In the fall of 2024, a unique call to the ring was made by Toni Storm. She challenged Wendi Richter, a retired pro wrestler, to return to the ring for a face-off.
The initial hint at this challenge was dropped in the months prior during the closing press conference of AEW Worlds End, held in December 2023. When questioned about prospective free agents coming into AEW’s fold, Storm’s reply refocused on Richter: “There is money written all over it. Wendi Richter … I’m going to give you a run for your money!”
In a surprising turn of events, Richter addressed the challenge during her signing at the Highspots Virtual Gimmick Table. While she appeared unaware of the call-out, she didn’t shy away from a potential match. “Well, I wasn’t even aware she’d been issuing challenges. Apparently, it’s become routine for her. But, money has its own language. If they can match my price, I’ll be up for the match. I’d even let her take the first shot. Bring it on, Toni. You fancy your chances while facing me? I’m eager to witness it. I’m not intimidated,” she countered.
Never one to back down, Storm replied to these remarks at another signing event, firing back, “Great, you’ve finally broken your silence, Wendi Richter. See you in the squared circle soon, and beware of my slaps.” ”
Recently, Richter did a stint on the “Ring The Belle” podcast where she once again addressed Storm’s statements. She humorously stated that she is prepared to fight the AEW Women’s World Champion for a whopping million.
In response to a query about wrestling Toni Storm, Richter said, “Interesting! I was told, ‘Will you fight Toni Storm?’ My reply was ‘Who is she?’ I was not even aware of her. But, if the deal is right, I’d even fight Mike Tyson. So yes, I am up for any challenge. My offer to you, Toni, is a match for million. Let’s do it.”
Richter is no stranger to prominent fixtures and running with titles. With a remarkable track record that consists of championship titles in both AEW and WWE, she stepped out of the ring for the last time in 2005. Five years later, she was honoured with an induction into the WWE Hall Of Fame in 2010.