Adriana Rizzo, a recognized talent on WWE’s developmental NXT brand, recently discussed the often complicated backstage dating scene involving WWE performers. Speaking candidly about her own relationship with fellow wrestler Cutler James, Rizzo offered insight into how romance develops behind the scenes and the challenges it can bring within the NXT environment.
Rizzo, who rose to prominence as part of The D’Angelo Family stable on NXT’s white and gold brand, played an active role in the faction’s storylines before it disbanded. Known for competing regularly on weekly NXT shows and premium live events, the 26-year-old wrestler revealed a recent injury setback – an ACL tear that may delay her return to in-ring action. Her openness about both her personal life and professional hurdles came during an appearance on Justin Stuckey’s podcast, Stuck In My Thoughts, where she discussed the complex dating culture among WWE athletes backstage.
Insight Into Adriana Rizzo’s Approach to Dating Within WWE
Rizzo explained that she deliberately avoided romantic relationships at WWE for nearly two years before starting to date Cutler James, a member of the DarkState faction. She noted that many wrestlers quickly form new relationships, which can attract significant negativity and drama within the company’s environment. Her decision to remain single for a lengthy period was unusual compared to many of her peers.
“So, I went about two years [without dating]. I didn’t talk to anyone. I didn’t date anyone. So, that was pretty cool of me because everyone else is dating immediately. No shade to any of you, but you did. You all did that… So, Cutler James is his name. He’s a member of DarkState, and he makes a lot of questionable comments; that’s kind of his thing. So, it was great. I’m glad I did it, and not everyone should because there’s a lot of negativity that comes with dating on the job,” Rizzo said.
— Adriana Rizzo, WWE NXT Superstar
This reflection shows Rizzo’s awareness of the scrutiny that romantic relationships often bring in the wrestling industry, particularly within NXT. She recognized that balancing personal and professional dynamics backstage is a delicate matter, one that not all wrestlers navigate in the same way or with the same caution.
Admiration for WWE’s Successful On-Screen and Off-Screen Couples
Rizzo also expressed admiration for established and emerging WWE power couples, mentioning names that have become synonymous with long-lasting partnerships in the wrestling world. She highlighted both main roster duos like Becky Lynch and Seth Rollins or AJ Lee and CM Punk, as well as developmental stars Bianca Belair and Montez Ford, whose relationship began in NXT and continues to thrive.
During the podcast, Rizzo shared her hope to emulate the strong, positive examples set by couples like Belair and Ford, who manage to maintain personal relationships despite the intense WWE schedule and pressures.
“Sometimes it works out. Some people get married. There’s a lot of Bianca Montez. There are a lot of success stories. So, hopefully that’s where I’m headed,” Rizzo said.
— Adriana Rizzo, WWE NXT Superstar
This admiration reflects Rizzo’s desire for stability and success in her own relationship, underscoring how romantic partnerships in WWE can sometimes be a source of support amid the sport’s physical and emotional demands. Currently, while Rizzo is sidelined by injury, Montez Ford is active in NXT storylines, engaging in a feud alongside Angelo Dawkins against The Wyatt Sicks faction.
The Impact of Dating Culture on WWE’s Developmental Brand and Future Outlook
Adriana Rizzo’s remarks shed light on the broader backstage culture of WWE’s developmental system, illustrating both the allure and the complications of dating colleagues within such a closely-knit environment. Her acknowledgment of the associated negativity reveals ongoing tensions that performers face when mixing personal and professional lives.
As Rizzo undergoes recovery from her ACL injury, her reflections suggest a cautious but hopeful perspective on sustaining a meaningful relationship amidst the unique challenges wrestlers endure. The company’s history of intertwined romance and rivalry demonstrates that backstage dating remains a significant, though delicate, aspect of the WWE experience, influencing locker room dynamics and individual careers alike.
Moving forward, Rizzo’s approach may serve as a model for managing personal relationships with care and awareness, while continuing to pursue success both inside and outside the ring.
This conversation was part of Adriana Rizzo’s interview on Justin Stuckey’s Stuck In My Thoughts podcast. The transcription is credited to Sportskeeda Wrestling.
