Revitalizing the WWE Women's Division: Addressing Current Concerns Ahead of SummerSlam

The WWE Women's Division once stood as a pillar of excitement and innovation, delivering matches that not only entertained but also shaped the company’s identity. Last year, the division carried WWE with high-quality, impactful bouts and storylines that resonated deeply with fans. Now, as SummerSlam approaches, many feel the division is stuck in limbo. The momentum has slowed, representation feels minimal, and the build-up lacks the energy and focus it once had. This post explores the current challenges facing the WWE Women's Division and offers ideas on how to restore its prominence heading into one of WWE’s biggest events.

Rhea Ripley and Iyo Sky prepare for their tag match. Courtesy of Bleacher Report

The Decline in Momentum Compared to Last Year

In 2025, the WWE Women’s Division was a driving force behind the company’s success. Matches were not just filler; they were main event-level attractions that showcased athleticism, storytelling, and character development. Wrestlers like Rhea Ripley, Bianca Belair, Naomi, and others delivered performances that fans still talk about today. These stars had the most viral moments in 2025, and the division had a clear direction, and every match felt meaningful.

Fast forward to 2026, and the scene looks different. The division seems to have lost its spark. The number of high-profile matches has dwindled, and the storylines lack the depth and urgency that made last year’s division overall so compelling. This decline is especially noticeable as SummerSlam nears, with only a handful of women’s matches announced and little build-up on weekly shows.

Fans and critics alike express frustration that the division is in a state of uncertainty. The lack of momentum is not just disappointing; it risks alienating a passionate fanbase that expects more from WWE’s women wrestlers.

Current Issues Affecting the Division

Stephanie Vaquer and Liv Morgan face off in the ring. Courtesy of WWE

Lack of Screen Time

One of the most glaring problems is the limited screen time for women on flagship shows like RAW. A recent episode of RAW, for example, focused heavily on Judgment Day segments, leaving the women’s division absent, except for the ladies of Judgment Day. This absence signals that the division is not a priority, undermining the wrestlers’ efforts and fans’ interest.

Without consistent exposure, it becomes difficult to build anticipation for matches or develop characters. The women’s division needs regular, meaningful segments that showcase rivalries, promos, and in-ring action to keep fans engaged.

Poor Build-up for Key Matches

Promos and storylines are the backbone of wrestling, creating emotional investment and excitement. Unfortunately, some important promos have been relegated to social media rather than being featured live on television. A notable example is the promo between Lyra Valkyria and Sol Ruca, which was posted online post-show, instead of being part of a live RAW episode that had no other women's division TV time.

This approach limits the promo's reach and impact, and makes the women's storylines feel like a total afterthought. Social media clips often reach only a fraction of the audience that watches live TV, and they lack the immediacy and drama that come with live broadcasts. The division needs to bring these moments back to the main shows to build stronger connections with the audience.

Limited Match Card for SummerSlam

SummerSlam is one of WWE’s biggest events, and the women’s division currently has only three matches scheduled. This number feels insufficient given the talent pool and the division’s potential. A major event should highlight the women’s division more prominently, with multiple high-stakes matches that showcase different styles and storylines.

The limited match card suggests the division is being overlooked, which could hurt its credibility and the wrestlers’ morale. Fans expect SummerSlam to be a showcase for the best WWE has to offer, and the women’s division deserves a bigger spotlight.

What WWE Should Do to Improve the Booking

To revitalize the WWE Women’s Division, WWE needs to take several concrete steps:

• Increase Screen Time

Women’s storylines and matches should be featured regularly on RAW and SmackDown. This includes opening segments, backstage promos, and meaningful in-ring action. Consistent exposure builds momentum and keeps fans invested.

• Bring Promos Back to Live TV

Promos like the one between Lyra Valkyria and Sol Ruca should be part of the weekly shows. Live promos create anticipation and allow wrestlers to connect with the audience in real time.

• Expand the SummerSlam Match Card

WWE should add more women’s matches to SummerSlam. Possible additions include a Women's Intercontinental Championship match or a match involving big names such as Becky Lynch, Alex Bliss, or Nia Jax. This would demonstrate WWE’s commitment to the division and give fans more reasons to tune in.

• Develop Stronger Storylines

WWE should focus on long-term storytelling that allows wrestlers to grow their characters and rivalries. This could involve fresh feuds, unexpected alliances, or personal story arcs that resonate with viewers.

• Highlight New Talent

Introducing new or underutilized wrestlers into prominent storylines can inject fresh energy into the division. Wrestlers like Nikkita Lyons or Zoey Stark could benefit from more spotlight and meaningful matches.

Matches and Storylines That Could Elevate SummerSlam

Becky Lynch and AJ Lee trade punches in the ring. Courtesy of WWE

Here are some specific ideas for matches and storylines that could improve the SummerSlam card:

• Lyra Valkyria vs. Sol Ruca

This rivalry has potential but needs a proper build on TV. A hard-hitting match at SummerSlam could showcase their skills and give fans a fresh, exciting bout.

• Emerging Star Spotlight

A match featuring rising stars like Lola Vice, Kendall Grey, Jadia Parker, Kelani Jordan, and more against established veterans such as Becky Lynch, Alexa Bliss, or Nia Jax could create new fan favorites and build future main eventers.

Final Thoughts on the WWE Women’s Division

The WWE Women’s Division has proven it can deliver unforgettable moments and carry the company’s biggest shows. Right now, it faces challenges that threaten to stall its progress. By increasing screen time, improving promo placement, expanding the SummerSlam card, and developing stronger storylines, WWE can restore the division’s momentum and excitement.

Fans want to see women wrestlers given the respect and spotlight they deserve. SummerSlam offers a perfect opportunity to showcase the division’s talent and remind everyone why the women’s division is a vital part of WWE’s future. WWE should seize this moment to invest in the division and deliver a SummerSlam that truly celebrates the best of women’s wrestling.