In an electrifying turn of events, All Elite Wrestling (AEW) star “Timeless” Toni Storm is set to make a rare appearance outside her home promotion at Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre’s (CMLL) Viernes Espectacular on October 11, 2024. During CMLL’s Noche de Campeones on Friday, September 27, fans were treated to a surprise video announcement revealing that the former AEW Women’s World Champion will face Chilean rising star La Catalina in a singles match, promising a fierce battle between the two world-class wrestlers.
Storm’s appearance in CMLL comes at a time when her wrestling career is taking on a new dimension. Known for her impeccable skill and dynamic persona, she is no stranger to competing globally. Her upcoming match at Stardom’s October 5 event in Japan adds to a busy October for the New Zealand-Australian wrestler, who has proven herself as one of the most sought-after talents in women’s professional wrestling.
But what’s behind this recent surge of international bookings for Toni Storm? And who exactly is her opponent, La Catalina? Let’s take a closer look at the factors shaping this upcoming match at CMLL’s iconic Friday night event.
The Rise of “Timeless” Toni Storm
Toni Storm (real name Toni Rossall) is no stranger to success in the world of professional wrestling. At just 28 years old, she has already carved out a remarkable career, being a three-time AEW Women’s World Champion, a record she shares with a select few. Her journey to stardom began at an early age, having moved from her native New Zealand to Australia’s Gold Coast after her parents separated. By age 10, she was captivated by the world of WWE, sparking her lifelong passion for professional wrestling.
Storm’s path to the top of the industry started in the UK, where she trained extensively and honed her craft. Her time in WWE saw her capture the NXT UK Women’s Championship and win the Mae Young Classic in 2018, before eventually joining AEW in 2022. Since then, she has cemented her status as one of the elite women in the sport, adopting the larger-than-life persona of “Timeless” Toni Storm in 2023—a character inspired by the Golden Age of Hollywood. This persona shift added a dramatic flair to her already exceptional in-ring abilities, making her a marquee attraction wherever she competes.
Storm’s rivalry with fellow AEW star Hikaru Shida, along with her involvement with the AEW stable The Outcasts, helped her gain further popularity. However, it was her “Timeless” persona that truly catapulted her into the wrestling stratosphere. With her sharp wit, exaggerated mannerisms, and over-the-top vignettes, she has become a fan favorite—and now, her star power is expanding beyond AEW’s borders.
La Catalina: Chilean Star on the Rise
On the other side of the ring will be La Catalina (born Catalina García), a Chilean wrestler who has been making waves in CMLL since her debut earlier this year. At just 24 years old, La Catalina has already accumulated significant experience, including a stint with WWE under the ring name Katrina Cortez. Her time in WWE, though brief, was historic as she was the first female Chilean wrestler to sign with the company at the age of 18.
After leaving WWE in 2021, La Catalina relocated to Mexico, where she continued her wrestling career in the independent circuit. Her work in the Big Lucha promotion helped her develop a name for herself, leading to her eventual signing with CMLL in March 2023. A bold and unique decision saw her voluntarily remove her mask before her CMLL debut, a move highly unusual in the world of lucha libre, where unmasking is often seen as the ultimate sign of defeat.
La Catalina has since built a reputation as one of the top rising stars in CMLL, boasting an impressive rivalry with fellow Chilean wrestler Stephanie Vaquer. Despite undergoing surgery in August 2024, she has returned with renewed vigor, ready to take on the global stage once again.
What’s at Stake?
For Toni Storm, her appearance at CMLL’s Viernes Espectacular is a statement of her dominance in the wrestling world. Competing outside of AEW showcases her versatility and international appeal, reminding fans that she’s more than just a top name in North America. With her October 5 match at Stardom in Japan, Storm is set to prove her mettle across multiple wrestling cultures.
As for La Catalina, this match is a golden opportunity to solidify her status as a top talent, not just in CMLL but globally. Wrestling a seasoned veteran like Storm, especially one as decorated and popular as her, will give La Catalina the platform to demonstrate her skills in front of a broader audience.
The October 11 showdown will likely be a test of Storm’s experience against La Catalina’s hunger for international recognition. The match has all the makings of a classic: Storm’s technical prowess and in-ring charisma versus La Catalina’s lucha libre flair and determination. Wrestling fans from around the world will have their eyes on CMLL’s Viernes Espectacular, eager to witness the outcome of this exciting bout.
Final Thoughts
As Toni Storm continues her journey across wrestling promotions in Japan, Mexico, and the United States, her match against La Catalina adds another chapter to her already storied career. For La Catalina, this match presents an opportunity to shine on a bigger stage and prove that she belongs among the best.
On October 11, 2024, CMLL’s Viernes Espectacular will host what promises to be one of the most talked-about matches of the year. For now, wrestling fans can only wait in anticipation for what is sure to be an unforgettable clash between two incredible talents.
Stay tuned to Fajador.co for more updates and live coverage of this monumental event.
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