Raquel Gonzalez has rapidly grown in popularity since her debut on NXT earlier this year. Back in February, Gonzalez made a surprising debut by helping Dakota Kai in her match against Tegan Nox at TakeOver: Portland during a street fight. Since then she has been by the side of Kai but is certainly standing out on her own as well.
Most recently, Gonzalez had a memorable singles match at Halloween Havoc against Rhea Ripley. Although she didn’t secure a victory, the loss still showed what a powerhouse she is. Especially against Ripley who is a former NXT UK and NXT Women’s Champion. Gonzalez has been getting comparisons to former Women’s Champions such as Beth Phoenix and Chyna based on their strength and statures.
In preparation for her participating in this weekend’s WarGames match, Gonzalez spoke on The Bump about how much Phoenix has been an inspiration to her.
“I’ve only gotten to pick Beth’s brain when she was here with us at the Mae Young [Tournament], and also when she was able to come to the PC. Obviously, this year has changed a lot of that for all of us,” she said.
“Listening to her commentary each week and her comments on my matches has helped me as well because she’s such an inspirational person, and I do look to her for inspiration [both] outside and inside of the ring. We’re a rare breed. Knowing that she was able to embrace that, and giving me that confidence to embrace that, has really helped me with what I do in the ring.”
Gonzalez did have an opportunity to earn the advantage for WarGames for her team this past week on NXT in a ladder match. She failed to capitalize on the chance as Shotzi Blackheart won.
What have you thought about Raquel Gonzalez’s television debut year? Do you think she may be the determining factor in the WarGames match tonight? Leave your thoughts below.
Credit to Wrestling Inc. for the transcription.
