Sol Ruca reached a major milestone in her WWE career after defeating Becky Lynch to win the WWE Women’s Intercontinental Championship at Clash in Italy on May 31.
The victory made Ruca the first Black woman to hold the Women’s Intercontinental Championship since the title was introduced. It was also one of the biggest moments of her young main roster career, as she ended Lynch’s reign and cemented her place among WWE’s rising stars.
Sol Ruca Wins WWE Women’s Intercontinental Championship at Clash in Italy
The championship match came just one day after a controversial encounter between the two stars at Saturday Night’s Main Event.
During that earlier match, Lynch pushed referee Jessica Carr in front of her as Ruca connected with a Sol Snatcher. The referee called for a disqualification, giving Ruca the victory but not the championship. The ending left unfinished business between the competitors and led to a rematch at Clash in Italy.
With the Women’s Intercontinental Championship on the line, both women entered the match determined to prove a point. However, it was Ruca who delivered when it mattered most.
Becky Lynch’s Title Reign Ends After 43 Days
Lynch used every tactic available to maintain her grip on the title. Throughout the match, she attempted to frustrate and distract Ruca.
The veteran star trash talked her opponent, manipulated situations involving referee Jessica Carr, and even tried to use Ruca’s own signature move against her. Despite those efforts, Ruca stayed focused and continued to fight back.
As the match reached its final moments, Ruca struck suddenly with a Sol Snatcher out of nowhere. The move stunned Lynch and secured the pinfall victory, ending Lynch’s 43-day reign as champion.
Sol Ruca Continues Rapid Rise on WWE Main Roster
The title win marked another major step in Ruca’s impressive rise through WWE.
Before joining the main roster, she was widely regarded as one of the brightest prospects in WWE NXT. Her athletic style and unique offense quickly made her a fan favorite.
Ruca had already gained attention with a notable victory over Bayley at Saturday Night’s Main Event in December. That appearance was especially significant because John Cena personally selected her for the card. Now, just months later, she has captured championship gold on one of WWE’s biggest international stages.
First Black Women’s Intercontinental Champion Adds Historic Achievement
Beyond winning the title, Ruca’s victory carries historic significance.
By capturing the Women’s Intercontinental Championship, she became the first Black woman to hold the belt. The achievement adds another important chapter to WWE’s growing history of diversity among its champions.
Her success also highlights the growing impact of younger talent on the main roster. WWE has increasingly invested in developing new stars, and Ruca’s championship victory shows that confidence is paying off.
What’s Next for Sol Ruca After Historic WWE Victory?
Winning the Women’s Intercontinental Championship instantly places a spotlight on Ruca as one of WWE’s emerging stars.
With Lynch now chasing the title she lost, fans could see the rivalry continue in the coming weeks. At the same time, other challengers may begin targeting the new champion as she starts her first reign.
For now, though, the focus remains on a career-defining night in Italy. Sol Ruca entered Clash in Italy looking to prove she belonged among WWE’s elite. She left with the championship around her waist and a place in the history books.
