Here’s a bold statement: Thekla might just be one of AEW’s most underrated and impactful signings in recent memory. But here’s where it gets controversial—while many initially wrote her off as a character-driven performer who lacked in-ring prowess, her recent performances are forcing everyone to rethink that narrative. Let me explain.
As someone who’s casually followed Japanese women’s wrestling (or joshi), I’ll admit I didn’t have much footage of Thekla before she joined AEW last year. What caught my attention immediately was her commanding presence—both in the ring and during interviews. It aligned with what I’d heard: she’s a performer who prioritizes character over five-star matches. And honestly? That’s still a fair assessment. But this is the part most people miss—her in-ring skills are far better than she’s often given credit for.
Take her Women’s World Title match against Kris Statlander on Dynamite (Jan. 28) as a prime example. Thekla didn’t just hold her own against a top-tier talent like Stat; she elevated the match with her unique blend of charisma and technical ability. And when you can do that while exuding what the cool kids still call swagger (or rizz, if you’re feeling nostalgic), you’ve got something special on your hands.
Here’s hoping AEW President Tony Khan noticed. He’s done an impressive job building a women’s division stacked with in-ring talent, but let’s be real—only a handful of those performers bring both compelling characters and consistent entertainment value. Think Toni Storm, Willow Nightingale, and Harley Cameron. Thekla? She’s absolutely in that league. The Toxic Spider has that rare it factor that transcends wins and losses.
Speaking of losses, yes, she fell short against Statlander, and maybe she’s not quite ready for the title just yet. But here’s the thing: I’m not worried about her losing. That’s par for the course as an upper midcard heel. What I am excited about is the crowd’s reaction to her—both last night and throughout her feud with Stat. If Khan is paying attention (and I think he is), Thekla should start racking up more wins soon. And if those reactions keep growing? She’s a future main eventer, no question.
Now, here’s a thought-provoking question for you: Is Thekla’s character work overshadowing her in-ring growth, or is she the complete package we’ve been sleeping on? Let me know where you rank her among AEW’s signings—recent or all-time—in the comments below. While you’re at it, check out the rest of the highlights from Dynamite, including Statlander’s victory over Thekla:
- Kenny Omega vs. Rocky Romero
- Omega, Strickland, and Hangman battling for the AEW World Title!
- Jon Moxley vs. Ace Austin in the AEW Continental Eliminator
- Mark Briscoe vs. El Clon for the TNT Title
- Tommaso Ciampa’s AEW debut!
- Brody King’s shocking announcement to MJF
- Kris Statlander vs. Thekla for the AEW Women’s World Title
- FTR vs. Davis & Doyle for the AEW World Tag Team Title
- Swerve Strickland vs. Andrade El Idolo
For full results from the show, click here. And don’t miss the recap and review here.
