In 2010, NXT debuted as a mix of reality television and professional wrestling. Initially beginning as a competition-style show, it evolved into WWE’s developmental territory for the new up-and-coming wrestlers. Around 2014, it began its peak, staying at the top for years to come, and gave the rising stars a platform other than RAW and SmackDown to showcase their talents.
The same period saw an upsurge in women’s wrestling. The ‘women’s revolution’ kicked off majorly on NXT with the likes of the four horsewomen, who redefined wrestling. And two of those women, Sasha Banks (now Mercedes Mone) and Bayley, a decade ago on August 22, 2015, made history.
Sasha Banks vs. Bayley at NXT: TakeOver Brooklyn 2015
Sasha Banks and Bayley, particularly at NXT TakeOver: Brooklyn in 2015, were unmatched. This match is widely regarded as a turning point for women’s wrestling. It redefined what the division could achieve with storytelling, character development, and in-ring execution. The Brooklyn bout between Banks and Bayley is frequently hailed as the greatest women’s match in WWE history. With a limited time of 18:22 minutes, the rivals showed what they are capable of.
The momentum in the bout was constantly shifting, with both overpowering at the right time. Bayley, the underdog babyface, faced off against Banks, the dominant and charismatic heel. Their chemistry was undeniable, with Banks’ aggressive, authentic offense contrasting with Bayley’s resilient performance. The Brooklyn crowd was electric, amplifying the match’s intensity. Fans were so invested that hundreds lined up outside the Barclays Center hours before the event, despite it not being general admission.
Why was Banks vs. Bayley necessary?
That match was more than just a display of athleticism; it was a cultural milestone. At a time when WWE was transitioning from the “Divas” era to the “Women’s Revolution,”. That’s when Banks vs. Bayley stormed the ring and showed that women could carry a storyline and deliver a performance on par with or superior to many men’s matches. The match earned a four and a half star rating from Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, who later called it the greatest women’s match in WWE history so far.
The Banks-Bayley rivalry extended beyond Brooklyn, with an encore at NXT TakeOver: Respect, where they main-evented in a highly acclaimed 30-minute Iron Man Match. This follow-up further showcased their ability to push boundaries, as it was one of the first times women headlined a major WWE event.
Behind the scenes, the success of Banks and Bayley’s rivalry was rooted in their real-life friendship. As revealed in shoot interviews, tell-all books, and podcasts, the best wrestling rivalries often stem from genuine camaraderie. Banks and Bayley have openly discussed their close bond, which translated into unparalleled in-ring chemistry. Whether playing friends or foes on screen, their mutual respect and understanding allowed them to craft compelling narratives that resonated with audiences.
How did Banks vs. Bayley affect the wrestling world?
When discussing women’s wrestling, certain rivalries stand out as defining moments in the industry’s history. During WWE’s national expansion in the 1980s, Wendi Richter and The Fabulous Moolah engaged in a feud that captured mainstream attention. In the early 2000s, Trish Stratus and Lita set a new standard with their high-profile rivalry, showcasing the athletic potential of women in WWE. However, none changed the landscape like the rivalry of Banks vs. Bayley and their Brooklyn match did.
The impact of Banks vs. Bayley at NXT TakeOver: Brooklyn reverberated far beyond that night. It challenged stereotypes about women’s wrestling, proving that with the right build and creative freedom, women could draw massive crowd reactions. The match paved the way for future milestones, such as women headlining WrestleMania, and inspired a new generation of female wrestlers.