A Woman Who Commanded Respect
Let me tell you something about Sherri Martel—she wasn’t just any performer. She was a trailblazer, a force of nature, and someone who could command a room without even saying a word. Growing up, I was always a little intimidated by her. Sure, she was beautiful, but there was something about her makeup and those bold costume choices that made her seem larger than life. To be honest, as a kid, it kind of scared me. But as I grew older, I realized just how much she shaped the wrestling world we know today.
That Voice You Can't Forget
Even if you don’t know much about wrestling, chances are you’ve heard Sherri’s voice at least once. Her rendition of Shawn Michaels’ entrance theme, "Sexy Boy," is iconic. It wasn’t just music—it was a declaration. When Sherri walked into the ring, everyone paid attention. That voice was unmistakable, and it set the tone for so many unforgettable moments in wrestling history. She didn’t just sing; she owned it.
A Life in Wrestling
Sherri Martel was born on February 8, 1958, in Birmingham, Alabama. Her journey into wrestling wasn’t easy. She trained hard in Columbia, South Carolina, before making her way into the industry. Over the years, she became known for her appearances on WCW Monday Nitro (1995), WWE SmackDown! (1999), and WWE Raw (1993). But it wasn’t just about being a face in the crowd—Sherri carved out her own path. She was married twice, first to Robert Schrull and later to Leroy Gonzales, but her real passion was always wrestling.
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Breaking Barriers in the Ring
Sherri Martel wasn’t just another wrestler; she was a pioneer. In an era where women weren’t always given the credit they deserved, Sherri proved that women could hold their own in main event storylines. She didn’t shy away from getting involved in male feuds, and she did it with such confidence that it became hard to ignore her presence. Her victories were legendary—defeating Candi Devine three times for the AWA Women’s Title, vacating it to join the World Wrestling Federation, and even taking down the Fabulous Moolah to win the WWF Women’s Title. She wasn’t just a wrestler; she was a superstar.
A Legacy That Still Inspires
Sherri’s legacy isn’t just about her wins in the ring—it’s about everything she brought to the table. As a wrestler, manager, and personality, she set the standard for what women could achieve in the wrestling world. She showed that women could be powerful, influential, and unforgettable. Her impact wasn’t limited to the ring; it extended to the hearts of fans who admired her courage and determination.
A Tragic End
On June 15, 2007, the wrestling world lost one of its brightest stars. Sherri Martel passed away at the age of 49 in McCalla, Alabama. Her death came at a particularly dark time for the wrestling community, just days before the tragic events involving Chris Benoit. People were naturally suspicious, but what mattered most was honoring her memory. Her son, Jared Gonzales, spoke about how much his mother cared for him, even if he didn’t get to see her as often as he would have liked. She made sure he was taken care of, and that says a lot about the kind of person she was.
Remembering Sensational Sherri
Sherri Martel, also known as Sensational Sherri, left an indelible mark on the wrestling industry. Her career spanned decades, and her influence is still felt today. She wasn’t just a wrestler; she was a trailblazer who paved the way for future generations. Her legacy lives on in the memories of fans and the impact she had on the sport. In April 2006, WWE honored her by inducting her into their Hall of Fame, a fitting tribute to a woman who gave so much to the world of wrestling.
Family and Legacy
Sherri wanted a family, and she got one. She had a son, Jared, in July 1978. While her career kept her busy, she always made sure Jared was taken care of. Jared has spoken openly about his mother, sharing stories of her strength and resilience. He’s also been vocal about his own struggles, including his battle with cancer. Despite everything, Jared carries on his mother’s legacy with pride, honoring her memory while forging his own path.
Her Final Days
Sherri’s passing was sudden, and it left a void in the wrestling community. But her story didn’t end there. Her son, Jared Gonzales, continues to search for ways to honor her memory. He’s even looking for the artist who created a special piece of artwork for her. If you know anything, please reach out to him—he’s eager to learn more about this piece of his mother’s life.
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A Name That Resonates
When you think of Sensational Sherri Martel, you think of strength, determination, and a woman who refused to be overlooked. Her titular ring name was even used as the title for an episode of Viceland’s "Dark Side of the Ring," airing on April 23, 2024. It’s a testament to her lasting impact on the wrestling world. As we remember her, let’s also celebrate the legacy she left behind—one that continues to inspire fans and wrestlers alike.
