Natalya's WWE Legacy: A Look At Her Most Memorable Matches

Natalya Neidhart, often known simply as Natalya, is a name synonymous with dedication, skill, and longevity in WWE. As a third-generation wrestler and a graduate of the Hart Dungeon, Natalya carries a rich wrestling heritage that's evident in her technical prowess and in-ring psychology. Throughout her career, she has faced a myriad of opponents, each match contributing to her storied legacy. In this article, we will delve into some of Natalya's most memorable matches, highlighting the moments that have defined her as one of the most respected female performers in WWE history. Let's get started, wrestling fans!

A Hart Family Legacy

Before diving into specific matches, it's crucial to understand the foundation upon which Natalya's career was built. The Hart family is wrestling royalty, and the Hart Dungeon is legendary for producing some of the most technically gifted wrestlers in the business. Growing up in this environment, Natalya absorbed not just wrestling moves but also the ethos of respect for the sport, hard work, and dedication to the craft. This upbringing instilled in her a deep understanding of wrestling fundamentals, which she seamlessly blended with her own unique style.

Natalya's training in the Hart Dungeon equipped her with a diverse skill set, including an array of submission holds, suplexes, and innovative transitions. Her technical expertise allows her to adapt to various opponents and match stipulations, making her a versatile performer capable of delivering compelling matches across different styles. Beyond her physical abilities, Natalya's understanding of ring psychology and storytelling elevates her matches, drawing audiences into the drama and emotion of each encounter. She understands how to build tension, create believable near-falls, and connect with the crowd, making her matches captivating from start to finish.

Natalya’s early career saw her honing her skills in various independent promotions and international circuits before making her way to WWE. These experiences allowed her to refine her in-ring abilities, develop her character, and gain valuable exposure to different wrestling styles. Her journey to WWE was a testament to her hard work and determination, as she constantly sought to improve and prove herself as a worthy successor to the Hart family legacy. When she finally arrived in WWE, she was well-prepared to make an immediate impact and establish herself as a force to be reckoned with in the women's division.

Natalya vs. Charlotte Flair (NXT, 2014)

One of Natalya's most acclaimed matches came against Charlotte Flair at NXT TakeOver in 2014. At this point, NXT was rapidly evolving from a developmental territory to a must-see brand, showcasing some of the most exciting wrestling talent in the world. This match was a pivotal moment for both Natalya and Charlotte, as well as for the burgeoning women's division in WWE. The match was for the NXT Women’s Championship, adding significant stakes to the encounter. Natalya, the seasoned veteran, faced Charlotte, the up-and-coming second-generation star, creating a compelling dynamic of experience versus potential.

The match itself was a masterclass in storytelling and in-ring technique. Natalya and Charlotte showcased their exceptional wrestling abilities, seamlessly transitioning between holds, counters, and high-impact moves. The pacing was deliberate, allowing the drama to build gradually as both women fought tooth and nail for the championship. Natalya's technical expertise was on full display as she targeted Charlotte's limbs with various submission attempts, while Charlotte responded with her signature athleticism and resilience. The crowd was invested in every near-fall and reversal, creating an electric atmosphere that added to the overall excitement of the match.

A particularly memorable moment occurred when Natalya locked in the Sharpshooter, a signature submission hold of the Hart family. The crowd erupted as Charlotte struggled to escape, adding an emotional layer to the match. Charlotte eventually found a way to break free and ultimately secured the victory with her Natural Selection finisher, capturing the NXT Women’s Championship. Despite the loss, Natalya's performance was widely praised, as she proved that she could still compete at the highest level and elevate emerging talents like Charlotte. This match not only solidified Charlotte's status as a future star but also cemented Natalya's reputation as a respected and invaluable asset to WWE.

Natalya vs. Sasha Banks (Raw, 2017)

In 2017, Natalya and Sasha Banks engaged in a heated rivalry that produced several memorable matches. One standout encounter took place on Monday Night Raw, where Natalya and Sasha battled in a competitive and hard-fought contest. Their contrasting styles meshed well, with Natalya's technical prowess complementing Sasha's high-flying offense and aggressive attitude. The match was filled with innovative spots and believable near-falls, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats.

Sasha Banks, known as "The Boss," brought her signature swagger and intensity to the match, while Natalya countered with her technical precision and veteran savvy. The two women exchanged a series of holds and maneuvers, each trying to gain the upper hand. Natalya's Sharpshooter was once again a prominent feature, as she sought to secure the victory with the iconic submission hold. However, Sasha's resilience and determination allowed her to escape the hold and mount a comeback.

The match reached its climax with a series of fast-paced exchanges, culminating in Sasha Banks hitting her Bank Statement submission hold to secure the victory. Despite the loss, Natalya's performance was commendable, as she showcased her ability to adapt to different opponents and match styles. The match was a testament to the depth and talent of the women's division, as Natalya and Sasha proved that they could deliver compelling and competitive matches on a consistent basis. Their rivalry continued to unfold in subsequent weeks, with each match adding layers to their storyline and further solidifying their positions as top performers in WWE.

Natalya vs. Ronda Rousey (Raw, 2018)

In 2018, Natalya found herself in a prominent storyline with Ronda Rousey, the former UFC champion who had recently transitioned to WWE. Natalya and Ronda developed a close friendship on-screen, with Natalya serving as a mentor and training partner for the newcomer. Their alliance eventually led to a highly anticipated match on Monday Night Raw, where they showcased their skills in a competitive and respectful contest.

The match was significant for several reasons. Firstly, it marked one of Ronda Rousey's first major singles matches in WWE, providing her with an opportunity to demonstrate her progress and adaptability in the world of professional wrestling. Secondly, it allowed Natalya to showcase her ability to work with and elevate new talents, further solidifying her role as a respected veteran in the women's division. The match was a blend of technical wrestling and MMA-inspired offense, as Natalya and Ronda incorporated elements of both styles into their repertoire.

Natalya's technical expertise was on full display as she guided Ronda through various sequences and transitions, ensuring that the match flowed smoothly and logically. Ronda, in turn, showcased her raw athleticism and intensity, impressing audiences with her rapid improvement and commitment to the craft. The match culminated in Ronda Rousey securing the victory with her signature armbar submission, further establishing her dominance in WWE. Despite the loss, Natalya's contributions to the match were invaluable, as she helped Ronda gain confidence and credibility in her new role.

Natalya vs. Becky Lynch (SummerSlam, 2019)

At SummerSlam 2019, Natalya challenged Becky Lynch for the Raw Women's Championship in a Submission Match. This stipulation added a unique dynamic to the encounter, as both women were known for their proficiency in submission holds. The match was a grueling and intense battle, with both Natalya and Becky showcasing their resilience and determination.

The Submission Match format allowed Natalya to utilize her technical skills to their fullest extent, as she relentlessly targeted Becky's limbs with various submission attempts. Becky, known as "The Man," countered with her signature offense and her own array of submission holds, creating a back-and-forth battle of wills. The match was filled with innovative spots and near-submissions, keeping the audience engaged and invested in the outcome.

One memorable moment occurred when Natalya locked in the Sharpshooter, attempting to secure the victory with the iconic Hart family submission hold. However, Becky Lynch refused to submit, showcasing her toughness and determination. Becky eventually managed to apply the Dis-Arm-Her, her own signature submission hold, forcing Natalya to tap out and retain her Raw Women's Championship. Despite the loss, Natalya's performance was widely praised, as she proved that she could still compete at the highest level and deliver compelling matches against top stars like Becky Lynch. The match was a testament to the depth and talent of the women's division, as Natalya and Becky showcased their skills in a high-stakes encounter.

Legacy and Impact

Natalya's contributions to WWE extend far beyond individual matches. She has been a consistent and reliable performer for over a decade, serving as a mentor and role model for younger talents. Her dedication to the craft, her professionalism, and her unwavering commitment to excellence have earned her the respect of her peers and the admiration of fans worldwide.

Natalya's matches have not only entertained audiences but have also helped to elevate the women's division in WWE. She has consistently delivered quality performances, regardless of her position on the card, and has played a crucial role in the development of many of today's top female stars. Her willingness to work with and elevate new talents has made her an invaluable asset to the company.

In conclusion, Natalya's WWE legacy is defined by her technical prowess, her dedication to the Hart family legacy, and her unwavering commitment to excellence. Her most memorable matches showcase her ability to adapt to different opponents and match stipulations, as well as her capacity to elevate those around her. As she continues to compete in WWE, Natalya remains a respected and admired figure, and her contributions to the world of professional wrestling will undoubtedly be remembered for years to come. So next time you see Natalya in the ring, remember the legacy she carries and the impact she has had on WWE! Thanks for reading, guys!