Sasha Banks, Bayley, Becky Lynch, & Charlotte Flair: The 4HW

\Hey wrestling fans! Let’s dive into the incredible careers and impact of four groundbreaking women in WWE: Sasha Banks, Bayley, Becky Lynch, and Charlotte Flair. Known affectionately as the Four Horsewomen (or 4HW), these superstars have revolutionized women's wrestling, bringing it to new heights of popularity and respect. Their journey from NXT to the main roster is filled with memorable matches, captivating storylines, and a lasting legacy.

The NXT Revolution

Before they were household names, Sasha Banks, Bayley, Becky Lynch, and Charlotte Flair were making waves in NXT. This was a time when women’s wrestling was beginning to be taken more seriously, and these four were at the forefront of that change. Their matches weren’t just filler; they were main event material, filled with drama, athleticism, and compelling storytelling. Bayley, with her lovable underdog persona, connected with fans on a deep level. Her journey to the NXT Women’s Championship was a classic tale of perseverance and heart. Sasha Banks, “The Boss,” brought unmatched swagger and intensity, making her the perfect foil to Bayley’s good nature. Their rivalry culminated in an Iron Man match at NXT TakeOver: Respect, a historic moment that proved women could deliver a grueling, captivating main event. Becky Lynch, ever the fighting Irishwoman, added a fiery spirit to the mix. Her dedication and never-give-up attitude quickly made her a fan favorite. Charlotte Flair, with her undeniable athleticism and natural charisma (being Ric Flair's daughter certainly didn't hurt), brought a sense of royalty and prestige to the division. Together, these women elevated NXT’s women’s division to unprecedented levels, setting the stage for their main roster takeover.

Main Roster Impact: Breaking Barriers

When Sasha Banks, Bayley, Becky Lynch, and Charlotte Flair transitioned to the main roster, they didn't just join the show – they changed it. They arrived at a time when women’s wrestling on Raw and SmackDown was often relegated to short, unremarkable matches. But these four were determined to break through those limitations. One of the earliest and most significant moments was the Divas Revolution in 2015. Although the initial storyline was a bit clunky, it was clear that WWE was finally ready to invest in its female talent. Sasha and Bayley continued their rivalry, bringing their NXT magic to the main stage. Becky, with her “Lass Kicker” persona, quickly gained momentum as a relatable and tough competitor. Charlotte, with her natural athleticism and heel tendencies, became a dominant force in the division. They fought for championships, main evented shows, and delivered show-stealing performances night after night. They proved that women could draw crowds, sell merchandise, and be just as compelling as their male counterparts. They weren't just Divas; they were Superstars.

Memorable Matches and Rivalries

The Four Horsewomen have been part of some of the most memorable matches and rivalries in recent WWE history. Sasha Banks and Bayley’s aforementioned Iron Man match in NXT is still talked about as a classic. On the main roster, their Hell in a Cell match in 2016 was another groundbreaking moment, marking the first time women had competed inside the demonic structure. Charlotte Flair and Sasha Banks had a historic rivalry that saw them trade the Raw Women’s Championship multiple times in a series of incredible matches. Their Falls Count Anywhere match is a particular standout. Becky Lynch’s rise to “The Man” in 2018-2019 was fueled by her intense rivalry with Charlotte Flair and Ronda Rousey. The build-up to their WrestleMania 35 main event was captivating, and the match itself was a defining moment for women’s wrestling. Bayley, while sometimes overlooked in these conversations, has had her share of memorable moments, including her SmackDown Women’s Championship reign and her heel turn, which showcased a different side of her personality. Each of these women has contributed to a rich tapestry of in-ring storytelling.

Championship Reigns and Accomplishments

Speaking of championships, the Four Horsewomen have racked up an impressive list of accomplishments. Charlotte Flair is a multi-time Women’s Champion, holding titles on Raw, SmackDown, and NXT. Her accolades speak to her consistent dominance and ability to reinvent herself. Sasha Banks has also held multiple titles, including the Raw Women’s Championship, the SmackDown Women’s Championship, and the Women’s Tag Team Championship. Her “Boss” persona and in-ring skills have made her a perennial fan favorite. Becky Lynch’s journey to the top culminated in her WrestleMania 35 victory, where she captured both the Raw and SmackDown Women’s Championships. Her “The Man” persona resonated with fans, and she became one of the biggest stars in WWE. Bayley has held the Raw and SmackDown Women’s Championships, as well as the Women’s Tag Team Championship. Her ability to play both a lovable babyface and a conniving heel has showcased her versatility as a performer. Beyond the titles, these women have broken numerous barriers, including main eventing WrestleMania, Hell in a Cell, and other major shows. They’ve proven that women can be just as successful and popular as their male counterparts.

Beyond the Ring: Influence and Legacy

The Four Horsewomen’s influence extends far beyond the wrestling ring. They’ve become role models for aspiring wrestlers and fans around the world. They’ve shown that with hard work, dedication, and a little bit of attitude, anything is possible. Their impact can be seen in the rise of women’s wrestling globally. More women are training to become wrestlers, and more promotions are investing in their women’s divisions. WWE’s women’s division is now one of the most exciting and competitive parts of the company. The Four Horsewomen have also used their platform to advocate for important causes, such as gender equality, mental health awareness, and LGBTQ+ rights. They’ve shown that wrestlers can be more than just performers; they can be agents of change. Their legacy is one of empowerment, inspiration, and revolution. They’ve paved the way for future generations of women wrestlers, and their impact will be felt for years to come.

Where Are They Now?

So, where are the Four Horsewomen now? As of 2024, all four women continue to make waves in the wrestling world, though their paths have diverged somewhat. Charlotte Flair remains a top star in WWE, consistently competing for championships and delivering memorable matches. Her athleticism and charisma continue to make her a force to be reckoned with. Becky Lynch is also still a major player in WWE, balancing her in-ring career with her role as a mother. Her “The Man” persona remains incredibly popular, and she continues to be a main event attraction. Bayley is an active member of the WWE roster. Sasha Banks is now wrestling under the name Mercedes Moné in other wrestling promotions.

The Future of Women’s Wrestling

The future of women’s wrestling is bright, thanks in no small part to the Four Horsewomen. They’ve raised the bar for what’s possible, and they’ve inspired a new generation of wrestlers to follow in their footsteps. As more women enter the sport and more promotions invest in their women’s divisions, we can expect to see even more incredible matches, captivating storylines, and groundbreaking moments. The Four Horsewomen have laid the foundation for a future where women’s wrestling is not just a sideshow, but a main event attraction. And that’s something worth celebrating.

In conclusion, Sasha Banks, Bayley, Becky Lynch, and Charlotte Flair have left an indelible mark on the world of professional wrestling. Their journey from NXT to the main roster is a testament to their talent, hard work, and dedication. They’ve broken barriers, shattered expectations, and inspired millions of fans around the world. They are the Four Horsewomen, and their legacy will endure for generations to come.