WWE Total Divas: Lana's Controversial Departure and Ronda Rousey's Rise
The Impact of WWE Total Divas on Women's Wrestling
WWE Total Divas debuted with a wave of criticism but ultimately became a pivotal platform for female wrestlers to assert their presence in the industry. The show's success contributed to the launch of the Women’s (R)Evolution, which aimed to elevate the status of women in wrestling and dismantle existing barriers.
Premiering in the summer of 2013 on the E! Network, WWE Total Divas aired for nine seasons over nearly seven years, featuring various cast changes due to scheduling issues and network requirements.
Lana, a fan-favorite, appeared in Seasons 6 and 7 of WWE Total Divas but announced her exit during a February 2019 episode of Lilian Garcia's "Chasing Glory" podcast. She expressed her belief that WWE removed her from the show to make way for Ronda Rousey, who was set to headline the final two seasons.
Lana's Sarcastic Remarks About Ronda Rousey
WWE Total Divas star possibly shared real-life heat with Ronda Rousey
During the podcast, Lana sarcastically criticized Rousey for becoming the main focus of WWE Total Divas starting from season 8. She mocked Rousey’s Olympic bronze medal achievement, suggesting that it did not qualify her as the best.
Lana accused Rousey of hypocrisy, pointing out her previous disdain for reality television and stars like The Bella Twins, only to embrace the format herself. While the authenticity of their rivalry remains uncertain, Lana never returned to WWE Total Divas after her comments.
Ronda Rousey, on the other hand, became a central figure in the show's eighth and ninth seasons, offering fans an unprecedented glimpse into her life. The former WWE Women’s Champion aimed to showcase her ability to balance her demanding wrestling career with her tranquil home life at Browsey Acres in California.