The role of women in the wrestling industry has indeed evolved over the past decade, from managers/valets to Divas (WWE) & Knockouts (TNA). Debra said that during her run in the WWE, there was more of an "individual type of Diva," feel to the earlier crop of Divas (like herself & Joanie "Chyna" Laurer), where as now all of the women are the same type & grouped into the collective term of "Divas" as an entity. Debra honestly believes though, that the hard work & determination of such women as Sunny & Trish Stratus will pay off, and that she very well could see the both of them (and potentially several others) join The Fabulous Moolah, Mae Young, & "Sensational" Sherri Martel in the WWE Hall Of Fame...sooner vs. later -- and even within the next few years.
Debra's ex-husband & former WWE Champion, "Stone Cold" Steve Austin is going to be headlining next weekend's WWE Hall Of Fame Ceremonies (Class of 2009), and Debra has been in the spotlight of the media over the past several years after her divorce from Steve. Mosh & Blade asked Debra for her thoughts on his induction, whether or not he deserves this accolade, & if she has been in contact with him since his HOF announcement was made: "It's been a while since I've spoken with Steve, but one thing I know is that he is a very talented entertainer." She went on to say that they mixed their personal & business paths together, and that made it hard on the both of them. Debra did wish to add that Steve is an amazing/talented wrestler, and that she "is happy for him, because he worked for everything he achieved."
The internet/world-wide-web has truly changed the landscape of the world over the past ten years, including the world of professional wrestling. Blade mentioned that with how prevalent the internet is today in the business, you can virtually get anything online. Debra agreed with Blade, saying that the "surprise factor" in wrestling is not there anymore & has changed from her start in WWE to today's scene in 2009. "I think maybe that is what they are missing total surprise, because that is what fans love...It's so addictive...You wonder what's gonna' happen, and then something else happens."
Hard to believe, but we are approaching the The ten-year anniversary of the shocking & unfortunate passing of former WWE superstar, Owen Hart. As many fans know, Debra had the chance to manage both Jeff Jarrett & Owen Hart together during the WWE World Tag Team Title run. Mosh asked Debra if Owen were alive today, if she would have seen him still involved in the business. Debra said that she remembers Owen very fondly, and spent a lot of time with him -- especially during the weekend of the "Over The Edge" PPV & leading into the night of his tragic death. She remembers how much fun she had with him, and his memory is not far from her thoughts. Debra went on-record saying that she would not have known if Owen would have played a part in today's business, as he was very close with his family & would have wanted to spend more time with them in the process.