Photo Credit- Impact Wrestling
As the year comes to a close, it’s easy to reminisce on some of wrestling’s highlights from 2021. Whether these are the best matches, moments, or the best wrestlers. Many wrestlers have had outstanding years, such as Roman Reigns, Kenny Omega, or Shingo Tagaki. But when it comes to the best women’s wrestler of 2021, I believe that Deonna Purrazzo is the sound recipient of that award.
Purrazzo started off the year as Impact Knockouts Champion, winning the title back from Su Yung at Turning Point on November 14, 2020. The Virtuosa held the title for nearly a year, successfully defending the strap fourteen times before eventually losing the title to Mickie James at Bound For Glory. She defeated several high level opponents including Taya Valkyrie, Rok-C, and Thunder Rosa. Impact is known for its incredibly talented Knockouts division, and Purrazzo was able to stand head and shoulders above the rest, feeling like a true star.
Deonna didn’t just make headlines as Knockouts Champion, having a wide variety of memorable moments during 2021. During this year Purrazzo: became Impact Homecoming Queen, won the AAA Reina de Reinas Title, was ranked 3rd in PWI’s Top 150 Women Wrestlers of 2021, and retired Jazz after beating her at Hardcore Justice. Purrazzo was given the spotlight to shine countless times this year, and has continued to earn the trust and hype given to her.
Purrazzo’s schedule is only getting more crowded as 2022 approaches. She is currently in the title picture for three championships over the upcoming months. Firstly she has been challenged by a returning Taya Valkyrie for her AAA Reina de Reinas Title. Next she is getting her rematch for the Knockouts Title against Mickie James at Hard To Kill. Deonna has also challenged Rok-C for her Ring of Honor Women’s Championship in a winner take all match, which will take place sometime soon.
Deonna Purrazzo has become one of the best female wrestlers of today, skyrocketing her stock over the past two years. Purrazzo has had an absolutely phenomenal 2021 and is in my opinion the greatest women’s wrestler of the year.
