WWE Hall of Famer Rikishi recently ignited conversations within the wrestling community by comparing current WWE star Jade Cargill to the late, iconic Chyna. Speaking candidly on his podcast Rikishi Fatu – Off The Top, Rikishi framed Cargill as a modern-day, “black version” of the trailblazing WWE Hall of Famer, highlighting her unique presence and star potential in WWE’s women’s division.
Rikishi’s Bold Comparison: A Reborn Chyna?
Rikishi didn’t hold back when he linked Jade Cargill’s arrival and potential trajectory to that of Chyna, one of the most groundbreaking female wrestlers in WWE history. “That’s like a reborn Chyna… the black version,” Rikishi remarked, emphasizing Cargill’s commanding physical presence and athleticism. He praised her as a rare specimen who could easily be envisioned in blockbuster roles outside wrestling, likening her to a Marvel goddess figure, which underlines her crossover appeal beyond the squared circle[2][3][4].
This comparison is notable given Chyna’s legacy as a pioneer who broke gender barriers in WWE, forging a path in a predominantly male industry while redefining what female wrestlers could achieve. Rikishi’s framing suggests he sees similar star-making potential in Cargill, albeit with a fresh and contemporary identity suited for today’s WWE.
Challenges and Hope for Jade Cargill in WWE
Despite the optimism, Rikishi acknowledges Jade’s journey in WWE hasn’t been without its bumps. Since debuting in WWE in 2023 after a high-profile run in AEW, Cargill has yet to fully meet the high expectations fans had for her. According to Rikishi, it’s unclear what holds her back, but he points to the importance of patience from WWE’s side.
“There’s always a way to work around if it’s the athletic ability or working the match itself,” Rikishi said, implying that with more time and opportunity to develop her in-ring skills, Cargill could overcome current hurdles[2]. This perspective aligns with what sources close to WWE have revealed—that backstage, there is a cautious optimism about Jade’s growth with an understanding that polishing her craft is essential for her long-term success.
An industry insider shared with this reporter, “WWE sees Jade as a massive asset, but it’s clear they want to build her up carefully. They’re giving her some spotlight but also expect steady improvement in her match quality before pushing her into the main event spotlight.” This reflects WWE’s conservative approach with promising talent, balancing star power with in-ring proficiency.
Star Power and Marketability Like Few Others
Rikishi’s comments emphasize Jade Cargill’s exceptional marketability. He notes how rare it is to see someone with her look and charisma. This uniqueness not only makes her stand out but positions her as a potential megastar who can attract diverse audiences.
WWE is continuously looking to build new stars who can cross over into mainstream media and pop culture, and Cargill—the former model and athlete—fits this mold perfectly. Rikishi’s metaphor of seeing her as a movie star or Marvel character encapsulates WWE’s ongoing quest for wrestlers who can transcend the sport to become global icons.
The Legacy of Chyna and the Path Forward
Comparing anyone to Chyna is a high bar, considering the late star’s impact on WWE and women’s wrestling in general. Chyna was a trailblazer who shattered stereotypes by participating in men’s matches and championships, becoming one of the most dominant and influential figures of her era. Rikishi’s framing of Jade as a “reincarnation” speaks volumes about how he views her potential to redefine women’s wrestling in similar groundbreaking ways.
However, as Rikishi suggests, WWE must exercise patience and provide Jade with the right opportunities. Wrestling observers note that WWE’s creative direction can sometimes underutilize talent initially before unleashing their full potential. If WWE follows through with consistent booking and developmental support, Jade Cargill could emerge as a defining superstar of her generation.
Backstage Sentiment on Jade’s Future
According to a WWE insider familiar with talent development, “Jade has all the pieces—look, size, charisma—but it’s about finding her voice and style within WWE’s system. The company knows what it has, and there’s a quiet but strong push behind the scenes to elevate her.”
This backstage optimism supports Rikishi’s public praise, suggesting that while the path may be gradual, WWE is invested in seeing Jade fulfill her promise.
Conclusion: A New Era with Jade Cargill?
Rikishi’s confident comparison of Jade Cargill to a “black version” of Chyna is more than a compliment; it is an endorsement of her potential to become a generational star who reshapes WWE’s women’s division. While challenges remain in refining her in-ring performance and character development, her star power and uniqueness are undeniable assets.
With the right backing and creative confidence from WWE, Jade Cargill could indeed become the next major force in wrestling, honoring the legacy of Chyna while carving out her own distinct legacy in WWE history.