“No wonder she was replaced”- Wrestling fans in shock after WWE legend chastises female star over ‘jazzed-up lingerie’ gear
Former Women's Champion calls out a young talent for wearing revealing ring gear during her performance on WWE LFG.

WWE Legends (via the scrap)
WWE’s latest A&E show, LFG: Legends & Future Greats, has been making waves with its star-studded lineup. Featuring icons like The Undertaker, Booker T, and Bully Ray mentoring the next generation, the show aims to shape young talents into future greats. However, the latest episode has stirred controversy among the WWE Universe, sparking heated debates across the fanbase.
Former Women’s Champion Mickie James served as a judge for a match between Zena Sterling and Tamara Mae Steele on the latest edition of LFG: Legends & Future Greats. After the match, James confronted Sterling over her ring attire, criticizing it as overly revealing. She expressed that such attire made the match uncomfortable to watch, making it look like an awkward presentation.
Furthermore, the 45-year-old veteran stressed that past generations of female wrestlers worked hard to break free from the era of lingerie-based performances. James advised Sterling that if she wants to be seen as a serious wrestler, she should present herself accordingly rather than relying on flashy attire. The former Women’s Champion made it clear that, in her opinion, such gear wouldn’t take Sterling far.
"Its very frustrating when women go out there and all I see is their @$$" – Mickie James | #WWE #WWELFG What do we think guys? pic.twitter.com/AlM4A3Jt6M
— Ringside News: WWE & AEW Wrestling News (@ringsidenews_) March 31, 2025
Additionally, having witnessed nearly every era of women’s wrestling in sports entertainment, James brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. As a WWE legend, she is in a position to evaluate talent with authority. It will be interesting to see how Sterling responds to these controversial remarks from the former Women’s Champion.
WWE Universe reacts to Mickie James’ comment on Zena Sterling at WWE LFG
The WWE Universe appears to strongly disagree with Mickie James‘ remarks. Fans criticized the former Women’s Champion for her “mean-spirited” comments, accusing her of unfairly targeting the young talent. Some even suggested that James’ critique stemmed from personal bias, arguing that Zena Sterling’s attire was simply stylish and that the veteran was making an issue out of nothing.

Additionally, fans were quick to call out James for her own provocative gestures and moves during her time in WWE, questioning the hypocrisy of her criticism. With opinions divided, here are some of the top fan reactions on X:
No wonder she was replaced
— Phillip (@StrandedGrey) March 31, 2025
But you tongued a woman on television for papa vince ha the hypocrisy of it all
— ᵗᵒᵒ ᶜrueˡ ¿ (@feelingcruel) March 31, 2025
This why Mickie got replaced
— Society Reviews (@SocietyMovies) March 31, 2025
That's hate coming out of her mouth.
— Goldenforce772, Solo Warrior (@Goldenforce772) March 31, 2025
Well, if you would’ve focused on their wrestling and not their ass maybe you would’ve seen that these ladies can actually wrestle.
— aaronloveswrestling (@A_L_W_podcast) March 31, 2025
I’m sorry but Mickie James made an ass out of herself for saying this
I disagree, I think the women look stylish
— joseph villarroel (@friezsnake) March 31, 2025
I disagree, I think the women look stylish
— Sophia (@vocalmindsophia) March 31, 2025
Fans took their criticism even further, speculating that James’ comments may have contributed to her rumored replacement on the show by Michelle McCool. Many labeled the former TNA star as “whiny” for her remarks, flooding social media with backlash. While a handful of fans supported the WWE legend, the overwhelming majority were vocal in their disapproval of the 45-year-old’s stance.
Michelle McCool to replace Mickie James from WWE LFG
Mickie James was initially heavily promoted as WWE LFG’s featured female legend. However, over time, her presence on the show has seemingly lost momentum. Amid the controversy, reports have surfaced suggesting that The Undertaker’s wife, Michelle McCool, is set to replace the former Women’s Champion on the show.

According to Fightful Select, A&E is bringing in McCool to replace James in Season 2 of WWE LFG. The report further states that The Undertaker personally pushed for McCool to join as one of the coaches, prompting A&E to replace James with his wife.
This controversial decision has sparked backlash, with many criticizing The Deadman for allegedly influencing the casting change. However, some reports suggest that The Phenom simply wanted his wife involved, and A&E’s inability to accommodate multiple female coaches ultimately led to James’ departure.