Natalya's WWE Career: A Look At Her Greatest Matches

Natalya Neidhart, often known simply as Natalya, is a name synonymous with dedication, skill, and longevity in WWE. Hailing from the legendary Hart wrestling family, Natalya has carved out an impressive career spanning over a decade, marked by numerous championships and memorable matches. In this comprehensive overview, we'll explore Natalya's most significant matches, highlighting her evolution as a performer and her contributions to women's wrestling.

Early Career and Rise to Prominence

Before gracing the WWE stage, Natalya honed her craft in various independent circuits, carrying the Hart family torch with pride. Her technical prowess and natural charisma quickly caught the attention of WWE scouts, leading to her signing with the company in 2007. Initially, she trained in Florida Championship Wrestling (FCW), WWE's developmental territory, where she refined her skills and developed her character. During her time in FCW, Natalya showcased her versatility and determination, setting the stage for her eventual main roster debut. Her early matches in FCW demonstrated her commitment to upholding the Hart family legacy and her eagerness to make a name for herself in the wrestling world. These formative experiences were crucial in shaping her into the seasoned performer fans know and love today.

Natalya's official WWE debut came in 2008 on SmackDown, aligning herself with Victoria. This marked the beginning of her journey on the main roster, where she immediately made an impact with her technical wrestling skills and undeniable presence. Her early matches on SmackDown were a testament to her training and her determination to prove herself among the top female competitors in WWE. She quickly became a prominent figure in the women's division, showcasing her ability to adapt to different opponents and match styles. These initial years were pivotal in establishing Natalya as a force to be reckoned with, setting the foundation for her future success and accolades.

Memorable Matches and Championship Reigns

Natalya vs. Michelle McCool (Survivor Series 2010)

One of Natalya's defining moments came at Survivor Series in 2010, where she faced Michelle McCool for the Divas Championship. This match was a showcase of Natalya's technical wrestling abilities and her determination to capture the title. The match was hard-fought, with both competitors displaying their signature moves and strategies. Natalya's performance was particularly impressive, as she demonstrated her resilience and her ability to withstand McCool's offense. The crowd was fully invested in the match, creating an electric atmosphere that added to the excitement. Ultimately, Natalya emerged victorious, capturing the Divas Championship and solidifying her place as a top contender in the women's division. This victory was not only a personal triumph but also a testament to her years of hard work and dedication to the sport. The match remains a memorable moment in Natalya's career and a highlight of the Divas era.

Natalya vs. Charlotte Flair (NXT TakeOver 2014)

In 2014, Natalya faced Charlotte Flair at NXT TakeOver in what many consider one of the greatest women's matches in NXT history. This match was a masterclass in storytelling and in-ring psychology, with both Natalya and Charlotte delivering exceptional performances. The match was emotionally charged, as it highlighted the legacies of their respective families, the Harts and the Flairs. Natalya's experience and technical skills were on full display, while Charlotte showcased her athleticism and natural charisma. The match featured several near-falls and dramatic moments, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats. Although Natalya was unsuccessful in capturing the NXT Women's Championship, her performance was widely praised, and the match helped elevate the status of women's wrestling in NXT. This match is a testament to Natalya's ability to adapt to different opponents and her commitment to delivering memorable performances.

Natalya vs. Sasha Banks (Raw, August 21, 2017)

A noteworthy encounter occurred on Raw in August 2017 when Natalya clashed with Sasha Banks for the Raw Women's Championship. This match was a testament to both wrestlers' skills and their ability to create a compelling narrative in the ring. The match was filled with intense action and dramatic moments, as both Natalya and Sasha showcased their signature moves and strategies. Natalya's experience and technical prowess were evident, while Sasha's athleticism and charisma added to the excitement. The crowd was fully invested in the match, creating an electric atmosphere that enhanced the overall experience. Natalya ultimately emerged victorious, capturing the Raw Women's Championship and proving that she was still a force to be reckoned with in the women's division. This victory was a significant milestone in her career, demonstrating her resilience and her ability to compete at the highest level. The match remains a memorable moment in Natalya's career and a testament to her enduring impact on women's wrestling.

Tag Team Success and Partnerships

Natalya's career isn't solely defined by her singles accomplishments. She has also achieved considerable success in the tag team division, forming memorable partnerships with various wrestlers. One notable alliance was with Beth Phoenix, forming the "Divas of Doom." Together, they dominated the women's division with their strength and intimidation, challenging the conventional image of female wrestlers. Their partnership was a refreshing change of pace and showcased Natalya's ability to adapt to different roles and storylines. The Divas of Doom left a lasting impact on WWE, paving the way for future female tag teams and demonstrating the potential for women's wrestling beyond singles competition.

Another significant partnership was with Tamina. Natalya and Tamina formed a formidable tag team, utilizing their combined experience and skills to challenge for the Women's Tag Team Championships. Their alliance was built on mutual respect and a shared desire to succeed in the tag team division. They worked well together, complementing each other's strengths and covering each other's weaknesses. Their tag team matches were often characterized by their teamwork and their ability to outmaneuver their opponents. While their partnership had its ups and downs, it demonstrated Natalya's versatility and her ability to thrive in different team dynamics. Their tag team journey added another layer to Natalya's already impressive career.

Natalya's Impact and Legacy

Natalya's contributions to WWE extend beyond her championship wins and memorable matches. She has consistently served as a role model for aspiring wrestlers, demonstrating professionalism, dedication, and a strong work ethic. Her longevity in the business is a testament to her commitment to her craft and her ability to adapt to the ever-changing landscape of professional wrestling. She has been a mentor to many up-and-coming female wrestlers, sharing her knowledge and experience to help them succeed. Her influence on the women's division is undeniable, as she has played a key role in elevating the status of women's wrestling in WWE.

Furthermore, Natalya has been a vocal advocate for animal rights, using her platform to raise awareness and support various animal welfare organizations. Her passion for animal welfare is evident in her social media posts and her involvement in charitable initiatives. She has used her celebrity status to make a positive impact on the world, inspiring others to join her in her efforts to protect animals. Her advocacy work has earned her respect and admiration from fans and fellow wrestlers alike. Her commitment to social causes adds another dimension to her public persona and demonstrates her desire to use her influence for good.

The Future of Natalya's Career

As Natalya continues her WWE journey, her future remains bright. With her wealth of experience and her unwavering dedication, she is poised to continue making significant contributions to the women's division. She has proven time and again that she can adapt to any situation and deliver memorable performances. Whether she is competing for championships, mentoring young talent, or advocating for social causes, Natalya remains a valuable asset to WWE. Her fans eagerly anticipate her future matches and storylines, knowing that she will always bring her A-game to the ring. Her enduring presence in WWE is a testament to her talent, her work ethic, and her passion for professional wrestling.

In conclusion, Natalya's career in WWE is a story of hard work, perseverance, and dedication. From her early days in FCW to her championship reigns and memorable matches, she has consistently demonstrated her commitment to excellence. Her impact on the women's division is undeniable, and her legacy as one of the greatest female wrestlers of all time is secure. As she continues her journey, fans can look forward to more exciting moments and memorable matches from this trailblazing performer.