Editors. David L. Chapman, Conor Heffernan, and Rachel Ozerkevich
We invite chapter proposals for a new edited collection examining the global history of women’s professional wrestling. This volume aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of women’s wrestling from its ancient origins to the contemporary era, exploring its impact on sport, gender, sociology, and popular culture. While recent media productions like Netflix’s GLOW (2017) and Queen of the Ring (2024) have brought renewed attention to women’s wrestling, scholarly examination of this field remains limited, particularly regarding its early history. This collection seeks to fill this gap by bringing together diverse perspectives on the historical development and cultural significance of women’s wrestling.
Possible Topics
We welcome proposals addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
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- Origins and development of women’s wrestling from antiquity to modernity
- Key figures and their influence on the sport’s evolution
- Gender and sexuality representations in women’s wrestling
- Audience analysis and demographic studies
- International perspectives and cross-cultural examination
- Performance aspects: theatricality, kayfabe, and authenticity
- Class dynamics in women’s wrestling
- Visual culture and promotional imagery
- Cinematic and media representations
- Cultural impact through fine arts, literature, and print media
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Submission Guidelines
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- Abstract length: 300-500 words
- Chapter length: 8,000-10,000 words (including endnotes)
- Citation style: Chicago Manual of Style
- Language: English
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Important Dates
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- Abstract submission deadline: February 28, 2025
- Notification of acceptance: March 15, 2025
- Full chapter submission: September 30, 2025
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Submission Process
Please submit your abstract (300-500 words) and a brief biographical note (150 words) in a single document to c.heffernan@ulster.ac.uk by February 28, 2025 5pm. Include your name, institutional affiliation, and contact information.
