8 Major Ways MMA Is Influencing WWE

8. The Rise Of Shayna Baszler And The Four Horsewomen Of MMA

Let's start with the most immediate sign of MMA's creeping influence in WWE: Shayna Baszler. The 37 year old is a veteran of 26 fights, and this aspect of her background formed the basis of her character presentation in the Mae Young Classic.

Having stormed to the finals, defeating each of her opponents via rear naked choke, Baszler's legitimate fighting background is clearly being put over strong. Not only that, but she also stared down three of WWE's four horsewomen (Becky Lynch, Charlotte and Bayley) while being backed up by her three fellow horsewomen of MMA - including megastar Ronda Rousey.

The two groups later had a showdown, sparking rumours of an eventual clash of sorts - potentially a traditional Survivor Series bout or WrestleMania showcase.