What a whirlwind week it’s been in the world of professional wrestling! From high-octane showdowns on AEW Collision to the crowning of trailblazing champions in WWE, fans have been treated to a smorgasbord of action, drama, and history-making moments. As the dust settles on the week of September 7 through September 13, 2025, the wrestling community is buzzing with excitement, debate, and anticipation for what’s next.
AEW Collision, held on September 13, 2025, stood out as one of the marquee events of the week, drawing eyes from across the globe. The night’s card was stacked, but two matches in particular had fans on the edge of their seats. Jon Moxley and Daniel Garcia teamed up to face the formidable duo of Roderick Strong and Kyle O’Reilly, a bout that promised—and delivered—hard-hitting action and technical prowess. Meanwhile, the AEW Unified Championship was on the line as Kazuchika Okada locked horns with Michael Oku in a contest that showcased the very best of international wrestling talent.
Jon Moxley, known for his relentless style and never-say-die attitude, brought his trademark intensity to the ring. Partnered with the fast-rising Daniel Garcia, the pair faced a stern test in Strong and O’Reilly—both of whom have made names for themselves with their tactical acumen and tag team chemistry. The match was a rollercoaster of momentum swings, with each team seizing control at various points. Fans in attendance and those watching at home were treated to a masterclass in tag team wrestling, with near-falls and dramatic saves keeping everyone guessing until the final bell.
Not to be outdone, the AEW Unified Championship match between Kazuchika Okada and Michael Oku was a true showcase of what makes professional wrestling such a beloved spectacle. Okada, already a legend in his own right, faced a hungry challenger in Oku, who has been turning heads with his athleticism and heart. The stakes couldn’t have been higher, and both competitors rose to the occasion. Okada’s experience and ring awareness were on full display, but Oku’s resilience and daring nearly stole the show. The crowd was electric, hanging on every move as the two battled for supremacy in a match that will surely be remembered as one of the year’s best.
While AEW Collision delivered in the ring, the conversation among fans quickly shifted to the latest round of wrestler rankings, as compiled by Cageside Seats. This weekly tradition allows fans to vote for the performers who impressed them most, and the results carry weight—not just for bragging rights, but for the ongoing annual competition for the coveted Cageside Cup Performer of the Year.
For the week spanning September 7 to September 13, 2025, AJ Lee emerged as the top performer, capturing the imagination of fans with her in-ring charisma and storytelling ability. According to Cageside Seats, "That couple’s on-screen reunion gave us 40% of our latest Top Ten, and 60% of the Top Five," underscoring the impact of compelling narratives in wrestling. Becky Lynch and John Cena tied for second place, both bringing their unique brands of star power to the table. Rusev’s victory in a Good Ol’ Fashioned Donnybrook in Paris secured him fourth place, while CM Punk rounded out the Top Five, proving that his connection with the audience remains as strong as ever.
Darby Allin, Seth Rollins, Kyle Fletcher, Giulia, and Roman Reigns also made the Top Ten, each leaving their mark during a week packed with memorable performances. The rankings serve not only as a snapshot of the current landscape but also as a barometer for long-term success. Points accrued each week contribute to the annual race for the Cageside Cup, and as of the week ending September 6, Toni Storm leads the pack with 74 points, followed by Naomi with 49 and Seth Rollins with 45. Hangman Page, CM Punk, John Cena, Gunther, Jacob Fatu, Stephanie Vaquer, and Ron “R-Truth” Killings round out the top contenders, highlighting the depth of talent across the industry.
But perhaps the most significant development in wrestling this year has been the introduction of the first-ever Women's Intercontinental Championship in WWE. The title was officially crowned on January 13, 2025, during an episode of Raw on Netflix, marking a watershed moment for women’s wrestling. The inaugural champion was determined through an explosive tournament, setting the stage for a new era of competition and opportunity.
As of June 7, 2025, Becky Lynch holds the distinction of being the current Women's Intercontinental Champion. She captured the title by defeating Lyra Valkyria at the Money in the Bank event, adding yet another accolade to her already storied career. Lynch’s reign has been characterized by fierce defenses and a determination to elevate the championship’s prestige. Her presence at the top of the division has inspired both her peers and a legion of fans worldwide, cementing her status as one of the most influential figures in the sport.
Reflecting on her journey, Lynch has often spoken about the importance of representation and breaking barriers. Her victory at Money in the Bank was not just a personal triumph, but a symbolic moment for women’s wrestling as a whole. The creation of the Women’s Intercontinental Championship has opened new pathways for female competitors, offering them another platform to showcase their skills and vie for glory.
With so much talent vying for recognition, the race for the Cageside Cup Performer of the Year is heating up. Weekly rankings can shift dramatically based on standout performances, surprise returns, and unforgettable promos. Fans are encouraged to cast their votes, with the simple rules ensuring a fair and spirited competition: five spots on each ballot, no repeat picks, and the option to split votes among multiple wrestlers. As Cageside Seats puts it, "Let’s have those ballots! We’ll take it from there, and see you back here in a week for the results and another vote!"
As September rolls on, the wrestling world shows no signs of slowing down. AEW continues to push boundaries with must-see matches and international showdowns, while WWE’s evolving landscape offers fresh opportunities for both established stars and rising newcomers. With Becky Lynch leading the charge as Women’s Intercontinental Champion, and fan favorites like AJ Lee, John Cena, and Toni Storm lighting up the rankings, there’s never been a better time to be a wrestling fan.
For now, the spotlight remains firmly on those who delivered unforgettable moments this week. Whether it was a hard-fought victory, a history-making championship win, or a crowd-pleasing promo, the passion and energy of professional wrestling are alive and well. And as the competition for the Cageside Cup intensifies, one thing’s for sure: the best is yet to come.
