The end of the year is rapidly approaching and as much as 2020 was an unattractive and jarring experience it did provide us with some excellent wrestling performances.
When COVID-19 shut the world down WWE, AEW and IMPACT were able to continue delivering weekly shows but without live crowds in attendance. The lack of fans heightened the action and the wrestling in the ring.
Those in WWE, AEW and IMPACT were able to experiment within the crowd-less environment, whereas those on the independent scene were raring to get in the ring once restrictions were lifted.
The wrestler’s performances were under the microscope more than ever as fans watching were not distracted by the hustle and bustle of a crowd and focused only on those in the ring. This, in turn, allowed the wrestlers elevate their game and add an extra emphasis on their performances between the ropes.
This year had given us a plethora of amazing and standout female wrestlers from which to choose and the list has moved and changed many times, but it is finally complete. So without further delay, let’s get to the top 10 women wrestlers of 2020.
10. Hikaru Shida
Hikaru Shida is the most consistent performer in AEW’s women’s division and is undefeated in singles action throughout the entire year.
Her performances are slick, swift and highly skilled. Through these strong and reliable matches, Shida has constantly proven herself to the shining light of AEW’s female roster.
Shida was awarded for her efforts when she was crowned the AEW Women’s World Champion at All In on May, 23 when she defeated Nyla Rose in a No Disqualification match. Since winning the title she successfully defended it against all comers.
Here are three standout matches from Shida’s excellent year.
Hikaru Shida vs Britt Baker – AEW Dynamite, May, 8.
Hikaru Shida vs Penelope Ford – Fyter Fest
Hikaru Shida vs Thunder Rosa – All In
9. Deonna Purrazzo
The “Virtuosa” has been on an excellent run since WWE released her April. Purrazzo turned up on IMPACT Wresting with a point to prove and prove it she has. Within three matches in the company, Purrazzo was the Knockout’s champion, dethrowning Jordynne Grace in an excellent match.
Purrazzo and Grace had another phenomenal match at Emergence in IMPACT Wrestling’s first-ever thirty-minute Iron Woman match. The match allowed Purrazzo to be herself and really showcase her technical and submission prowess.
Purazzo has rejuvinated and redefined her career this year. She entered IMPACT Wreslting with a purpose and is the top heel in the company and a two-time Knockout’s champion.
Deonna Purrazzo vs Jordynne Grace – Slammiversary XVIII
Deonna Purrazzo vs Jordynne Grace – Emergence.
Deonaa Purrazzo vs Su Yung – Turning Point
8. Serena Deeb
Serena Deeb’s 2020 is one of achievement and triumph. Deeb exploded back on the scene after a three-year absence when she made her debut on AEW to face Thunder Rosa on Dynamite. Within minutes Deeb showed the wrestling world that she hadn’t missed a step and proved herself to one of the best wrestlers this year.
Deebs’ performance in her return match was so good that AEW signed her to a contract and she has thrived ever since. Her NWA Women’s World Championship win against Rosa in an excellent encounter was a testament to her drive and determination and validation for all of her hard work throughout the years.
Her in-ring work is smooth, slick and beautful to watch. Deeb has represented both AEW and NWA in incredible style and is every bit the rightful champion. Her return to the ring in such empahatic fashion is 2020’s best success story.
Serena Deeb vs Thunder Rosa – AEW Dynamite Sep 2.
Serena Deeb vs Allysin Kay – All Out.
Serena Deeb vs Thunder Rosa – AEW Dynamite Nov 18.
