Professional wrestling fans and history buffs alike have something special to look forward to this year. Queen of the Ring, a new biopic about the legendary Mildred Burke, is set to hit theaters in the U.S. on March 7, 2025. The film tells the inspiring true story of Burke, a trailblazing wrestler who overcame countless obstacles to become the first million-dollar female athlete and one of the most dominant champions in wrestling history.
A Look at the Story
Based on Jeff Leen’s book The Queen of the Ring, the film follows Burke’s rise in the wrestling world during a time when women’s wrestling was banned in many parts of the U.S. A single mother, she not only fought opponents in the ring but also battled a male-dominated industry that tried to hold her back at every turn. Her tumultuous relationship with promoter Billy Wolfe, who both helped and hindered her career, is expected to play a significant role in the film’s narrative.
A Star-Studded Cast
Queen of the Ring boasts an impressive cast, blending Hollywood actors with real-life wrestling stars:
- Emily Bett Rickards as Mildred Burke
- Josh Lucas as Billy Wolfe
- Tyler Posey as George William “G. Bill” Wolfe
- Walton Goggins as Jack Pfefer
- Francesca Eastwood as Mae Young
- Kamille as June Byers
- Toni Storm as Clara Mortensen
- Trinity Fatu (Naomi) as Ethel Johnson
- Britt Baker as Debbie Nichols
- Jim Cornette as Sam Muchnick
With real wrestlers like Kamille, Toni Storm, Trinity Fatu, and Britt Baker involved, the film is sure to bring an authentic feel to the in-ring action.
Behind the Scenes
The film is directed by Ash Avildsen, who also co-wrote the script with Alston Ramsay. Given Avildsen’s background in both film and music, the movie is expected to blend strong storytelling with a high-energy presentation fitting for a wrestling legend like Burke.
Premiere and Release
Queen of the Ring made its debut at the Buffalo International Film Festival on October 15, 2024, where it garnered early attention. Now, fans across the country will get to experience Burke’s incredible journey when the movie hits theaters on March 7, 2025, courtesy of Sumerian Pictures.
Why This Movie Matters
Mildred Burke’s story is one that wrestling fans and athletes of all kinds should know. She paved the way for generations of women in wrestling, long before names like Trish Stratus, Charlotte Flair, or Becky Lynch became household names. With Queen of the Ring, her legacy will finally get the spotlight it deserves.
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