WWE’s Mickie James blasts sexism and ageism in wrestling

WWE superstar Mickie James has hit out at ageism towards older women.

The 41-year-old wrestler – who is a five-time Women’s and one-time Divas Champion – has addressed the way the industry treats male and female stars as they get older, and insisted in the eyes of some people she should have retired years ago despite still being able to perform at a high level.

She was responding to a tweet from new NXT signing Taya Valkyrie, who wrote: ‘Why do people talk about age like it’s a negative??? Just think, you woke up today, you are blessed to see another morning….. never forget that. Age brings, wisdom, experience, confidence. It’s a blessing (sic)’

Mickie agreed with the sentiment, and then discussed the sexism in the wrestling industry when it comes to older women.

In a series of tweets, she said: ‘I agree 1000 percent. But in this industry once you hit 35 it’s perceived you should start wrapping it up and retire as a women. Even though your just hitting you stride. At 40 “retire already”

‘Even though the men are champs well into there 50s and glorified for it. Sad but true… With age comes a strength and wisdom that you can’t teach. I feel more powerful & sexy than I ever have.

‘Yet it is only this way because this is the narrative we’ve accepted to be ok. We’ve pushed this mindset & it’s damn time we changed it. Times have changed. And so have we! (sic)’

A fan replied asking if the likes of Jazz, 48, and ODB, 42, in IMPACT Wrestling will help changed public perception.

Mickie replied: ‘I love them so much. And hell yeah!! (sic)’

Meanwhile, the current SmackDown star – whose most recent in-ring appearance came at the Royal Rumble in January – later clarified that she wasn’t attacking anyone for the spots they have in the business.

She wrote: ‘I feel I need to say this as I would never want to feel as if I had offended a brother. I am in NO WAY discrediting the men in our industry! They have EVERY reason to be there & to be celebrated!

‘I myself would jump at the opportunity to share the [same[ ring with them. I have nothing but love and respect for EVERYONE I’ve shared the ring, locker room, busses, & road with.

‘Whether it’s 1st day or last day on the job you deserve that respect & I hope I always gave it. The cream ALWAYS rises & should be APPLAUDED! I was merely stating an obvious truth. (sic)’

Got a story?

If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@metro.co.uk, calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.

MORE : NWA and AEW events on Virgin: Nick Aldis promises UK wrestling fans won’t be ‘second best’ anymore

MORE : WWE Hall of Fame ceremony confirmed for WrestleMania week with 2020 and 2021 classes inducted