Wrestling fans mark March 7, 2025, on your calendars, this is when Queen of the Ring, the inspiring story of wrestling legend Mildred Burke, makes its theatrical debut. Distributed by Sumerian Pictures, this powerful biopic is based on the acclaimed book of the same name and is written and directed by Ash Avildsen, whose work earned him the Best Director Award at the 2024 Portland Film Festival.
Queen of the Ring chronicles the extraordinary life of Mildred Burke, a trailblazing professional wrestler and cultural icon. In an era when women’s wrestling was banned across much of the U.S., Burke shattered barriers as the first million-dollar female athlete and the first woman to headline arenas over male competitors. Set against the backdrop of the 1930s to 1950s, this riveting film portrays her rise from a small-town single mother to a wrestling icon who redefined the sport and paved the way for future generations.
At the heart of this cinematic triumph is Emily Bett Rickards (Arrow), who delivers a career-defining performance as Mildred Burke, capturing the resilience and charisma of the groundbreaking wrestler.
The film boasts a dynamic ensemble cast, including:
- Josh Lucas (Ford v Ferrari, Sweet Home Alabama)
- Walton Goggins (The Hateful Eight, Righteous Gemstones)
- Gavin Casalegno (The Summer I Turned Pretty), portrays Burke’s teenage son
- Tyler Posey (Teen Wolf)
- Deborah Ann Woll (TrueBlood, Daredevil)
- Cara Buono (Stranger Things)
- Marie Avgeropoulos (The 100)
- Kelli Berglund (Heels)
Professional wrestling icons Kamille, Toni Storm, Trinity Fatu, and Jim Cornette also lend authenticity and connection to the wrestling community.
Praised for its authenticity and emotional depth, Queen of the Ring has already earned accolades at film festivals. Critics are lauding the film’s ability to blend gripping storytelling with dazzling spectacle:
- “Making all the right moves.” – The Hollywood Reporter
- “Bringing glitzy, gritty Americana to wrestling history.” – MovieJawn
Timed to release during Women’s History Month, with its premiere just a day before International Women’s Day (March 8), the film is a celebration of female empowerment and resilience. Burke’s story is a testament to overcoming societal and personal barriers to achieve greatness, inspiring viewers to break their limits.
Queen of the Ring is not just a film—it’s a tribute to a woman whose legacy continues to inspire. Will you step into the ring to witness her incredible journey?
