Giulia, the current Women’s United States Champion on WWE SmackDown, was recently seen training alongside AEW star Mina Shirakawa at a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu gym in Azalea Park, Florida. The two former Stardom competitors shared a photo from their workout, highlighting their ongoing connection despite being in different wrestling promotions. Giulia’s presence in WWE, alongside her exceptional skills and charisma, continues to draw attention as she prepares for upcoming matches on the blue brand.
Giulia’s Rise to Prominence in WWE After Stardom Success
The 32-year-old Giulia built her reputation in Japan before transitioning to WWE, where she made an immediate impact in NXT. Capturing the NXT Women’s Championship marked a major milestone, but reaching the main roster on SmackDown allowed her to fully showcase her talents. She quickly defeated notable stars such as Alexa Bliss and Charlotte Flair. Most recently, Giulia secured the Women’s United States Championship by overcoming Zelina Vega and formed a strong alliance with Kiana James, establishing herself as a key competitor on SmackDown.
Giulia’s Recent Matches and SmackDown Developments
On the February 13 episode of SmackDown, Giulia participated in an Elimination Chamber Qualifying Triple Threat match with Alexa Bliss and Zelina Vega. Despite her determination, Giulia did not advance, as Bliss secured the win with a Sister Abigail finishing move on Zelina. The following week, Giulia faced Rhea Ripley in a non-title match that ended in disqualification due to an attack by Nia Jax and Lash Legend on Ripley, delaying any clear outcome from their encounter.
Training Environment Shared by Several WWE and AEW Wrestlers
The Brazilian Jiu Jitsu facility where Giulia and Mina trained, Rudos, is a training hub for many wrestlers, including WWE names such as Shayna Baszler, Karrion Kross, Matt Riddle, Akira Tozawa, Cameron Grimes, Nikki Cross, and Kairi Sane. This environment offers a space for top talent across promotions to hone their craft and hold camaraderie beyond the wrestling ring.
Implications for Giulia’s WWE Future and Championship Aspirations
Giulia’s alliance with established stars and her ongoing training sessions with talent from AEW suggest she is focused on enhancing her skills ahead of bigger challenges on SmackDown. Although she missed out on the Elimination Chamber opportunity, her status as Women’s United States Champion and partnerships within the division could shape significant storylines in the coming months. Fans can anticipate further intense competition as Giulia seeks to maintain her position and potentially capture additional glory on WWE’s blue brand.
“Several other WWE names such as Shayna Baszler, Karrion Kross, Matt Riddle, Akira Tozawa, Cameron Grimes, Nikki Cross, Kairi Sane, and many more also train at Rudos.” – Source
