Jeanie Buss, part-owner of Women of Wrestling (WOW) and governor of the Los Angeles Lakers, recently sparked conversation by revealing her enthusiasm for Sophie Cunningham possibly competing in professional wrestling. This unexpected link connects the Indiana Fever guard to a new opportunity beyond basketball, showing promise for a crossover into the wrestling world.
Cunningham, who previously played for the Phoenix Mercury, has drawn significant attention in 2024 for her tough defensive role supporting star teammate Caitlin Clark. Her readiness to serve as Clark’s enforcer on the court has been notable, earning her both criticism and admiration. Buss, holding ownership in WOW, has taken notice of Cunningham’s physicality and public profile.
Support from WOW Owners at San Diego Comic-Con Fuels Speculation
At a recent San Diego Comic-Con event promoting the WOW brand, both Jeanie Buss and co-owner David McLane openly expressed their desire to see Cunningham step into the wrestling ring. This announcement received considerable interest from fans and media, laying the groundwork for potential future involvement.
The idea quickly reached Cunningham herself, who was candid when asked about her thoughts on entering the wrestling scene. Although she remains primarily focused on her basketball career, Cunningham did not dismiss the possibility of exploring pro wrestling in the future.
Sophie Cunningham’s Reaction Reveals Genuine Interest in Wrestling
In an interview with journalist Landon Buford, Cunningham commented on the wrestling proposal, showing both surprise and curiosity. She admitted she found Buss’s tweet about the idea amusing and expressed that while basketball remains her main priority, the prospect of wrestling carries a certain excitement for her.
“I thought that tweet was pretty funny. I don’t know what will happen with that. I’m still just kind of focused on basketball. But it is kind of cool,”
Cunningham said.
“I’ve been a lifelong WWE fan for a really long time. Ever since we were little. So, I think it would be something kind of fun to get into.”
—Sophie Cunningham, WNBA Player
When asked about match preferences, including the possibility of a tag team match in WWE or AEW, Cunningham admitted uncertainty but remained open to the idea. Despite the ambiguity surrounding whether WWE or AEW would pursue her, her connection with WOW through Buss presents a realistic path into professional wrestling.
Potential Impact and Future Prospects for Cunningham’s Wrestling Path
At 28 years old, Sophie Cunningham stands at an interesting crossroads where her athletic skills on the basketball court could translate into wrestling entertainment. With WOW currently broadcasting on platforms like Roku, Vice TV, and Pluto TV, the promotion offers a visible stage that might facilitate her transition.
Jeanie Buss’s influence as both a Lakers executive and WOW part-owner may be a valuable factor in orchestrating Cunningham’s debut in professional wrestling. If this crossover happens, it could mark a unique moment where a WNBA athlete expands her career into a highly physical and performance-driven arena.
For now, Cunningham’s primary focus remains basketball, but her openness to professional wrestling suggests exciting possibilities ahead for fans of both sports and entertainment.