Is Bayley the “Bret Hart” of the Women’s Division?
Bayley has long been one of the most influential and respected figures in WWE’s Women’s Division. Despite her impressive accomplishments, many fans and critics feel that she has been somewhat overlooked and underappreciated by management. With her feud with Roxanne Perez being dropped mysteriously, and with what occurred most recently at WrestleMania 41. Bayley was set to compete in a Tag Team Championship match alongside Intercontinental Champion Lyra Valkyria, only to be pulled from the match after a backstage attack. She was replaced by Four Horsewoman member Becky Lynch, who returned to action for the first time since May. This kind of treatment has led fans to believe that WWE does not always recognize her full worth, despite her proven talent and dedication.
Last year, Bayley made a remarkable comeback by winning the Royal Rumble from the number three position and eventually capturing the Women’s Championship at WrestleMania 40. Her victory showed that she can be resilient and has the ability to rise above adversity. However, even after reaching such heights, she has openly expressed feelings of being undervalued. She was interviewed by Chris Van Vliet recently, and she mentioned that she does not see herself on the same level as the other Four Horsewomen, even though fans see her as more relatable, likable, and willing to put others over when it counts. Unlike her counterparts, who sometimes seem less willing to elevate their peers, Bayley has always prioritized the growth of the division over her own personal accolades.
Fans on social media are starting to compare Bayley to Bret Hart in the sense that she is often overlooked or underrated by management despite her talent and dedication. Like Hart, who was respected but sometimes misunderstood within WWE, Bayley’s contributions to the women’s division are immense, but often go unrecognized. Her most notable run was during the Pandemic Era when she carried WWE on her shoulders, showcasing her ability to lead and entertain under challenging circumstances. Since then, fans believe she has not been given the same level of respect or opportunities she truly deserves, even when she was the leader of Damage CTRL. After seeing what has been happening, Bayley’s Four Horsewomen and Boss ‘n’ Hug partner and best friend, AEW’s Mercedes Moné, took to Twitter to pretty much tell Bayley that she should become All Elite. It would be difficult to see, but the way management has been treating her, it probably would not be a surprise.