Bianca Belair, known as the “EST of WWE,” is one of the most dynamic and influential superstars in professional wrestling. With her remarkable athleticism, charisma, and resilience, she has risen quickly through WWE’s ranks to become a standout performer and fan favorite. Belair’s journey is a story of triumph, dedication, and the relentless pursuit of excellence, marking her as a trailblazer in sports entertainment.
Early Life and Athletic Background
Bianca Nicole Crawford, born April 9, 1989, in Knoxville, Tennessee, displayed a passion for sports from a young age. A multi-sport athlete, she excelled in track and field during her high school years, earning All-American honors. She later attended the University of South Carolina and Texas A&M University before transferring to the University of Tennessee, where she continued her track and field career. However, her athletic pursuits were often challenged by a medical condition called intercostal chondritis, causing chest pain and temporarily sidelining her.
Despite this setback, Belair’s competitive spirit remained undiminished. Her dedication and background in athletics made her an ideal candidate for the WWE Performance Center, where she joined in 2016. WWE scouts recognized her potential, and soon, Bianca Belair began to train rigorously in professional wrestling, embracing her athletic background to develop a unique and powerful in-ring style.
Rise Through WWE NXT
Belair quickly made an impact in WWE’s developmental brand, NXT. Her powerhouse persona, combined with her unique hairstyle — a long braid that she wields as both an accessory and a weapon — became signature elements of her character. She often showcased her strength through impressive feats, like effortlessly lifting opponents or performing high-impact maneuvers, earning her the title of the “EST” of WWE, representing that she is the “strongEST,” “fastEST,” and “toughEST” in the ring.
Her competitive spirit and in-ring skills led to a series of high-profile matches in NXT, including challenging Shayna Baszler for the NXT Women’s Championship. Though she didn’t capture the title in NXT, Belair’s performances were consistently remarkable, showcasing her potential as a future star and laying the groundwork for her move to the main WWE roster.
Main Roster Debut and Championship Success
Bianca Belair made her main roster debut in early 2020 on WWE’s Raw, aligning with her husband, WWE Superstar Montez Ford of the Street Profits. Her undeniable talent soon led her to SmackDown, where she began an extraordinary journey that would cement her place in WWE history.
Belair’s breakout moment came at the 2021 Royal Rumble, where she outlasted 29 other women to win the Royal Rumble match. This victory guaranteed her a main-event spot at WrestleMania 37, where she faced Sasha Banks for the SmackDown Women’s Championship. Their WrestleMania match was historic as the first WWE main event to feature two Black women. The bout was critically acclaimed, and Belair’s victory marked her first major championship win, solidifying her as a major star.
Becoming the “EST” of WWE
Bianca Belair’s SmackDown Women’s Championship reign showcased her strength, skill, and dedication to being a role model both in and out of the ring. Her matches highlighted her diverse abilities — from her powerful KOD (Kiss of Death) finisher to her remarkable agility and resilience. Belair continued to grow her reputation as a dominant force in the women’s division, successfully defending her title against top contenders and establishing herself as one of WWE’s premier athletes.
Throughout her career, Belair’s mantra of being the “EST” extends beyond wrestling. She frequently emphasizes her dedication to inspiring young fans, particularly girls and young athletes, showing them the importance of confidence, self-belief, and hard work. Her impact as a public figure extends into the realms of fitness, fashion, and empowerment, and she uses her platform to advocate for positive change.
Historic Moments and Ongoing Success
In addition to her WrestleMania 37 triumph, Bianca Belair has had numerous memorable moments in WWE. Her feuds with wrestlers like Bayley, Becky Lynch, and Charlotte Flair have produced some of the most exciting women’s division matches in recent history. Belair’s intense rivalry with Becky Lynch was particularly significant, as it culminated in another WrestleMania moment where she reclaimed championship gold. The rivalry was a showcase of storytelling and athleticism, with Belair overcoming Lynch in a hard-fought battle that resonated deeply with fans.
Belair’s impact has also been felt outside the ring, where her achievements and persona have garnered mainstream attention. She has appeared on talk shows, magazine covers, and fitness campaigns, extending her influence as an athlete and public figure. Her style, including her custom-made ring gear, often designed by Belair herself, adds to her unique brand and connects her to fans who admire her creativity and individuality.
Legacy and Future in WWE
Bianca Belair’s future in WWE is incredibly bright. As a multiple-time champion and one of the most popular superstars on the roster, she has solidified her place as a central figure in WWE’s women’s division. Fans and analysts alike see her as a potential Hall of Famer in the making, given her rapid ascent and numerous accolades within a short period.
Belair’s journey from track and field athlete to WWE superstar is a testament to her versatility and resilience. Her ability to seamlessly blend athletic prowess with captivating storytelling sets her apart in the world of professional wrestling. Looking ahead, she continues to push boundaries and inspire the next generation of athletes, proving that she is indeed the “EST” of WWE.
Conclusion
Bianca Belair is more than just a WWE superstar; she is an icon of strength, resilience, and empowerment. Her rise from NXT to the pinnacle of WWE reflects her unwavering dedication to excellence and her passion for uplifting others. With her athleticism, creativity, and magnetic personality, Bianca Belair has transformed WWE’s women’s division and left an indelible mark on sports entertainment. As she continues to make history, fans eagerly anticipate what’s next for the “EST” of WWE.