Mickie James is a true icon in the realm of women’s professional wrestling. She showcased her talent in various promotions, including the National Wrestling Alliance, Ring of Honor, Total Nonstop Action (TNA) Wrestling, and Ohio Valley Wrestling, before making a significant impact in WWE in 2005.
James enjoyed a remarkable career with WWE, with her first tenure concluding in 2010 and her second in 2021. She is a five-time WWE Women’s Champion and a one-time WWE Divas Champion. Between her WWE stints, she also competed in TNA, Global Force Wrestling, and several independent promotions.
Her extensive experience in professional wrestling makes her an ideal coach for the upcoming television series “WWE Legends and Future Greats,” also known as “WWE LFG.” The reality show, set to premiere on Sunday, will feature James alongside The Undertaker, Booker T, and Bubba Ray Dudley as they mentor the next generation of wrestling talent, providing viewers with an inside look at what it takes to succeed in the industry.
In a recent interview, James shared that identifying the key characteristics she looks for in a wrestler can be challenging, as it varies based on each competitor’s background and experience. “Each person you have to coach so differently depending on where they are in their wrestling journey,” she noted. “I always say that what makes a superstar is the ability to tap into what makes you unique, whether physically or emotionally, and amplifying that.”
James emphasized that in wrestling, standing out is crucial. “The last thing you want is to be like everyone else. You want to be larger than life. The qualities that set us apart are often the ones we suppress due to societal pressures to conform.”
She expressed her enthusiasm for coaching on the show and the opportunity to work alongside WWE legends. James believes her unique career path allows her to connect with the “Future Greats” more effectively. “I went through the developmental system and then made it to television, so I can relate to what they are experiencing,” she explained. “It’s been a lot of fun, and I feel like I’m constantly learning while getting to know these talents in a more formal and creative way.
