Charlotte Flair is set to return at the WWE Royal Rumble, and all eyes are on her comeback. But while WWE builds around one of its biggest stars, a Hall of Fame legend believes another woman deserves the same chance. That legend is Rikishi. He feels WWE is missing a big opportunity by not fully backing Chelsea Green, a wrestler who has already proven she can deliver when given the spotlight.
Flair’s comeback comes after a long injury break and heavy promotion from WWE. At the same time, Green has quietly done everything asked of her, winning titles and standing out on screen. Rikishi believes this contrast shows a bigger problem in WWE’s women’s division. In his view, talent alone is not enough. What truly matters is how WWE writes and supports its performers. His comments have added fresh pressure on WWE’s booking choices.
Rikishi says Chelsea Green needs the same push WWE gave Charlotte Flair
Speaking on his podcast Rikishi Fatu Off The Top, Rikishi made it clear that Chelsea Green has what it takes to be a main event star. Last year, Green made history by becoming a double champion across WWE brands. Despite that success, she has not been placed at the top of the card.
Rikishi said the problem is not Green’s ability, but how WWE uses her.
“I feel 100% that Chelsea Green is a main eventer. It’s not that Chelsea can’t do the work; it’s not that Chelsea is not a prime talent, but the thing is, it’s how you’re writing stuff for this girl,” Rikishi said.
He directly compared her situation to Charlotte Flair’s rise in WWE.
“Give her, Chelsea Green, a fair opportunity. Build Chelsea up as much as you would give Charlotte Flair an opportunity,” he added.
Rikishi also warned WWE about damaging her momentum when creative plans are unclear.
“She can’t get over by herself if she’s having great, great matches and continues to do jobs for whoever,” he said.
Flair’s own journey shows how important strong booking can be. After missing more than a year due to a knee injury, Flair admitted the pressure nearly overwhelmed her. Speaking to Uncrowned, she shared her fears ahead of her return.
“I wondered if I was going to be ‘The Queen’ that everyone remembered,” Flair said.
WWE promoted her comeback with high-end video packages ahead of the Royal Rumble. Rikishi believes that same care and long-term planning could turn Chelsea Green into a top star if WWE commits fully.