Candice LeRae Bio
Early Life and Background
Candice LeRae Dawson was born on September 29, 1985, in Riverside, California, USA. Growing up in a family with two brothers, she developed a passion for professional wrestling at an early age, often playing sports with her male cousins. LeRae’s interest in wrestling was complemented by her involvement in marching band, where she played the flute and piccolo. She later pursued a degree in culinary arts and worked as a baker at Universal Studios Hollywood.
Path to WWE
LeRae began her professional wrestling career in 2002 with the Empire Wrestling Federation (EWF) and quickly made a name for herself on the independent circuit. She trained under notable figures such as Bill Anderson, Jesse Hernandez, and T.J. Perkins. Over the years, she competed in various promotions, including Combat Zone Wrestling (CZW), Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA), and Pro Wrestling Guerrilla (PWG), where she became the first female champion in the promotion’s history. Her journey culminated in her signing with WWE in early 2018 after competing in the inaugural Mae Young Classic.
Candice LeRae Career
Early Career (2002–2005)
LeRae spent her formative years wrestling for the EWF and the International Wrestling Council. She participated in the ChickFight tournament in 2004 and became a mainstay in EWF, facing off against various competitors. By 2007, she expanded her reach to the Midwestern United States, wrestling for Insanity Pro Wrestling and Ring of Honor (ROH), where she began to gain recognition.
Pro Wrestling Guerrilla Breakthrough (2006–2016)
LeRae made her PWG debut in 2006, where she quickly became a prominent figure. Her storyline with Human Tornado showcased her resilience and ability to stand up for herself. Throughout her time in PWG, she engaged in intergender matches and formed a successful tag team with Joey Ryan, known as the World’s Cutest Tag Team. They won the PWG World Tag Team Championship, solidifying her status in the promotion.
WWE Era (2018–Present)
LeRae debuted in WWE’s NXT brand in May 2017, participating in a battle royal for the NXT Women’s Championship. After signing with WWE in January 2018, she became involved in storylines with her husband, Johnny Gargano. LeRae’s character evolved as she joined the faction The Way alongside Gargano and others. After a brief hiatus, she returned to WWE in September 2022, continuing to compete on the SmackDown brand.
Professional Wrestler Style and Strengths
Candice LeRae is known for her high-energy wrestling style, combining technical skills with a willingness to engage in high-risk maneuvers. Her ability to connect with the audience and her storytelling in the ring have made her a fan favorite.
Notable Achievements and Milestones
LeRae is recognized as the inaugural WWE Women’s Speed Champion and a former NXT Women’s Tag Team Champion. Her career highlights include participating in the Mae Young Classic and competing in multiple high-profile matches at WrestleMania and Royal Rumble events.
Candice LeRae Career Wins
Candice LeRae has achieved significant success across various wrestling promotions, including notable championships and tournament victories.
Current WWE Series Highlights
As of 2025, LeRae has continued to compete actively in WWE, with a total of several wins in high-stakes matches. Her first win in the WWE Women’s Speed Championship marked a significant milestone in her career, showcasing her talent and determination.
Previous Independent Circuit Achievements
Before joining WWE, LeRae had a successful run on the independent circuit, where she held the PWG World Tag Team Championship and the FWE Women’s Championship, among other titles.
Candice LeRae Family
Family Background and WWE Lineage
Candice LeRae is married to fellow professional wrestler Johnny Gargano, with whom she shares one child. Their relationship has been highlighted in various wrestling storylines and media appearances.
Personal Life
LeRae is an avid fan of Disney movies and supports the NHL’s Anaheim Ducks. She has three brothers, one of whom was adopted, and she often shares insights into her personal life through social media and interviews.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 season has seen Candice LeRae continue to establish herself as a formidable competitor in WWE. She has participated in several high-profile matches, including the Royal Rumble, where she showcased her skills against top-tier talent. As the season progresses, LeRae’s storyline has evolved, with her character taking on a more aggressive persona, setting the stage for potential championship opportunities. Her dynamic with Johnny Gargano and other wrestlers continues to captivate fans, making her a key player in the WWE landscape.
