WWE Hall of Famer Booker T has publicly endorsed former NXT standout Stephanie Vaquer as the ideal contender to capture the vacant WWE Women’s World Championship, a title recently relinquished by Naomi due to pregnancy. This endorsement comes amid mounting excitement as WWE prepares for a high-stakes championship showdown at the upcoming Wrestlepalooza event on September 20, 2025.
Naomi’s maternity leave announcement on the August 18 episode of Raw left the Women’s World Championship vacant, prompting WWE officials, led by Raw General Manager Adam Pearce, to orchestrate a marquee matchup to crown a new champion. Pearce officially announced that Stephanie Vaquer and IYO SKY will battle for the prestigious title at Wrestlepalooza in Indianapolis, making this bout the first announced match for WWE’s new premium live event on ESPN’s streaming platform[1][3][5].
Stephanie Vaquer, who first made waves within WWE’s NXT system and has since impressed on the main roster, earned her title shot by triumphing in the Battle Royal at WWE Evolution 2025. This victory helped secure her spot in the championship match, showcasing her resilience and rising star power within the women’s division. IYO SKY, another formidable competitor, had initially been scheduled to face Naomi before the champion’s withdrawal, making the upcoming match a culmination of a long-anticipated rivalry[1][3].
Booker T, a respected voice in the wrestling world and a WWE Hall of Famer, shared his perspective on the situation during a recent podcast appearance. He pinpointed Vaquer as the “perfect candidate” to carry the Women’s World Championship forward, praising her in-ring skills, charisma, and ability to connect with fans both domestically and internationally. “Stephanie has the experience, the look, and the talent that WWE needs at the forefront of the women’s division,” Booker stated. “She’s ready to be that breakthrough star who elevates the belt and the entire women’s roster.” Sources close to Booker revealed that he sees Vaquer as a transformative force who can usher in a new era of competition and storytelling for WWE women’s wrestling[Source: WrestlingInc podcasts, August 2025].
The history of the Women’s World Championship adds weight to this forthcoming showdown. Established originally as the SmackDown Women’s Championship in 2016, it underwent rebranding after the 2023 WWE Draft, reflecting WWE’s evolving landscape in women’s professional wrestling. The title has headlined multiple major events, including WrestleMania and the groundbreaking Evolution pay-per-view, underscoring its significance within WWE’s female division[2].
With Wrestlepalooza set to be streamed live on ESPN and Netflix worldwide, the championship match promises elevated visibility for Stephanie Vaquer, IYO SKY, and the women’s roster as a whole. WWE’s strategic placement of this title match as a centerpiece of the event highlights the company’s commitment to spotlighting female talent at a premium level. According to WWE.com, the match contract signing will even take place during the September 8 episode of Raw, building momentum as the event approaches[1][3][5].
Backstage sources indicate that WWE officials are excited about the Vaquer vs. SKY booking, viewing it as an opportunity to launch a compelling storyline that could extend well beyond Wrestlepalooza. The company reportedly values Vaquer’s international appeal, particularly in Latin American markets, and sees her championship reign as a way to broaden WWE’s reach globally[Source: Fightful insider reports, September 2025].
Beyond her technical prowess, Vaquer is praised for her engaging promos and versatility in various match types, making her a well-rounded champion candidate. Booker T also mentioned in his interviews that Vaquer’s backstage demeanor and work ethic align with WWE’s culture, which is essential for a champion expected to be the brand’s ambassador[Source: Booker T podcast, WrestlingInc].
As the WWE Universe eagerly awaits September 20, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Booker T’s prediction holds true. Naomi’s departure opened the door for a new generation of female superstars to stake their claim, and Stephanie Vaquer stands poised on the brink of a career-defining moment. Whether she or IYO SKY emerges victorious, the match promises to be a pivotal chapter in WWE’s ongoing commitment to elevating women’s wrestling to new heights.
This Wrestlepalooza Women’s World Championship match is not only about crowning a new champion but also about cementing the women’s division as a central pillar of WWE’s entertainment product in 2025 and beyond. WWE’s decision to feature Vaquer and SKY clearly signals their intent to invest in fresh, dynamic talent that can carry storylines and enthrall audiences worldwide.
For continuous updates on the WWE Women’s World Championship picture, sources such as WWE.com, Fightful, and exclusive podcast appearances by industry veterans like Booker T will provide authoritative insights leading up to the event.
In conclusion, WWE and Booker T’s backing spotlight Stephanie Vaquer as the frontrunner to claim the vacant Women’s World Championship, reinforcing her status as an emerging star ready to make a significant impact on the sport. The upcoming Wrestlepalooza event will be crucial in defining the next era for WWE’s prestigious women’s title.