During a history-making weekend in London, Rhio managed to win three matches to become the first-ever PROGRESS Wrestling’s Women’s Super Strong Style 16 winner.
Whilst the male version of the tournament has been a staple in PROGRESS Wrestling, 2026 is the first time that an all-female tournament has been held, and on top of that the first round matches were held around the world with those qualifying all competing at the Electric Ballroom.
Rhio managed to get the better of Vert Vixen in Las Vegas to stamp her place in the weekend, and on day one she also overcame Stephanie Maze to get to the final four.
In the semi-finals Rhio defeated Shotzi Blackheart with the crowd split behind both ladies. It was a different story in the final as she faced Gisele Shaw, who hadn’t made friends with the London crowd straight away by demanding she deserved a bye all the way to the final, not just in the first round.
After beating Skye Smitson and Kanji, Shaw was beaten by Rhio, and did at least show respect to the inaugural tournament winner along with the rest of the wrestlers who had been competing. Rhio also commented soon after how grateful she was.
Congratulations to Rhio, and we look forward to seeing what’s next for her in PROGRESS Wrestling, as she no doubt has her eyes on Women’s Champion and former friend Alexxis Falcon.
