detracts from her overall presentation. He argues that her accent and her limited English proficiency create a barrier to effective communication, hindering her ability to connect with the audience on an emotional level.

To illustrate his point, Russo drew a comparison to Shohei Ohtani, the Japanese baseball superstar who plays for the Los Angeles Dodgers. “When you see Shohei (Ohtani) on television and bro, Shohei has been playing in the major leagues [Baseball] for a very long time. So Shohei can speak English. Yeah, he has an interpreter every single time you see Shohei on TV.”

Russo’s analogy highlights the strategic use of an interpreter to enhance a foreign athlete’s communication with an English-speaking audience. He argues that WWE should adopt a similar approach with IYO SKY, utilizing an interpreter to convey her message with clarity and impact.

Russo’s critique raises several key issues regarding IYO SKY’s presentation and the broader dynamics of international talent in WWE.

Firstly, it highlights the importance of effective communication in professional wrestling. A performer’s ability to connect with the audience on an emotional level is crucial for building a compelling character and generating fan engagement. Verbal delivery, including promo skills and in-ring commentary, plays a significant role in this process.

Secondly, it underscores the challenges faced by international talent in adapting to an English-speaking audience. Language barriers, cultural differences, and the nuances of communication can all present obstacles to effective storytelling.

Thirdly, it raises questions about WWE’s approach to showcasing international talent. Should the company prioritize authenticity, allowing performers to express themselves in their native language, or should it prioritize clarity, utilizing interpreters or other communication aids?

Russo’s critique suggests that WWE should adopt a more strategic approach to IYO SKY’s presentation. He argues that utilizing an interpreter would not only enhance her communication with the audience but also add a layer of intrigue and mystique to her character.

However, it is important to note that Russo’s perspective is not universally shared. Some fans and analysts may argue that SKY’s accent and her limited English proficiency are part of her unique charm, contributing to her authenticity and her connection with international audiences.

The debate surrounding IYO SKY’s presentation also highlights the evolving dynamics of professional wrestling storytelling. In an era where social media platforms provide a direct channel of communication between performers and fans, the lines between kayfabe and reality have become increasingly blurred. The audience’s perception of a character, their understanding of the storylines, is shaped by a multitude of factors, including social media interactions, backstage reports, and the performers’ own perspectives.

The WWE creative team now faces the challenge of addressing Russo’s concerns and finding a way to enhance IYO SKY’s presentation. They must find a balance between authenticity and clarity, between showcasing her unique persona and ensuring that her message resonates with the audience.

They could utilize an interpreter, as Russo suggests, or they could explore other creative solutions, such as pre-recorded promos or backstage segments that highlight her in-ring skills and her character development.

Ultimately, the success of IYO SKY’s reign as WWE Women’s World Champion will depend on the company’s ability to craft compelling storylines and showcase her unique talents. Her in-ring prowess, her charisma, and her ability to connect with the audience are all crucial components of her success.

The WWE is building a story that has a lot of layers, and they must make sure that all of the layers are understood by the audience. The WWE must decide how to best showcase its international talent.