Sophie Cunningham Responds to WOW Invite, Teases WWE or AEW Future
INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - JULY 24: Sophie Cunningham #8 of the Indiana Fever during the game against the Las Vegas Aces at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on July 24, 2025 in Indianapolis, Indiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)
Sophie Cunningham, an Indiana Fever guard known for her fiery competitiveness and unapologetic edge on the court, is now experiencing a noteworthy crossover moment.
We would love to have @SophieCunning5 join us at @wowsuperheroes she is talented, dedicated and a fierce competitor!! https://t.co/dRtiQdAIST
— Jeanie Buss (@JeanieBuss) July 27, 2025
In an exclusive interview with LandonBuford.com, Cunningham said, “Man, I have no idea! I thought that tweet was pretty funny. I don’t know what will come of it—I’m still really focused on basketball—but it is kind of cool. I’ve been a lifelong WWE fan since I was little, so it’s definitely something that would be fun to get into.”
A WNBA Star with WWE Dreams
Despite her WNBA career with the Indiana Fever being her sole focus, Sophie Cunningham‘s openness to professional wrestling has been a catalyst for fan imaginations. Considering that fellow athletes like Shaquille O’Neal, Ronda Rousey, and Logan Paul have all landed in the wrestling ring with varying degrees of success and spectacle, this crossover isn’t outlandish. Cunningham’s natural fit for the wrestling world stems from her charisma, toughness, and willingness to take on physical challenges. From hardwood to squared circle, her blend of athleticism and showmanship could easily be translated.
Jeanie Buss and WOW: A Strategic Invitation
Jeanie Buss’ tweet to Cunningham wasn’t an isolated incident. Buss, who was instrumental in reviving Women of Wrestling (WOW) and empowering female athletes through sports entertainment, has a keen eye for crossover stars who embody both strength and personality. Her interest in bringing basketball’s intensity to wrestling storytelling is apparent through her outreach to Sophie. Major network syndication and the growing appetite for diverse, women-led sports content have led WOW to experience a resurgence. Bringing in a high-profile athlete like Sophie Cunningham would be beneficial in elevating the brand, attracting WNBA fans, and bridging the gap between professional sports and sports entertainment.
Sophie Cunningham’s Dream Opponent and Tag Team Partner
When asked about who she’d face in the ring if given the chance to compete in WWE or AEW, Cunningham laughed and admitted, “I don’t know!” But could so imagine some of the potential stories.
Let’s take a look at two crucial matchups that could be storyline options.
Dream Opponent: Rhea Ripley (WWE)
Rhea Ripley, a former two-time WWE Women’s champion and former member of WWE’s Judgment Day, would be a captivating dream opponent. Both athletes radiate fearless intensity, and Ripley’s aggressive style would complement Sophie’s aggressive nature. A clash of strong-willed women who don’t back down would be represented in the matchup. A storyline that involves mutual respect transforming into a rivalry could easily lead to a stunning match at a major WWE Premium Live Event like WrestleMania or SummerSlam.
Potential Tag Team Partner: Jade Cargill (WWE/AEW)
Jade Cargill, the former AEW TBS Champion now signed with WWE, would be the best match for Sophie’s energy in a tag team format. Both possess strong physiques and a no-nonsense outlook. By combining strength, athleticism, and attitude, they could dominate the women’s tag division together. The combination of Cargill’s wrestling skills and Cunningham’s real-life edge would result in an instant fan favorite pair.
Crossover Potential: More Than Just a Gimmick
Cunningham’s professional wrestling crossover, if it ever comes to fruition, would be much more than a publicity stunt. The WNBA has experienced a resurgence in popularity, and stars like Cunningham, Caitlin Clark, and A’ja Wilson have global followings. The prospect of these athletes crossing over into entertainment properties helps elevate the visibility of women’s sports and expand their cultural impact. In a media arena where athletes build personal brands beyond their sport, Sophie Cunningham embraces her love for WWE, demonstrating her willingness to evolve and reach out to broader audiences.
Why WWE and AEW Should Pay Attention
To engage fans, WWE and AEW are constantly searching for new talent and fresh storylines. The integration of real-world athletes has been a winning formula, and Sophie Cunningham’s natural charisma, media savvy, and competitive fire are perfectly suited for wrestling’s high-drama environment. Cunningham has a good chance of being accepted into either WWE’s NXT or AEW’s Collision and Dynamite as a guest enforcer, commentator, or part-time in-ring talent. Her story could mirror Bianca Belair’s, who was also a former college athlete before transitioning into one of WWE’s biggest stars.
The Role of Social Media in Driving the Conversation
In today’s social media-driven sports world, a tweet is all it takes to plant a seed. Fan creations include mock posters, fantasy match cards, and dream scenarios featuring Sophie and some of wrestling’s biggest names. Social media is a crucial component of athlete-fan interaction, and Cunningham’s tweet highlights how a single message can open doors and initiate meaningful conversations about crossover possibilities.
Focus on the Present: Basketball First
Basketball remains Sophie Cunningham’s top priority, despite the excitement. The Indiana Fever guard continues to work tirelessly on improving her game and making an impact on the court. The Fever’s rebuild requires her leadership, tenacity, and fiery passion, and she has become one of the WNBA’s most spirited competitors. It’s wise to leave the door open for future endeavors, and her fans will keep a close watch on her career and social media feeds.
Conclusion: From the Court to the Ring?
Sophie Cunningham’s encounter with Jeanie Buss and WOW has sparked a thrilling discussion that highlights the growing prominence of athletes in pop culture. With her lifelong love for WWE, her elite athleticism, and undeniable charisma, Sophie has all the tools to make a seamless transition from professional basketball to sports entertainment when the time is right. The basketball world will keep enjoying her fiery performances in the WNBA until then, but wrestling fans are anticipating a surprise debut sometime soon.
