The wrestling world loves its debates, but few topics spark as much passionate discussion as determining the greatest of all time. For WWE Women’s United States Champion Zelina Vega, the challenge of selecting just four women for wrestling’s Mount Rushmore proves to be an exercise in futility—and her reasoning might surprise you.
The Impossible Task of Choosing Just Four Legends
When WrestleStar posed the classic Mount Rushmore question to Vega, the champion’s immediate reaction said it all. The concept of limiting wrestling greatness to just four names left her visibly frustrated with the constraints of the hypothetical exercise.
“That’s such a hard question. That’s such a hard question because… what, do you only get four? Yeah, dude, that’s like… oh my God, that’s so hard.”
Vega’s response highlights a reality that wrestling fans know all too well—the women’s division has produced far too many legends to fit neatly into any four-person conversation.
Two Different Categories, Two Different Lists
What makes Vega’s perspective particularly insightful is her recognition that women’s wrestling excellence comes in multiple forms. As someone who has excelled both as an in-ring competitor and as a manager, she understands the distinction better than most.
Her managerial influences read like a who’s who of WWE greatness. Stephanie McMahon earned special recognition as Vega’s “everything when it came to managing,” while legends like Melina and “Sensational” Sherri Martel also made her personal list. Interestingly, she even referenced Paul Heyman, showing how she draws inspiration across gender lines.
The Managing Masters Who Shaped Her Style
Vega’s acknowledgment of her managerial influences provides rare insight into how modern performers study the craft. Her mention of these specific names reveals the careful attention she’s paid to the art of ringside psychology and character work throughout WWE history.
The Untouchable Duo: Lita and Trish Stratus
While Vega struggled with most selections, two names emerged as absolute locks for any women’s wrestling Mount Rushmore discussion. Her certainty about these choices speaks volumes about their lasting impact on the industry.
“I feel like you can’t have a Mount Rushmore without Lita, without a Trish.”
This declaration puts Lita and Trish Stratus in rarefied air as the only unanimous selections from WWE’s current Women’s US Champion. Their inclusion reflects the widespread recognition of their groundbreaking contributions during the Attitude Era and beyond.
The Modern Era Dilemma
Perhaps the most compelling aspect of Vega’s response involves her struggle to balance legendary pioneers with today’s game-changers. She specifically highlighted current superstars Rhea Ripley and Bianca Belair as examples of modern excellence that complicates any historical ranking.
The champion also showed deep respect for often-overlooked legends like Ivory and Victoria, demonstrating her comprehensive knowledge of women’s wrestling history. This recognition of “forgotten” greats shows how difficult it becomes to honor everyone who deserves acknowledgment.
Accomplishments vs. Legacy: A Complex Equation
Vega’s mention of what modern stars “have done and accomplished” versus historical impact reveals the central tension in any GOAT debate. How do you weigh career achievements against cultural influence and barrier-breaking moments?
The Ten-Name Solution
Ultimately, Vega’s proposed solution speaks to what many wrestling fans already know—four spots simply aren’t enough to capture the full scope of women’s wrestling excellence in WWE.
“I wish I could just say, like, here’s your list of ten. But yeah, it’s difficult.”
Her honesty about the limitation reflects a deeper truth about women’s wrestling evolution. The division has grown so rich with talent across multiple eras that traditional ranking systems break down under the weight of legitimate greatness.
As WWE’s women’s division continues reaching new heights with champions like Vega herself, this Mount Rushmore debate will only get more complicated. With current stars already earning comparison to legends and new talent constantly emerging, maybe it’s time to accept that some debates are better left unresolved—what do you think should be the criteria for women’s wrestling greatness?
