Lyra Valkyria Bio
Early Life and Background
Aoife Marie Cusack, known in the wrestling world as Lyra Valkyria, was born on 23 October 1996 in Dublin, Ireland. Growing up in a vibrant city, she was exposed to various sports and entertainment forms, which sparked her interest in professional wrestling. Cusack began her journey in wrestling by training at the Fight Factory Pro Wrestling gym in Bray, Ireland, where she honed her skills and developed her passion for the sport.
After her initial training, she traveled to England to further her education in wrestling, which laid the foundation for her future career. Cusack attended Dublin City University, where she studied journalism, balancing her academic pursuits with her dedication to wrestling.
Path to WWE
Cusack made her professional wrestling debut on 2 May 2015, competing in a mixed tag team match for Celtic Cross Wrestling. Initially wrestling under the ring name Valkyrie Cain, she gained experience in various independent promotions across Ireland. Throughout her early career, she faced several challenges but also achieved notable successes, including winning the Irish Junior Heavyweight Championship and the PWU Women’s Championship.
In 2020, Cusack participated in a WWE tryout and subsequently signed with WWE, where she was assigned to NXT UK as Aoife Valkyrie. Her debut match in NXT UK took place on 13 February 2020, where she quickly established herself as a formidable competitor.
Lyra Valkyria Career
Early Career (2015–2020)
During her early years in wrestling, Cusack competed in various independent promotions, where she developed her in-ring skills and built a reputation as a talented performer. She faced off against notable opponents and participated in championship matches, showcasing her determination and resilience. Her time in the independent circuit was marked by significant achievements, including winning the Irish Junior Heavyweight Championship in 2018.
As she continued to rise through the ranks, Cusack’s performances caught the attention of larger promotions, ultimately leading to her signing with WWE in early 2020.
NXT Breakthrough (2020–2022)
After joining WWE, Cusack debuted as Aoife Valkyrie in NXT UK, where she quickly made an impact. She remained undefeated for a significant period, demonstrating her prowess in the ring. However, an unfortunate injury in late 2021 sidelined her for a year, hindering her momentum.
Upon her return, she transitioned to NXT, adopting the ring name Lyra Valkyria. Her debut match in NXT was on 13 December 2022, where she showcased her skills and determination. Valkyria participated in high-stakes matches, including a ladder match for the NXT Women’s Championship at NXT Stand & Deliver in April 2023.
WWE Era (2023–Present)
In 2023, Lyra Valkyria captured the NXT Women’s Championship, marking a significant milestone in her career. She successfully defended her title multiple times, solidifying her status as a top competitor in the division. Her reign lasted 165 days, during which she faced formidable challengers.
In 2024, Valkyria was promoted to the Raw brand, where she made her debut by saving then-Women’s World Champion Becky Lynch from an attack. She quickly established herself on the main roster, competing in high-profile matches and tournaments. Notably, she became the inaugural Women’s Intercontinental Champion in January 2025, further enhancing her legacy in WWE.
Professional Wrestler Style and Strengths
Lyra Valkyria is known for her agility, technical skills, and high-flying maneuvers. Her wrestling style combines athleticism with a strategic approach, allowing her to adapt to various opponents and match types. Her dedication to the craft and ability to engage the audience have made her a standout performer in WWE.
Notable Achievements and Milestones
Throughout her career, Valkyria has achieved significant milestones, including winning the NXT Women’s Championship and the Women’s Intercontinental Championship. Her ability to perform under pressure and deliver memorable matches has earned her recognition as one of the rising stars in professional wrestling.
Lyra Valkyria Career Wins
Lyra Valkyria has made a notable impact in WWE, with several championship wins and significant matches throughout her career. Her victories in both NXT and the main roster have established her as a formidable competitor.
Current WWE Series Highlights
As of 2025, Valkyria holds the Women’s Intercontinental Championship, having successfully defended it against various challengers. Her first major title win came in January 2025, and she has continued to build her reputation as a champion in WWE.
Previous NXT Series Achievements
During her time in NXT, Valkyria was a one-time NXT Women’s Champion, with a reign that showcased her skills and resilience. She participated in several high-profile matches and tournaments, further solidifying her status in the wrestling community.
Lyra Valkyria Family
Family Background and WWE Lineage
Lyra Valkyria, born Aoife Marie Cusack, hails from Dublin, Ireland. While specific details about her family background are not publicly available, her journey in wrestling has been supported by her partner, fellow professional wrestler LJ Cleary, with whom she is engaged.
Personal Life
Outside of wrestling, Valkyria is engaged to LJ Cleary, with their relationship spanning over a decade. They announced their engagement in September 2024, celebrating their commitment to each other amidst their busy wrestling careers.
2025 Season Performance
In 2025, Lyra Valkyria has continued to make waves in WWE, particularly with her reign as the Women’s Intercontinental Champion. Her matches have garnered significant attention, showcasing her growth as a performer on the main roster. The season has seen her engage in intense rivalries, particularly with Becky Lynch, leading to several high-stakes encounters. As she navigates the competitive landscape of WWE, Valkyria’s future looks promising, with fans eagerly anticipating her next moves in the ring.
