Alexa Bliss Vs. Mickie James: A 2017 WWE Rivalry
The Alexa Bliss vs. Mickie James rivalry in 2017 was a compelling storyline that showcased a clash of generations and styles within WWE's women's division. Alexa Bliss, known for her cunning and manipulative persona, was the reigning Raw Women's Champion, while Mickie James, a seasoned veteran with a storied career, returned to WWE seeking to prove she could still compete at the highest level. This feud captivated audiences with its mix of personal attacks, in-ring action, and underlying themes of respect and relevance.
The Genesis of the Rivalry
The rivalry began in September 2017 when Mickie James returned to Monday Night Raw. Initially, she was presented as a respected figure, a legend returning to add experience and depth to the women's division. However, Alexa Bliss, ever the opportunist, quickly began to disrespect Mickie, making fun of her age and accomplishments. This set the stage for a deeply personal and intense feud. Alexa's mockery wasn't just playful banter; it was often cruel and demeaning, targeting Mickie's age and implying she was past her prime. These insults struck a nerve with both Mickie and the audience, who rallied behind the veteran.
Alexa's tactics were classic heel behavior, designed to generate heat and draw sympathy for her opponent. She would use her microphone skills to deliver scathing promos, often punctuated with condescending nicknames and belittling comments. Mickie, on the other hand, responded with a mix of anger and determination, vowing to show Alexa that experience and skill were still valuable assets in the wrestling world. The initial interactions between the two were filled with tension, setting the stage for their eventual matches.
The personal nature of the feud quickly escalated. Alexa's insults became more pointed, and Mickie's resolve to silence her grew stronger. The dynamic between the two was fascinating, with Alexa representing the new generation of WWE superstars and Mickie embodying the legacy of women's wrestling. This contrast added depth to the storyline, making it more than just a simple good versus evil narrative. It was a battle for respect, relevance, and recognition.
Key Moments and Matches
Their feud culminated in several high-profile matches, each with its own memorable moments. At TLC: Tables, Ladders & Chairs in October 2017, Alexa Bliss defended her Raw Women's Championship against Mickie James. The match was hard-fought, with both women showcasing their skills and determination. Alexa ultimately retained her title, but not without a tough fight from Mickie, proving that the veteran could still hang with the best.
Leading up to TLC, the verbal sparring between Alexa and Mickie intensified. Alexa continued to mock Mickie's age, even presenting her with a walker and adult diapers as a supposed gag gift. These segments were controversial, with some viewers finding them humorous and others considering them disrespectful. Regardless, they generated significant buzz and further fueled the animosity between the two wrestlers. Mickie, for her part, responded with passion and intensity, promising to make Alexa pay for her insults.
The TLC match itself was a physical and emotional battle. Mickie came close to winning the title on several occasions, but Alexa managed to escape with the victory. The match was a testament to Mickie's resilience and Alexa's resourcefulness. Even though Mickie didn't win the championship, she proved that she was still a force to be reckoned with in the women's division. The rivalry continued after TLC, with the two women engaging in further matches and confrontations.
One notable moment occurred on an episode of Raw when Mickie teamed with Bayley to face Alexa and Dana Brooke. During the match, Alexa continued to taunt Mickie, leading to several heated exchanges. The rivalry also saw interference from other wrestlers, adding another layer of complexity to the storyline. Despite the various twists and turns, the central theme remained the same: Alexa's disrespect versus Mickie's determination to prove her worth.
The Impact and Aftermath
The Alexa Bliss vs. Mickie James feud had a significant impact on the Raw women's division. It elevated both wrestlers and provided a compelling storyline that resonated with fans. Alexa Bliss continued her reign as a dominant champion, while Mickie James proved she could still compete at a high level. The rivalry also highlighted the importance of respecting veterans and acknowledging the contributions of past generations.
Alexa's character work during this feud was particularly noteworthy. She excelled at playing the role of a cunning and arrogant champion, using her words and actions to generate heat and draw sympathy for her opponents. Her ability to connect with the audience, whether they loved her or hated her, made her one of the most compelling figures in WWE. Mickie, on the other hand, brought a sense of legitimacy and experience to the rivalry. Her passion and determination resonated with fans, who appreciated her willingness to stand up to Alexa's disrespect.
After their feud, both women continued to have successful careers in WWE. Alexa remained a top star, winning multiple championships and participating in high-profile storylines. Mickie continued to compete and mentor younger wrestlers, eventually transitioning into a backstage role. The rivalry between the two remains a memorable chapter in the history of WWE's women's division, showcasing the blend of athleticism, storytelling, and character work that makes professional wrestling so compelling.
The feud also sparked conversations about ageism in professional wrestling. Some fans and critics argued that Alexa's insults towards Mickie were insensitive and perpetuated harmful stereotypes about older athletes. Others defended the storyline as a form of entertainment, arguing that it was simply part of Alexa's character. Regardless of one's perspective, the rivalry undoubtedly raised awareness about the challenges faced by veteran wrestlers and the importance of respecting their contributions.
The Legacy of the Rivalry
In conclusion, the Alexa Bliss vs. Mickie James rivalry was a significant moment in WWE history. It was a clash of generations, a battle for respect, and a showcase of talent. While Alexa Bliss solidified her position as a top heel, Mickie James reminded everyone of her enduring legacy. This feud remains a testament to the power of storytelling in wrestling and the ability of two talented performers to create compelling drama in the ring.
The rivalry's legacy extends beyond the specific matches and moments. It represents a broader trend in WWE towards recognizing and celebrating the contributions of women wrestlers. Mickie James' return and her feud with Alexa Bliss helped pave the way for other veterans to return to the company and play meaningful roles. The storyline also demonstrated the importance of intergenerational rivalries, which can add depth and complexity to the product.
Moreover, the Alexa Bliss vs. Mickie James feud contributed to the ongoing evolution of women's wrestling. It showcased the diversity of talent and styles within the division, and it demonstrated that women could be just as compelling and entertaining as their male counterparts. The rivalry also helped to break down stereotypes and challenge traditional notions of what women's wrestling should be. In this sense, the feud was not just a personal battle between two wrestlers, but also a symbol of progress and change within the industry.
The storyline also highlighted the importance of strong character work in professional wrestling. Alexa Bliss' portrayal of a cunning and arrogant champion was essential to the success of the feud. Her ability to generate heat and draw sympathy for Mickie James made the rivalry more engaging and meaningful. Similarly, Mickie James' portrayal of a determined and resilient veteran resonated with fans, who appreciated her willingness to stand up to Alexa's disrespect. Without strong character work, the feud would not have been nearly as effective.
Finally, the Alexa Bliss vs. Mickie James rivalry serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting wrestling history. Mickie James is a legend in the industry, and her return to WWE was a significant event. The feud with Alexa Bliss allowed her to showcase her skills and experience to a new generation of fans. It also provided an opportunity to educate viewers about the history of women's wrestling and the contributions of pioneers like Mickie James. In this sense, the rivalry was not just a personal battle between two wrestlers, but also a celebration of the past and a bridge to the future.
