In a watershed moment at WrestleMania 40, Bayley etched her name into the annals of wrestling history, securing her first singles match victory at the illustrious event and capturing the coveted Women’s World Championship. Facing off against her former stablemate, Iyo Sky, Bayley delivered a performance that captivated audiences and critics alike, culminating in a triumph that underscored her resilience and determination.
The clash between Bayley and Iyo Sky was not just a contest of athleticism but a narrative rich in personal history and rivalry. With Dave Meltzer likening the encounter to the fast-paced action characteristic of STARDOM, fans were treated to a spectacle that showcased the best of both competitors. Despite Sky’s formidable prowess, it was Bayley who emerged victorious, executing a flawless sequence of maneuvers that culminated in her signature Bayley-to-Belly followed by a Rose Plant & Elbow Drop combination, sealing her victory and clinching the championship.
What made Bayley’s win even more remarkable was the absence of any outside interference. In a display of sheer skill and determination, Bayley faced her former stablemate head-on, overcoming every obstacle thrown her way. The result left Sky, the former Women’s Champion, undoubtedly regretful as she was unable to thwart Bayley’s ascent to the top of the women’s division.
Bayley’s path to WrestleMania glory began with her triumph in the Women’s Royal Rumble match, a victory that earned her the prestigious opportunity to challenge for the title on the grandest stage of them all. While some may have viewed her victory as unexpected, it was a moment of jubilation for Bayley and her supporters, who had witnessed her relentless pursuit of championship glory.
However, Bayley’s victory was not just about personal achievement; it was a testament to her resilience and determination in the face of adversity. The road to WrestleMania had been fraught with challenges, with Bayley overcoming doubts and setbacks to emerge triumphant on the grandest stage of them all.
In addition to her personal triumph, Bayley’s win also contributed to the impressive success rate of Women’s Royal Rumble winners at WrestleMania, with her victory bringing the tally to 5 out of 7. Notably, the only two Superstars to not clinch the title following their Rumble victory were Asuka in 2018 and Ronda Rousey in 2022, further highlighting the significance of Bayley’s accomplishment.
For Bayley, WrestleMania 40 was more than just a championship win; it was a culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and unwavering belief in herself. Unlike her fellow Horsewomen of WWE, Bayley had never been afforded the opportunity to compete in a one-on-one match main event at WrestleMania, often finding herself relegated to tag team matches or battle royals. However, on this night, Bayley finally received her long-awaited WrestleMania moment, solidifying her place among the elite in the women’s division.
As she stood victorious in the ring, the Women’s World Championship held high above her head, Bayley’s journey came full circle. From being left off the card entirely in 2021 to now standing tall as the Women’s World Champion, Bayley had overcome every obstacle in her path, proving once and for all that she belonged on the grandest stage of them all.