Bianca Belair: The StrongEST, FastEST, and GreatEST in WWE
Bianca Belair is a dominant force in professional wrestling. The American athlete signed with WWE in 2016 and quickly made her mark on the SmackDown brand. Belair’s 420-day reign as Raw Women’s Champion is the longest in the championship’s history.
Belair’s athletic background includes All-SEC and All-American honors in track and field at the University of Tennessee. Her strength, speed, and agility translate perfectly to the wrestling ring, where she lives up to her self-proclaimed title as the “EST of WWE”—the strongest, fastest, and greatest competitor.
Early Life and Athletic Background
Bianca Belair’s journey to WWE stardom began in Knoxville, Tennessee. Her remarkable athletic abilities were evident from a young age, setting the stage for her future success in professional wrestling.
The University of Tennessee and Track Achievements
At the University of Tennessee, Belair excelled in track and field. She specialized in hurdles and earned All-American and All-SEC honors. Her impressive performances on the track showcased her speed, agility, and competitive spirit.
Belair’s academic prowess matched her athletic achievements. She was named to the SEC Academic Honor Roll, demonstrating her commitment to excellence on and off the track.
Transition to CrossFit and Powerlifting
After her collegiate career, Belair explored new athletic pursuits. She embraced CrossFit, a high-intensity fitness regimen that combines weightlifting, cardio, and functional movements.
Belair’s strength and power continued to develop through powerlifting. This transition allowed her to build upon her track background while gaining new skills that would prove valuable in her future wrestling career.
Her diverse athletic experiences in CrossFit and powerlifting helped shape her into a well-rounded athlete, laying the foundation for her success in WWE.
Professional Wrestling Career
Bianca Belair’s wrestling journey began in 2016 when she signed with WWE. Her athleticism and natural charisma quickly propelled her to success in NXT before she became a top star on the main roster.
Beginning at the WWE Performance Center
Belair joined the WWE Performance Center in 2016, impressing coaches with her strength and agility. She excelled in Performance Center combines, showcasing her exceptional athleticism. Belair adopted the moniker “EST of NXT,” highlighting her status as the strongest, fastest, and toughest competitor.
Her in-ring debut came at an NXT live event in September 2016. Belair’s unique hair whip move and powerful offense helped her stand out from other recruits. She continued to hone her skills and develop her character over the next year.
Highlights in NXT
Belair made her NXT TV debut in May 2017 and quickly became a fan favorite. She entered the inaugural Mae Young Classic tournament and reached the second round. In 2018, Belair had an impressive showing in the NXT Women’s Championship match at TakeOver: Phoenix.
Her undefeated streak in NXT lasted nearly a year before ending in April 2019. Belair feuded with top stars like Shayna Baszler and Rhea Ripley. She reached the finals of the 2020 Women’s Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic alongside Candice LeRae.
Ascent to Main Roster Success on Raw and SmackDown
Belair debuted on the main roster in April 2020 as part of Raw. Later that year, she was drafted to SmackDown, where her star continued to rise. In 2021, Belair won the Women’s Royal Rumble match, earning a WrestleMania title shot.
At WrestleMania 37, Belair defeated Sasha Banks in a historic main event to win the SmackDown Women’s Championship. She held the title for 133 days before losing to Becky Lynch at SummerSlam. Belair won the Raw Women’s Championship at WrestleMania 38, holding it for a record-breaking 420 days.
Her accolades include being #1 in Pro Wrestling Illustrated’s top 150 female wrestlers in 2021. Belair has feuded with top stars like Charlotte Flair and Bayley. She continues to be one of WWE’s most popular and accomplished performers.
Signature Matches and Championships
Bianca Belair has achieved numerous milestones in her WWE career, including historic WrestleMania moments, Royal Rumble victories, and championship reigns. Her accomplishments have solidified her status as one of the top performers in women’s wrestling.
WrestleMania Milestones
Belair made history at WrestleMania 37 by main eventing night one against Sasha Banks. This match marked the first time two Black women headlined WrestleMania. Belair emerged victorious, capturing the SmackDown Women’s Championship.
At WrestleMania 38, Belair faced Becky Lynch for the Raw Women’s Championship. In another stellar performance, she defeated Lynch to claim her second major title on WWE’s grandest stage.
Royal Rumble Victories
Belair’s breakout moment came at the 2021 Royal Rumble. She entered at number 3 and lasted over 56 minutes, eliminating four competitors to win the Women’s Royal Rumble Match. This victory earned her a championship opportunity at WrestleMania 37.
Her Royal Rumble success continued in 2023 when she reached the final four of the match, showcasing her endurance and in-ring prowess.
Reign as SmackDown Women’s Champion
After winning the title at WrestleMania 37, Belair held the SmackDown Women’s Championship for 133 days. During her reign, she successfully defended the title against formidable opponents like Bayley and Carmella.
Belair’s championship run highlighted her versatility as a performer, combining athleticism with charisma. Her reign ended at SummerSlam 2021 but cemented her status as a top star on the SmackDown brand.
Personal Life and Legacy
Bianca Belair, born Bianca Nicole Blair on April 9, 1989, is married to fellow WWE wrestler Montez Ford. The couple married in 2018 and often showcased their relationship on social media and WWE programming.
As an African American athlete, Belair has become a role model for many. She uses her platform to inspire others and promote diversity in professional wrestling.
Before her wrestling career, Belair competed as a fitness and figure competitor. This background has contributed to her impressive athleticism and strength in the ring.
Belair’s impact on the wrestling world has been significant. She has been recognized by Pro Wrestling Illustrated, ranking in their top female wrestlers list. Her performances have also earned her an ESPY Award nomination.
Mark Henry, a WWE Hall of Famer, played a crucial role in Belair’s wrestling journey. He discovered her talent and encouraged her to pursue a career in WWE.
Belair’s legacy extends beyond her in-ring accomplishments. She is considered one of the top female wrestlers of the modern era, breaking barriers and setting new standards for athleticism and performance in professional wrestling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Fans often question Bianca Belair’s personal life, career, and background. Here are answers to some common inquiries about the WWE superstar.
Who is Bianca Belair’s husband?
Bianca Belair is married to fellow WWE wrestler Kenneth Crawford, better known by his ring name Montez Ford. The couple married in June 2018.
What does ‘EST’ stand for in Bianca Belair’s persona?
‘EST’ in Bianca Belair’s persona stands for “the strongest, the fastest, the roughest, the toughest, the quickest, the greatest, the best.” It’s a key part of her character and catchphrase.
How did Bianca Belair begin her career in wrestling?
Bianca Belair began her wrestling career in 2016 when she signed with WWE. She started training at the WWE Performance Center and made her in-ring debut in NXT live events that same year.
What is Bianca Belair’s net worth or annual salary?
The exact figures for Bianca Belair’s net worth and salary are not publicly disclosed. However, as a top WWE performer, she likely earns a substantial income from her wrestling career and related endorsements.
Which college did Bianca Belair attend, and what was her major?
Bianca Belair attended the University of Tennessee. She was a track and field athlete, competing in hurdles. Her major is not widely publicized.
Is Bianca Belair related to Naomi or Jade Cargill in any way?
Bianca Belair is not related to Naomi or Jade Cargill. Despite their shared profession and similar athletic backgrounds, they are separate individuals with no familial connection.
