WWE has given its support for Natalya’s appearance at the NWA Crockett Cup. This is more than a one-off appearance; it signals a shift in the way these two organizations interact.
The NWA has a rich history and legacy. It was formed in 1948, acting in the role of a governing body for regional wrestling promotions. Eastern States Championship Wrestling (ESCW), promoted by Jim Crockett Sr., joined the NWA in 1950 and changed its name to Jim Crockett Promotions (JCP) in 1952. JCP represented the organization with its show names having "NWA" in the titles. However, JCP was such a major presence on national television, many fans considered JCP to be the NWA, instead of a member of the governing body. Jim Crockett Jr. created the Crockett Cup in honor of his father and the event was held annually by the NWA (via JCP) in the late 1980s. The NWA has been undergoing a resurgence in recent years, now under the leadership of Billy Corgan since 2017. The promotion is carving a new niche, appealing to longtime fans of traditional wrestling as well as a new generation of fans. The appearance of Natalya, whose fanbase transcends generations, will be a significant step in this process.
The cooperation between WWE and the NWA is worthy of attention primarily because it opens up a world of new possibilities. It again demonstrates a willingness on the part of WWE to acknowledge and engage with other promotions, potentially leading to more collaborative ventures in the future. For the NWA, it potentially provides a valuable platform to showcase its talent and brand to a wider audience.
While WWE is often perceived as only operating within its own domain, history shows that they have engaged in cross-promotional activities, even before the current WWE NXT/TNA relationship, and WWE's recent collaborations with NOAH and AJPW. For example, in the past, WWE had a working relationship with NJPW, and even feuded with the USWA. However, the current level of cooperation, especially under Triple H's leadership, marks a new era. This is shown by WWE allowing Natalya to compete at the NWA Crockett Cup.
A total package on WWE's roster, Natalya has a great mind for the pro-wrestling business and represents the company very well. Plus, when WWE needs someone to work with newer female talent on the main roster or in NXT, Natalya is the wrestler WWE turns to. With 25 years of in-ring experience, she is well-suited for the role of representing the partnership between WWE and the NWA. Natalya will bring credibility to the Crockett Cup, and her presence will add prestige to the event, attracting attention from fans. NWA events include talent that is not familiar to the majority of the wrestling audience- this helps to keep the interest of wrestling fans, who are always interested in seeing something new. Natalya will attract fans to the NWA Crockett Cup who will be checking out the NWA for the first time, and the "new faces" of the NWA will turn them into fans of the promotion. This will lead to the NWA becoming more popular.
Most importantly, Natalya will be in action, competing in a match at the Crockett Cup, adding a competitive element to her appearance that notably increases the event's appeal. This is the best way for the NWA to show the WWE Universe what the NWA roster brings to the table. But a question remains- what will Natalya's match be at the Crockett Cup?
The best option is a match between Natalya and NWA World Women's Champion Kenzie Paige. She is the most familiar woman wrestler on the NWA roster, not only because Paige is its world champion, but also because she has appeared on national television, as well as wrestled in IWA MS and SHIMMER. A match between Natalya and Paige, with the NWA World Women's Championship on the line, would be very beneficial no matter who wins.
If Kenzie Paige successfully defendeds the NWA World Women's Championship, defeating someone of Natalya's level of recognition would boost Paige's credibility as a world champion. And if Natalya defeats Paige to become the new NWA World Women's Champion, the championship would become one of the most legitimate world women's championships in the industry, via it being held by a WWE Superstar.
Even if Natalya were NWA World Women's Champion for only a couple of months, it would boost the championship's image. A WWE Superstar as NWA World Women's Champion would garner attention from the pro-wrestling media, and if Natalya went on to defend it at a WWE event, the NWA World Women's Championship's history in WWE could be promoted. For example, it was defended at WWE events in the early 1980s. Meanwhile, the NWA World Women's Championship would be getting exposure om WWE's global platform.
Also, a WWE Superstar added to the NWA World Women's Championship lineage would be a positive for the NWA years after they eventually lose the championship. Natalya is a top member of the WWE roster, and she is currently associated with the world women's championships owned by only one company: WWE. Natalya as NWA World Women's Champion would add the NWA to that very exclusive list.
In any case, Natalya's appearance will be a competitive one that will reshape the landscape of professional wrestling. As we look ahead to The 2025 Crockett Cup, it will be interesting to see what this collaboration will be like and what it means for the future of both WWE and the NWA. As Natalya said via X, "Best is yet to come."
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