Former WWE writer Vince Russo is backing Chelsea Green to win the ongoing tournament to crown the first-ever WWE Women’s U.S. Champion.

Green won her first-round match on last week’s episode of WWE SmackDown, defeating Bianca Belair and Blair Davenport to advance to the next round.

On a recent edition of the “BroDown on Backstage Pass” podcast, Russo shared his support for the former Women’s Tag Team Champion. He said,

“I hope so [that she wins,] man. I really, really, really hope so.”

During the podcast, Russo also discussed this week’s first-round match that saw Michin defeat Piper Niven and NXT’s Lash Legend to advance. He said,

“Here’s my thoughts about this match. Who’s buying one ticket to see Michin? Who? Mac, isn’t it more interesting if Piper Niven goes over because Chelsea is already in. Why would Michin go over? Nobody cares about this woman.

“And then, all you had to do was have Piper screw Chelsea Green, and now you’ve got a babyface in Chelsea Green. It’s that simple, but they’re going with Michin that not one person watching this show cares about.”

Green will face Bayley in the semifinals of the tournament, while Michin will face either Elektra Lopez, Tiffany Stratton, or Naomi.

The winner of the tournament will be crowned at Saturday Night’s Main Event. A Women’s Intercontinental title has also been announced.