Scarlett Bordeaux: The Smoke Show’s Rise in Professional Wrestling
Scarlett Bordeaux, born Elizabeth Chihaia, has become a standout name in the professional wrestling industry. Known for her dynamic persona, striking beauty, and a unique mix of in-ring talent and charisma, she has worked in various major wrestling promotions, including WWE, Impact Wrestling, and Ring of Honor (ROH). Her seductive “Smoke Show” character and her ability to captivate audiences with her confident, bold presence have helped her carve a unique space in a male-dominated industry.
This article will delve into Scarlett Bordeaux’s wrestling career, analyzing her in-ring skills, her character development, and her impact on women’s wrestling.
Early Life and Wrestling Beginnings
Born on May 13, 1991, in Edgewater, Chicago, Illinois, Elizabeth Chihaia grew up with a passion for performing. With Romanian heritage, she developed a love for the arts early in life, taking on ballet, theater, and modeling. These early ventures helped her build a solid foundation for her future career in professional wrestling, as they honed her stage presence and ability to command attention in front of an audience.
Bordeaux entered the wrestling world in 2012 after training at the Chicago-based wrestling school operated by Jimmy Jacobs and Truth Martini. Her blend of beauty, performance skills, and athleticism made her an instant attraction, and it wasn’t long before she was signed to various independent promotions where she would showcase her talent.
Early Career in Ring of Honor and Independent Promotions
Scarlett Bordeaux made her debut for Ring of Honor (ROH) in 2012, where she initially appeared as a “Hoopla Hottie” alongside Truth Martini in the House of Truth stable. Her early roles in ROH were less focused on in-ring action and more centered around her character work. As part of the Hoopla Hotties, Bordeaux would accompany Truth Martini to the ring, adding an element of glamour and sex appeal to his performances. Her on-screen persona was a mixture of playful seduction and intrigue, which quickly made her a fan favorite.
While her role in ROH was initially more about her character than her wrestling ability, Scarlett Bordeaux began training rigorously to improve her in-ring skills. During her time on the independent circuit, she wrestled for various promotions, including Ohio Valley Wrestling (OVW) and Chikara, refining her wrestling technique and developing a reputation as a versatile performer.
Impact Wrestling and the Birth of “The Smoke Show”
Bordeaux’s career took a significant turn when she signed with Impact Wrestling in 2018. This move marked a pivotal moment in her wrestling career, as it allowed her to fully develop and showcase her “Smoke Show” persona—a character that embodied confidence, seduction, and power.
In Impact Wrestling, Scarlett Bordeaux took on a more prominent role, not only as a manager and valet but also as an in-ring competitor. Her “Smoke Show” gimmick was a unique blend of glamor and arrogance, as she positioned herself as a seductive yet manipulative figure. She often referred to herself as a “10” and believed that everyone should be grateful for her presence in Impact Wrestling. This character work made her one of the most talked-about performers in the company at the time.
1. Managing and Wrestling in Impact
Scarlett Bordeaux’s initial Impact appearances involved managing and influencing other male wrestlers. Her character played off her looks and confidence, using her charm to manipulate situations and get what she wanted. Bordeaux was positioned as a femme fatale, someone who could control the narrative by distracting referees, interfering in matches, and aligning herself with other top wrestlers in the company.
However, it wasn’t long before Bordeaux began competing more frequently in the ring. Despite her character’s emphasis on glamor, Bordeaux showed that she was more than just a manager. She quickly proved her in-ring abilities, combining technical skills with a style that was uniquely hers—part wrestler, part performer. Her matches, though often interspersed with moments of character work, demonstrated her athletic prowess and wrestling knowledge.
2. Feud with Glenn Gilbertti
One of Scarlett Bordeaux’s most memorable storylines in Impact Wrestling was her feud with Glenn Gilbertti, also known as Disco Inferno. Gilbertti, portraying a misogynistic character, frequently belittled women’s wrestling, claiming that women should not compete against men. This storyline led to a climactic match between Bordeaux and Gilbertti at Impact Wrestling’s Rebellion event in 2019, where Bordeaux scored a decisive victory over Gilbertti.
The feud with Gilbertti was important for Bordeaux’s career, as it allowed her to stand up for the women’s division in Impact Wrestling while further solidifying her wrestling skills. The storyline positioned her as a strong competitor who could face and defeat male wrestlers, adding another layer to her character.
3. Departure from Impact Wrestling
In 2019, Scarlett Bordeaux requested her release from Impact Wrestling, which was granted. Her departure from the company marked the end of an important chapter in her career, but it also opened the door for new opportunities in other wrestling promotions.
During her time in Impact Wrestling, Scarlett Bordeaux had left a lasting impact. Her ability to balance character work with in-ring performances made her a versatile performer who could draw attention both in and out of the ring.
WWE NXT and Main Roster Journey
In November 2019, Scarlett Bordeaux signed with WWE, where she was assigned to the NXT brand. This signing was highly anticipated, as Bordeaux had developed a significant fan following due to her time in Impact Wrestling. In WWE, she began competing under her real name, Scarlett, and was paired with her real-life partner, Karrion Kross.
Scarlett’s role in NXT was unique. She was primarily positioned as Karrion Kross’s valet and manager, but her presence was more than just a supporting role. Scarlett brought a dark, gothic aesthetic to her character, complementing Kross’s destructive persona. She often appeared in elaborate, theatrical entrances, which captivated the NXT audience and established her as a central figure in Kross’s matches.
1. The Kross-Scarlett Dynamic
As Karrion Kross’s manager, Scarlett played a key role in his rise to the top of NXT. Their dynamic was a crucial part of Kross’s character development, as Scarlett’s presence added an aura of mystique and danger to his persona. Together, they created a visually stunning and intimidating package, with Scarlett often providing distractions or moral support during Kross’s matches.
While Scarlett was not involved in in-ring action during her initial run in NXT, her influence on Kross’s matches was undeniable. She frequently used psychological tactics to get inside the heads of Kross’s opponents, helping him secure victories and dominate the NXT roster.
2. Transition to WWE’s Main Roster
In 2021, Karrion Kross and Scarlett were called up to WWE’s main roster. However, Scarlett did not immediately accompany Kross during his main roster run. This decision puzzled many fans, as their dynamic had been a major part of Kross’s success in NXT. Scarlett’s absence from Kross’s main roster debut raised questions about her role in WWE moving forward.
Although she did not compete in matches during this time, Scarlett remained a significant figure in the wrestling world due to her past performances and potential for future involvement in WWE.
3. Departure from WWE and Future Prospects
In November 2021, Scarlett Bordeaux was released from WWE, along with Karrion Kross and other talents, as part of a series of budget cuts. Her departure from WWE was met with disappointment from fans who had hoped to see her compete more actively in the ring.
Despite her release, Scarlett Bordeaux’s future in wrestling remains bright. She has proven herself as a versatile performer with a blend of in-ring skill, character work, and presence. Whether she returns to WWE, competes in other major promotions, or continues to dominate the independent circuit, Scarlett Bordeaux has already cemented her legacy as a unique and impactful figure in professional wrestling.
In-Ring Skills: A Blend of Power, Seduction, and Technique
While Scarlett Bordeaux is best known for her character work, she has also demonstrated impressive in-ring skills throughout her career. Below is an analysis of some of her key in-ring techniques:
1. Striking and Technical Wrestling
Scarlett Bordeaux incorporates a blend of striking and technical wrestling into her matches. Her background in dance and physical fitness gives her agility and flexibility, allowing her to execute moves with precision and grace.
- Striking Techniques: Scarlett’s strikes are often quick and effective, utilizing forearms, kicks, and chops to wear down her opponents. Her agility allows her to move fluidly around the ring, giving her the ability to land precise strikes from various positions.
- Submission Moves: Scarlett has also incorporated submission techniques into her repertoire. She often uses the Sleeper Hold or the Crossface to wear down her opponents, targeting their neck and shoulders to force a submission. These moves showcase her technical wrestling ability and add a strategic element to her matches.
2. Power Moves and High Impact Offense
While Scarlett is not known as a powerhouse wrestler, she has demonstrated the ability to execute high-impact moves that showcase her strength.
- DDT: One of her most effective moves is the DDT, a maneuver where she plants her opponent’s head into the mat with force. The DDT is a classic move in wrestling, and Scarlett’s execution of it adds a layer of intensity to her matches.
- Suplex Variations: Scarlett has also incorporated various suplexes into her matches, such as the Snap Suplex and the German Suplex. These moves are designed to take control of her opponents and shift the momentum in her favor.
3. Character-Driven Wrestling Style
Scarlett Bordeaux’s wrestling style is deeply intertwined with her character work, which has always been one of her greatest assets in the ring. Whether portraying the seductive “Smoke Show” in Impact Wrestling or the dark and mysterious valet for Karrion Kross in WWE NXT, Scarlett masterfully blends her persona into her in-ring performances. Her matches often involve psychological tactics, using her allure and mind games to throw opponents off balance, making her a unique and unpredictable competitor.
- Psychological Manipulation: Scarlett’s ability to manipulate her opponents emotionally and mentally is a key part of her matches. From distraction tactics to playing into her seductive persona, she understands how to use her presence to control the flow of the match. This character-driven approach allows her to slow down fast-paced bouts and create drama, drawing in the audience and making every move feel impactful.
- Theatrics and Presentation: One of Scarlett’s defining traits is her theatricality. From her entrances to her mannerisms in the ring, she adds an air of mystique and drama to her matches. Whether it’s the way she taunts her opponent or how she sets up for a finishing move, Scarlett’s performances are designed to captivate the audience, adding layers to the story unfolding in the ring.
Signature Moves and Finishing Techniques
Scarlett Bordeaux, though known more for her character work, has developed a repertoire of signature moves that reflect both her in-ring ability and her persona.
- Scarlett’s DDT: One of her go-to finishing moves is a well-executed DDT, where she plants her opponent’s head into the mat with precision and impact. The move showcases her ability to transition from psychological warfare to high-impact offense.
- Sleeper Hold: Scarlett often uses a sleeper hold or rear-naked choke, drawing from her technical wrestling ability. This submission maneuver plays into her strategic style, allowing her to wear down her opponents and take control of the match, especially against faster or stronger competitors.
- Superkick: Scarlett has also been known to utilize a superkick in her matches, especially during dramatic moments. The move, known for its quick execution and ability to turn the tide, fits well with her character-driven style, often catching opponents by surprise.
Impact on Women’s Wrestling
Scarlett Bordeaux’s contributions to women’s wrestling go beyond her in-ring work. She has been a pivotal figure in reshaping how female performers can blend character work with athleticism. Her “Smoke Show” persona, while controversial to some, pushed boundaries and expanded the role of women in wrestling, showing that female wrestlers can embrace both their strength and femininity without sacrificing one for the other.
1. Redefining Roles for Women in Wrestling
Scarlett has challenged the traditional roles of women in wrestling by creating a persona that is bold, confident, and unapologetically sexual, yet powerful in its own right. While some critics initially viewed her “Smoke Show” gimmick as a return to the “diva” era, Scarlett used it as a platform to empower herself and redefine how a woman in wrestling can operate. Her ability to mix seduction with aggression and confidence has inspired other women to embrace their multifaceted identities.
2. Women as Valets and Managers
Scarlett’s time as Karrion Kross’s valet in WWE was a clear example of how women can still play a pivotal role in a managerial position. In an era where most women in wrestling are either wrestlers or personalities in their own right, Scarlett brought back the importance of the valet/manager dynamic. Her presence elevated Kross’s persona, and she reminded fans of the unique power that a manager can hold—whether through psychological support, distraction, or simply being a dominating presence.
3. Breaking into Intergender Wrestling
Scarlett Bordeaux has also been part of the movement that embraces intergender wrestling, where women face male opponents in the ring. Her feud with Glenn Gilbertti in Impact Wrestling was a clear example of this, as she stood toe-to-toe with male competitors and proved she could compete just as fiercely. This has helped dismantle some of the outdated notions that women must only face women and has opened the door for more diverse matchups in wrestling.
Challenges and Criticism
Scarlett Bordeaux’s career has not been without its challenges. While her “Smoke Show” persona garnered attention and popularity, it also sparked controversy among some wrestling fans and critics. Some felt that her character was a throwback to the objectification of women during the “diva” era of wrestling, while others praised her for owning her sexuality and using it as a form of empowerment.
Scarlett has been vocal about defending her character, emphasizing that she created the persona herself and that it was an authentic expression of her personality and performance style. She has noted in interviews that her goal was to challenge norms in the wrestling industry and show that women can be both powerful and feminine at the same time.
Future Prospects and Legacy
Although Scarlett Bordeaux was released from WWE in 2021, her career is far from over. With her unique combination of character work, in-ring skills, and undeniable charisma, Scarlett has a wealth of opportunities ahead of her. Whether she returns to WWE, joins another major wrestling promotion like AEW, or continues to build her brand on the independent circuit, Scarlett Bordeaux is poised to leave a lasting mark on the wrestling industry.
1. Potential for a Return to Major Promotions
Given Scarlett’s popularity and the continued demand from her fanbase, it’s highly likely that she will be courted by major wrestling promotions once again. Her time in WWE was cut short, but there’s a strong possibility that she could return, perhaps in a more prominent in-ring role alongside or independent of Karrion Kross. Additionally, promotions like AEW, which value character-driven wrestling, would be an ideal platform for Scarlett to showcase her talents.
2. Expanding Her Influence Beyond Wrestling
Scarlett Bordeaux has already proven that she is more than just a wrestler. With her background in acting, modeling, and entertainment, Scarlett has the potential to expand her brand beyond the world of professional wrestling. Whether it’s through acting roles, reality television, or other entertainment ventures, Scarlett’s charisma and presence could make her a crossover star in various forms of media.
3. Lasting Influence on Women’s Wrestling
Scarlett Bordeaux’s legacy will likely be one of innovation and boundary-pushing. She has demonstrated that women in wrestling can break traditional molds and embrace complex personas that blend strength, beauty, and intelligence. Her work as a manager, wrestler, and performer has helped elevate the role of women in the wrestling industry, and she has opened doors for future generations of female wrestlers who want to experiment with their characters and in-ring styles.
Conclusion
Scarlett Bordeaux’s wrestling career has been defined by her ability to captivate audiences with her charisma, character work, and in-ring ability. From her early days in Ring of Honor to her breakout performances in Impact Wrestling and WWE NXT, Scarlett has consistently pushed boundaries and redefined the role of women in professional wrestling.
As both an in-ring competitor and a manager, Scarlett has demonstrated versatility and a deep understanding of the wrestling business. Her “Smoke Show” persona, though controversial at times, became a symbol of empowerment for many fans, showing that women in wrestling can embrace their femininity while remaining powerful and competitive.
Scarlett Bordeaux’s future in wrestling and entertainment is filled with potential. Whether she returns to the ring or continues to expand her brand in other industries, her legacy as a trailblazer in women’s wrestling is secure.
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