PWI Weekly for May 26, 2025
IYO, EFFY, Macho, And More
APRIL SHOWERS BRING May flowers. Or so the saying goes.
And who doesn’t enjoy seeing brightly colored flowers in bloom at this time of year? Fun fact: Our very own Liz Hunter is quite green-fingered and has won awards for her prized Gladioli.
Pro wrestling has always been a stage for the bold and the beautiful. And so, in this edition of the PWI Weekly, we are celebrating some of the colorful characters who have brightened up the industry. Whether it’s outlandish attire, magnetic charisma, or dazzling in-ring ability, pro wrestling is brimming with people who stand out from the crowd.
WRESTLER OF THE WEEK
In 2025, Iyo Sky has solidified her status as one of WWE’s most dynamic, accomplished grapplers. On March 3, she captured the Women’s World championship from Rhea Ripley, becoming the only woman to win the “grand slam” of titles in both WWE and World Wonder Ring Stardom.
At WrestleMania 41, Sky successfully defended her Women’s World title against Ripley and Bianca Belair in a triple-threat match. In the process, she became the first Japanese woman to win a match at WrestleMania—and the first Japanese-born wrestler, regardless of gender, to win one in 27 years. The sight of Sky’s family crying tears of joy in the crowd after the match was a heart-warming sight.
Beyond her in-ring achievements, Sky’s vibrant persona and eye-catching style make her an instantly recognizable talent in today’s crowded wrestling landscape. And with her unique blend of athleticism and charisma that has transcended language and culture, Iyo Sky is now firmly positioned as one of the top wrestlers in the world. Her success this year stands as proof.
SPOTLIGHT ON …
EFFY has been a standout figure in independent wrestling for a long time. However, in 2025, he took things to a whole new level. “The Weapon Of Sass Destruction” dethroned Mance Warner for the GCW championship on January 19, marking the high point of a long and storied tenure in the promotion.
Since clinching the title, EFFY has defended it against a proverbial murderer’s row of indie talent, and, thus far, has come out successful every time. Without discounting his abilities as an accomplished grappler, EFFY’s success is also due in part to his commitment to always being himself. His career is marked by a dedication to inclusivity and representation in wrestling. By hosting the popular series of “EFFY’s Big Gay Brunch” events, he has provided a platform for LGBTQ+ grapplers, further solidifying his role as an industry trailblazer.
With a larger-than-life persona and a reputation for breaking down barriers, EFFY is one of wrestling’s brightest, most colorful characters. He’s also a darn fine GCW champion, who is going to be tough to topple.
WE HEARD THAT
“They were considering doing Halloween costumes. That’s weird. Who wants to dress up as that?”
— Karrion Kross, in reference to his 2021 gladiatorial helmet and harness outfit.
In a recent interview with Sam Roberts, the WWE star revealed that when he first debuted on the main roster in 2021, the company had plans to merchandise his gear. The aesthetic—which was almost universally panned by fans—has thankfully been replaced by a style more suited to modern times (and Kross himself).
FROM THE VAULT
Last week marked the 14th anniversary of the passing of “Macho Man” Randy Savage—one of the most iconic wrestlers in history. Savage wasn’t just a wrestler; he was a force of nature. With his raspy voice, explosive energy, and outlandish outfits, he defined what it means to be “colorful.”
From unforgettable feuds with Hulk Hogan to his WrestleMania III classic with Ricky Steamboat, Savage brought a flair to everything he ever did. Interviews felt like Shakespeare on speed, and every match was must-see TV. Whether it was the flying elbow drop, his relationship with Miss Elizabeth, or simply shouting “Ooooh yeah!” to the heavens, “Mach” painted his wrestling career in a vibrant palette. Fourteen years later, the legacy of Randy Savage still shines. In an often sepia world, he truly was technicolor.
Loved the Macho Man…until the cowboy hat came out. That’s Wrestling’s Jump the Shark moment…before and after the hat. Before-there was greatness…after, he became a comic book character.