15 Photos of WWE’s First Lady of Wrestling: Trish Stratus

Trish Stratus was born Patricia Anne Stratigeas on December 18, 1975, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. She began her career in professional wrestling in 1999 with the World Wrestling Federation (WWF), which later became World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). In this slideshow, we explore Stratus’ successful journey in the wrestling world and beyond.

Debut as a Heel: Trish Stratus made her debut as a heel (villain) on March 19, 2000, on Sunday Night Heat, where she scouted wrestlers Test and Prince Albert, leading to her role as their valet.

First Major Bump: During her time managing the tag team T & A, Stratus took her first major bump in the ring when she was driven through a table by the Dudley Boyz at Backlash.

In-Ring Debut: Stratus made her in-ring debut on June 22, 2000, on SmackDown!, where she won a tag team match alongside T & A against the Hardy Boyz and Lita.

Feud with Lita: A significant storyline feud developed between Stratus and Lita, culminating in an Indian Strap match on July 24, 2000, which Stratus won with assistance from Stephanie McMahon.

Relationship Angle with Vince McMahon: In early 2001, Stratus became involved in a controversial storyline with Vince McMahon, which included humiliating moments and ended with her turning face (hero) at WrestleMania X-Seven.

First Women’s Championship: Stratus won her first WWF Women’s Championship at Survivor Series in 2001 in a six-pack challenge, marking the beginning of her rise as a top female competitor.

End of Feud with Victoria: At WrestleMania XIX in 2003, Stratus ended her feud with Victoria by defeating both Victoria and Jazz to capture her fourth Women’s Championship, solidifying her status in the women’s division.

Record Championship Reign: She holds the record for the longest reign as WWE Women’s Champion in the 21st century, with a remarkable 448-day title reign.

WWE Hall of Fame: Stratus was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2013, solidifying her legacy as one of the greatest female wrestlers in history.

Transition from Medicine to Fitness: Initially, Stratus was studying at York University to become a doctor before transitioning to a career as a fitness model.

Diverse Storylines: Early in her wrestling career, she participated in sexually themed storylines, including managing the tag team T & A and a storyline affair with WWE owner Vince McMahon.

Multiple Championships: Throughout her career, Stratus won the WWE Women’s Championship seven times and was also a one-time WWE Hardcore Champion.

Post-Retirement Appearances: After retiring from full-time wrestling in 2006, she made several part-time appearances, including participating in the first Women’s Royal Rumble in 2018.

Acting Career: Stratus has ventured into acting, with her first film role as the main character in “Bail Enforcers” and has hosted various award and television shows.

Charity and Entrepreneurship: Beyond wrestling and acting, she has been involved in charity work and owned a yoga studio, showcasing her commitment to fitness and wellness. From 2022 to 2024, she served as a judge on “Canada’s Got Talent.”