Mercedes Martinez Bio
Early Life and Background
Jazmin Benitez, known in the wrestling world as Mercedes Martinez, was born on November 17, 1980, in Waterbury, Connecticut. She is of Puerto Rican descent and grew up in a family that encouraged her athletic pursuits. In high school, she excelled in basketball and softball, which laid the groundwork for her future in contact sports. Following her high school career, she attended Teikyo Post University, majoring in criminal justice, where she continued to develop her competitive spirit.
Martinez’s journey into professional wrestling began after an injury sustained while playing basketball in college. This pivotal moment led her to pursue her passion for wrestling, which she described as coming at the right time in her life. She began her training under Jason Knight in October 2000, marking the start of her professional wrestling career.
Path to Professional Wrestling
Mercedes Martinez made her wrestling debut on November 12, 2000, defeating a male wrestler named “Juice.” Her early career was marked by significant exposure in various promotions, particularly under promoter Sheldon Goldberg, who recognized her talent and helped establish a women’s division in New England Championship Wrestling. Throughout the early 2000s, she competed in several independent promotions, honing her skills and gaining recognition in the wrestling community.
Martinez’s dedication and talent led her to become a prominent figure in the independent wrestling circuit, where she won multiple championships, including three WSU Championships and two Shimmer Championships. Her success in these promotions paved the way for her eventual signing with WWE in 2017, where she gained further acclaim.
Mercedes Martinez Career
Early Career (2000–2005)
In her formative years, Mercedes Martinez established herself in various independent promotions, including Connecticut Championship Wrestling and Combat Zone Wrestling. During this time, she faced notable opponents and participated in high-profile matches that showcased her wrestling prowess. Her early career was characterized by a fierce determination to succeed, and she quickly became a standout competitor in the New England wrestling scene.
Martinez’s breakthrough came when she began wrestling for Shimmer Women Athletes in 2005, where she participated in the inaugural event and received critical acclaim for her performances. Her ability to captivate audiences and deliver compelling matches set the stage for her future success in the wrestling industry.
Shimmer Women Athletes Breakthrough (2005–2019)
Martinez’s involvement with Shimmer Women Athletes marked a significant turning point in her career. She debuted at their inaugural event on November 6, 2005, where she faced Sara Del Rey in a highly praised match. Over the years, she became a key figure in Shimmer, competing against top talent and winning the Shimmer Championship multiple times. Her tenure in Shimmer solidified her reputation as one of the premier female wrestlers in the industry.
In addition to her success in Shimmer, Martinez also made a name for herself in various independent promotions, including WXW and WSU, where she captured multiple championships and engaged in memorable feuds. Her ability to adapt and evolve as a performer kept her relevant in the ever-changing landscape of women’s wrestling.
WWE and AEW Era (2017–Present)
In 2017, Mercedes Martinez entered WWE’s Mae Young Classic tournament, where she showcased her skills against some of the best female wrestlers in the world. Although she was eliminated in the semifinals, her performance garnered attention and led to her signing with WWE. During her time in WWE, she competed on the NXT brand and participated in significant storylines, including a stint with the villainous faction Retribution.
After her release from WWE in 2021, Martinez returned to All Elite Wrestling (AEW), where she continued to make an impact. She has been involved in high-profile matches and storylines, including a notable feud with Thunder Rosa. Her return to AEW has reinvigorated her career, allowing her to showcase her talents on a larger platform.
Professional Wrestler Style and Strengths
Mercedes Martinez is known for her technical wrestling skills, agility, and ability to tell a compelling story in the ring. Her experience across various promotions has equipped her with a versatile wrestling style that resonates with fans. Martinez’s strategic approach to matches, combined with her fierce determination, makes her a formidable opponent in any competition.
Notable Achievements and Milestones
Throughout her career, Mercedes Martinez has achieved numerous milestones, including winning the ROH Women’s World Championship and multiple titles in independent promotions. Her matches have often been highlighted as some of the best in women’s wrestling, showcasing her ability to perform at the highest level.
Mercedes Martinez Career Wins
Mercedes Martinez has accumulated a significant number of wins throughout her wrestling career, particularly in independent promotions and major wrestling organizations. Her victories include championship wins and memorable matches that have solidified her status as a top competitor in women’s wrestling.
Current AEW Series Highlights
As of 2025, Mercedes Martinez has continued to compete actively in AEW, where she has secured several wins and participated in high-stakes matches. Her most recent victory came during a significant event, further establishing her as a top contender in the AEW women’s division. Martinez’s ability to adapt and thrive in the competitive landscape of AEW has kept her in the spotlight.
Previous Independent Series Achievements
Before her time in AEW, Martinez was a dominant force in independent wrestling, where she captured multiple championships and earned accolades for her performances. Her success in promotions like Shimmer and WSU laid the groundwork for her future endeavors in major wrestling organizations.
Mercedes Martinez Family
Family Background and Wrestling Lineage
Mercedes Martinez is married and has one child, a son born in 2008. While details about her family background are limited, her commitment to her family remains a priority alongside her wrestling career.
Personal Life
In July 2019, Martinez publicly announced that she is openly lesbian, adding to her visibility as a role model in the wrestling community. She has also shared that she suffers from asthma, which she manages while maintaining her rigorous training and performance schedule.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 season has been a pivotal year for Mercedes Martinez, marked by significant storylines and competitive matches in AEW. As she continues to navigate the challenges of the wrestling landscape, her performances have garnered attention from fans and critics alike. Key victories and rivalries have positioned her as a strong contender for championship opportunities, and her experience and skill set make her a formidable presence in the ring. With a focus on reclaiming her championship status, Martinez is poised for a successful year ahead.
