The spotlight is shining bright on the women’s division as Reality of Wrestling (ROW) prepares for one of its most anticipated events of the year the 2025 Sherri Martel Classic. This year, the tournament is set to feature a major crossover star: WWE NXT’s Tyra Mae Steele, who is stepping into the ring under the watchful eye of ROW founder Booker T. The move marks another significant collaboration between WWE’s developmental brand and the Texas-based promotion, further blurring the lines between NXT and the independent scene.
Booker T’s Vision for Women’s Wrestling
Booker T, the WWE Hall of Famer and founder of Reality of Wrestling, has long been a vocal advocate for elevating women’s wrestling. Since launching ROW in 2005, he has consistently provided a platform for unsigned talent to showcase their skills, and in recent years, the promotion has become a proving ground for future stars. The Sherri Martel Classic, named in honor of the legendary manager and wrestler, is a cornerstone of ROW’s commitment to women’s wrestling.
“Booker T has always believed that women’s wrestling deserves the same spotlight as the men’s division,” said a ROW insider familiar with the event’s planning. “Bringing in talent like Tyra Mae Steele from NXT is a testament to how much he values competition and opportunity for women.”
Tyra Mae Steele’s NXT Journey
Tyra Mae Steele has quickly risen through the ranks in NXT, earning praise for her athleticism, charisma, and in-ring prowess. Her inclusion in the Sherri Martel Classic is seen as a major opportunity to test her skills against a diverse field of competitors, many of whom bring different styles and experiences to the table.
“Tyra Mae has been a standout in NXT, and this tournament is a chance for her to prove she can hang with the best, regardless of the promotion,” the insider added. “It’s a big moment for her career, and for the women’s division as a whole.”
The Sherri Martel Classic: A Showcase of Talent
The Sherri Martel Classic is more than just a tournament it’s a celebration of women’s wrestling. The event features a mix of NXT stars, ROW regulars, and international talent, all vying for the prestigious title. Past winners have gone on to achieve success in major promotions, and this year’s field is expected to be one of the strongest yet.
“Every year, the Sherri Martel Classic brings together some of the most talented women in the business,” said a ROW spokesperson. “This year is no different, and with Tyra Mae Steele in the mix, the stakes are higher than ever.”
Booker T’s Influence and NXT’s Role
Booker T’s relationship with WWE has grown stronger in recent years, with ROW serving as a developmental territory for WWE ID and NXT. The collaboration has allowed NXT talent to gain valuable experience outside the WWE bubble, while also giving ROW a boost in visibility and credibility.
“Booker T has always been about giving talent opportunities to grow,” said a WWE insider. “Bringing NXT stars into ROW events like the Sherri Martel Classic is a win-win for everyone involved. It’s great for the talent, great for ROW, and great for the fans.”
What’s at Stake for Tyra Mae Steele
For Tyra Mae Steele, the Sherri Martel Classic is more than just a tournament—it’s a chance to make a statement. With her NXT career on the rise, a strong performance in the Classic could propel her into the upper echelon of women’s wrestling.
“Tyra Mae has the potential to be a breakout star,” said the ROW insider. “This tournament is her chance to show what she’s made of, and to prove that she belongs among the best.”
The Road Ahead
As the Sherri Martel Classic approaches, all eyes will be on Tyra Mae Steele and the rest of the field. The tournament promises to deliver high-stakes action, unforgettable moments, and a showcase of the best women’s wrestling has to offer.
“Booker T has always been about pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in wrestling,” said the ROW spokesperson. “The Sherri Martel Classic is a perfect example of that vision, and we can’t wait to see what Tyra Mae Steele and the other competitors bring to the ring.”
With the support of Booker T and the backing of WWE, Tyra Mae Steele is poised to make her mark on the Sherri Martel Classic and the women’s division as a whole. The tournament is set to be a defining moment for her career, and for the future of women’s wrestling.