Kelly Kelly’s ‘exhibitionist’ character would not fly in the world of professional wrestling in 2024, according to the former WWE Divas Champion.
Kelly, real name Barbie Blank, debuted in WWE’s ECW in 2006 and would often tease exposing herself before being stopped by on-screen boyfriend Mike Knox.
On a recent edition of the “Insight” podcast, Kelly discussed her time as an exhibitionist and recalled her awkward start in the business. She said,
“Never in a million years [would the gimmick work in 2024] and it’s so wild to think that’s how I started.
“I just started dancing and [it was] so bad. It took me twenty minutes to get my bra off. So embarrassing!”
After her debut, Kelly was hit with The Sandman’s Singapore Cane during her second appearance and said that WWE “were just putting me through the ringer.”
Kelly Kelly, also known as Barbie Blank, recently revealed that her ‘exhibitionist’ character from her time in WWE would not be accepted in the world of professional wrestling in 2024. The former WWE Divas Champion discussed her experience on a podcast called “Insight” and reflected on her awkward start in the business.
Kelly Kelly made her debut in WWE’s ECW in 2006 and quickly gained attention for her provocative character. She would often tease exposing herself before being interrupted by her on-screen boyfriend, Mike Knox. However, Kelly believes that this type of gimmick would not be well-received in today’s wrestling landscape.
In the podcast interview, Kelly expressed her surprise at how she began her career and stated, “Never in a million years [would the gimmick work in 2024] and it’s so wild to think that’s how I started.” She also shared an embarrassing moment from her early days, saying, “I just started dancing and [it was] so bad. It took me twenty minutes to get my bra off. So embarrassing!”
Kelly’s journey in WWE was not without its challenges. During her second appearance, she was hit with The Sandman’s Singapore Cane, which she described as WWE “putting me through the ringer.” Despite the difficulties, Kelly went on to achieve success in the company, becoming the WWE Divas Champion in 2011.
The evolution of professional wrestling over the years has seen a shift towards more progressive and inclusive storylines and characters. The portrayal of women in wrestling has also changed significantly, with a greater emphasis on their athleticism and skill rather than their sexuality.
In recent years, WWE has made efforts to promote women’s wrestling as a legitimate and respected part of the industry. The company introduced the Women’s Revolution, which aimed to provide female wrestlers with more opportunities and showcase their abilities in the ring. This shift in focus has led to the rise of talented female wrestlers who are celebrated for their in-ring performances rather than their appearance alone.
Kelly Kelly’s comments highlight the changing landscape of professional wrestling and the need for more diverse and empowering representations of women in the industry. While her ‘exhibitionist’ character may have been accepted in the past, it is clear that times have changed, and wrestling fans now expect more from their female performers.
As the industry continues to evolve, it is important for wrestlers and promotions to adapt to the changing expectations and values of the audience. The focus on athleticism, storytelling, and inclusivity has become paramount, creating a more progressive and exciting environment for both wrestlers and fans alike.
Kelly Kelly’s journey in WWE serves as a reminder of the progress that has been made in professional wrestling and the importance of embracing change. While her character may not be suitable for today’s wrestling landscape, her experiences have contributed to the ongoing evolution of the industry, paving the way for a more inclusive and empowering future.