Priscilla Kelly, formerly known in WWE NXT and currently recognized by her real name on the independent wrestling circuit, recently shared insights about a controversial moment that made waves years ago—a bloody tampon spot. During an appearance on Saraya’s Rulebreakers podcast, Kelly explained the inspiration behind the scene, the backlash it triggered, and how encouragement from wrestling legends helped her endure the intense criticism. The story centers around her decision to perform this daring spot at a California bar show, where the atmosphere was raw and unconventional.
Origin and Execution Behind the Shocking Scene
Kelly recounted that the event was strictly for adults.
“It was a 21 and up bar show in California,”
she recalled. With no traditional wrestling ring, the event featured bar fights, making it the perfect place to try something daring. She approached her wrestling partner, Tuna, about the idea, who responded with enthusiasm: “She was pretty punk rock.” While the tampon itself was genuine, Kelly clarified that the blood was fake, joking about not pushing the limits further since her partner may not have agreed to that. She admitted to initially wanting to unsettle viewers without revealing details. Support came from AEW’s Brody King, who gave her the courage to follow through. Kelly said,
“I asked him, ‘Is this too crazy?’ He was like, ‘F*** that. Do it.’”
The Backlash After Viral Fame
The unconventional stunt rapidly gained viral attention, leading to unexpected personal struggles for Kelly. She described the sudden surge of messages during a part-time job:
“I’m working at GNC and my phone starts going nuts. ‘What the f***.’ My internet is blowing up.”
Early reactions were harsh and disheartening. Icons like Gail Kim expressed disapproval, and many others criticized Kelly’s actions as harmful to women’s wrestling. Kelly recalled being called “disgusting” and an embarrassment, sentiments that weighed heavily on her mental state.
Support from Wrestling Veterans Made a Difference
Amidst the negativity, Kelly found solace when wrestling legend Lita reached out with encouragement, telling her simply, “I think you’re awesome.” Kelly explained,
“That’s all it took to get me out of this mental hole. I didn’t care what anyone else said after that. Lita thought I was cool.”
Additional support came from Tommy Dreamer and Taz, both veterans from ECW, who publicly praised her fearless approach. Kelly shared,
“Tommy tweeted, ‘You, my dear, are hardcore.’ That meant the world.”
Their backing played a crucial role in helping her move past the criticism and maintain her confidence.
Growth and Changing Perspectives Over Time
Reflecting on her journey, Kelly acknowledged how opinions shifted as people became more familiar with her work. She noted,
“Back then, nobody knew who I was. I was just some random chick… but once people see your actual work, it’s different.”
Now, several years later, she embraces her unique and bold creative choices, unbothered by earlier controversy. Her story highlights the complex balance between pushing boundaries and facing public scrutiny in professional wrestling.
