In one of the high-profile matches of IMPACT Wrestling Slammiversary 2021, Deonna Purrazzo defended the IMPACT Knockouts Championship against a mystery opponent. Leading up to the show in question, fans speculated as to who would answer the challenge of “The Virtuosa.” Would it be a recently released WWE Superstar? Would it instead be an independent wrestler on the rise? The challenge in question would soon be answered by former NWA World Women’s Champion Thunder Rosa, much to the approval of the fans in attendance and those watching from home. Indeed, in her IMPACT debut, “La Mera Mera” challenged for the Knockouts Championship.
.@thunderrosa22 is @DeonnaPurrazzo's OPPONENT in a DREAM MATCH! #Slammiversary
Order HERE: https://t.co/B4rKbNpqAD pic.twitter.com/F8PFWHvLrn
— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) July 18, 2021
As has become the standard for her wrestling style, Deonna Purrazzo relied on holds and submission maneuvers, attempting to wear down the challenger in Thunder Rosa. However, Rosa responded with strikes and high-flying maneuvers, including a missile dropkick with authority. Rosa’s gutsy demeanor shined through in this match, not only escaping a Fujiwara armbar attempt but applying a sleeper hold of her own. Clearly, Rosa wasn’t shy about matching Purrazzo one submission or stiff strike for another. Purrazzo would soon end the match, retaining her title, following a Queen’s Gambit for the pinfall victory.
Not long after her victory, Purrazzo’s celebration would be quickly interrupted by the returning Mickie James. Between her title defense earlier tonight and the homecoming of the former multi-time Knockouts Champion, it’s clear that “The Virtuosa” has her work cut out for her moving forward.
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