8 Reasons Chyna Deserves WWE Hall Of Fame Induction

By now, you've probably heard of the tragic passing of Joan 'Chyna' Laura. Those familiar with her World Wrestling Federation stint from 1997 to 2001 will need no introduction, but newer fans may not be aware of how influential a figure she truly was.

There's a strong case to suggest that Chyna should be recognised as the most important women's wrestler of the modern era. Although there have been more technically gifted and longer-serving female workers, none have struck as much of a cultural chord as the Ninth Wonder of the World. 

During the Attitude Era she broke down barriers, defied social expectations, and paved the way for much of today's roster.

Many are already calling for Chyna to be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame next year, a course of action which seems a given at this point. It would be a major oversight for WWE to overlook her at the 2017 ceremony, for a multitude of reasons.

Here are the most important.

Chyna was one of the first female superstars to be legitimately placed on equal footing with many of the men.

Although it took a further decade for women's wrestling to earn the respect it deserves in WWE, we wouldn't be seeing the excellent work of Sasha Banks, Bayley, et al. without Chyna's groundwork.

However, it almost never happened - and it's actually quite surreal to imagine what the modern day WWE landscape would look like without her. Vince McMahon was apparently against hiring Chyna in the mid-90s, as he thought fans would find the idea of a woman beating up a man unbelievable.

Luckily, Vince changed is mind - but things could have taken an even more surreal turn had Chyna turned down their offer. Apparently WCW were also interested, and actually wanted to make her the sole female member of the New World Order!