Steve Carrier on May 7, 2023
The WWE Backlash 2023 event was a special one for Puerto Rican WWE fans, as it featured the return of some Puerto Rican WWE alumni and a career-highlight moment for one currently active Puerto Rican star, Zelina Vega.
In front of her home country crowd and her family at ringside, Vega of the LWO challenged Rhea Ripley for the Smackdown Women’s Championship. Both before the match and after the bell rang, a visibly emotional Vega took in the incredible response from the San Juan crowd.
Former WWE announcer Ricardo Rodriguez, who is also of Puerto Rican descent, took to Twitter in response to Vega’s match and cited a personal experience from his own time in the company that Vega’s moment reminded him of.
“Years ago we did WWE TV in Mexico City and I can not begin to tell you how much that meant to me. To be representing our people. It may not mean a lot to many. But I legit shed a tear seeing @ZelinaVegaWWE as she stood within hers. I felt that moment.”
Despite her great showing, Vega was unsuccessful in her pursuit of Ripley’s championship, eventually being pinned following a Riptide. However, her emotional moment in front of her home country crowd will not be forgotten anytime soon.
For many WWE fans, seeing their favorite stars compete in their home countries is a special and emotional experience. Vega’s championship match in Puerto Rico was no exception, as she represented not only herself but also her people and culture.
How important is it for WWE to have their superstars compete in their home countries? What does it mean to fans to see their favorite wrestlers representing their culture and people in the ring? Leave a comment.
May 7, 2023 10:09 am
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