There are few women who have had a greater impact on the sustainability of women's wrestling in the United States than Trish Stratus and Lita. Their epic rivalry brought greater focus and emphasis to the sport and allowed fans to take Divas seriously for the first time. In the fall of 2006, Stratus announced her retirement from the sport after six years on top. At that September's Unforgiven pay-per-view, live from Stratus' hometown of Toronto, they would bring to an end their vendetta in a women's championship bout labeled as Stratus' final match. With friends and family watching, the blonde bombshell wrestled one last epic match, overcoming her dastardly opponent and trapping Lita in the Sharpshooter for the tapout victory. The fans in Toronto came unglued for the finish, appreciating Trish's homage to legendary Canadian star Bret "Hitman" Hart. Cheers rained down on the new champion and tears flowed freely as she celebrated with the title one last time. It was a fitting conclusion to the Hall of Fame career of Stratus and a moment that helped her go out with her head held high.
Erik Beaston is a freelance pro wrestling writer who likes long walks in the park, dandelions and has not quite figured out that this introduction is not for Match.com. He resides in Parts Unknown, where he hosts weekly cookouts with Kane, The Ultimate Warrior, Papa Shango and The Boogeyman. Be jealous.
