The 2025 QWI Awards, an event celebrating the excellence and achievements in the queer professional wrestling community, unveiled its winners on Christmas Day. This year, the spotlight was on the former four-time All Elite Wrestling Women’s World Champion, Toni Storm, who emerged as a major winner.
For the second consecutive year, Toni Storm was ranked number two in the QWI 200 but this year she went on to collect four prestigious awards for her outstanding performances in 2025.
Toni Storm made history by becoming the first nominee from a major televised wrestling promotion to win the LGBTQ Wrestler of the Year award. Her exceptional in-ring talent and charisma were further acknowledged through awards for Match of the Year and Feud of the Year, both accolades highlighting her intense rivalry with Mariah May, who is now known as WWE NXT star Blake Monroe. Additionally, Storm's unique and captivating in-ring fashion earned her the Best Look award.
Celebrating Global Talent
The QWI Awards recognized not only Storm's achievements but celebrated the diversity and talent of queer pro wrestlers from around the world. The Midwest duo G.A.Y., consisting of Gwen Neodonna and The Luminary, were named Tag Team of the Year. Charli Evans, the PWA Heavyweight Champion, made history as the first Australian to win International LGBTQ Wrestler of the Year, while Amira from the Pacific Northwest was awarded the Breakout Star of the Year.
Oakland’s own Hoodslam/SlamTown was honored as Promotion of the Year for the second consecutive year, marking its third win in four years. Newcomer Eli Riley from Alabama was celebrated as Rookie of the Year, showcasing the fresh talent rising in the wrestling scene.
Impactful Moments and Personalities
Tommy Purr, a pioneering figure for LGBTQ pro wrestlers in Las Vegas, was honored with the Personality of the Year award. Purr's dedication to the LGBTQ-led promotion PrideStyle, even while undergoing cancer treatment, resonated deeply with voters. He managed to outshine fellow nominee and four-time winner, Pollo Del Mar.
Veda Scott, a broadcaster whose influence is well recognized, won the Voice of the Year award for the third time in four years, further solidifying their iconic status in the wrestling world.
Allie Katch moved hearts, winning Moment of the Year for her emotional return to wrestling after a severe leg injury kept her out for 10 months. Meanwhile, EFFY, who topped the QWI 200 list, was awarded the coveted Flowers Award, honoring his profound impact on the world of professional wrestling both inside and outside the ring.
Honoring Excellence in Wrestling
The QWI Awards featured a comprehensive list of categories, each celebrating different aspects of the wrestling world. Whether it was recognizing the creative prowess of writers, the influence of creators, or the excitement of live events, this year’s awards ceremony was a testament to the thriving and diverse community within professional wrestling.
With awards spanning across 16 categories, the QWI Awards continue to highlight and honor the contributions and achievements of LGBTQ individuals in wrestling, promoting inclusivity and diversity within the sport.
The 2025 QWI Awards celebrated the vibrancy and talent of the queer wrestling community, with Toni Storm leading the pack as a symbol of excellence and inspiration. Her achievements, alongside those of her peers, reflect the dynamic and ever-evolving landscape of professional wrestling.
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