Shayna Baszler Bio
Early Life and Background
Shayna Andrea Baszler was born on August 8, 1980, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. She has a diverse heritage, with German, Hungarian, and Sioux ancestry on her father’s side and Chinese ancestry on her mother’s side. Baszler attended MidAmerica Nazarene University in Olathe, Kansas, where she majored in religious studies. Growing up in South Dakota, she developed an early interest in combat sports, which would later shape her career.
Path to Professional Wrestling
Baszler began her journey in mixed martial arts (MMA) in 2006, gaining recognition for her skills as a submission grappler. She trained under notable figures such as Josh Barnett and Billy Robinson. After competing in various MMA promotions, including the UFC, she transitioned to professional wrestling in 2015. Baszler honed her wrestling skills on the independent circuit and in Japan before signing with WWE in 2017.
Shayna Baszler Career
Early Career (2006–2015)
Baszler’s MMA career began in 2006, where she faced Amanda Buckner in her debut match but lost by TKO. However, she quickly rebounded by winning her next fight against Samantha Gavere via submission. Over the next few years, she competed in various promotions, including EliteXC and Strikeforce, where she faced notable opponents like Cris Cyborg and Sarah Kaufman. Despite facing challenges, Baszler’s resilience and skill in submission grappling earned her a reputation in the MMA community.
WWE Breakthrough (2017–2025)
Shayna Baszler made her WWE debut in the Mae Young Classic tournament in August 2017, where she showcased her formidable grappling skills. Although she lost in the finals to Kairi Sane, her performance caught the attention of WWE officials. She officially signed with WWE and debuted on NXT, where she quickly established herself as a dominant force. Baszler became a two-time NXT Women’s Champion and the first-ever two-time champion in that division, known for her brutal submission techniques and strategic in-ring style. Her tenure in WWE also included multiple reigns as WWE Women’s Tag Team Champion.
Current Team Era (2025–Present)
In 2025, Baszler continued to perform on the independent circuit after her release from WWE. She made her first post-WWE appearance at Prestige Wrestling’s Roseland XII, defeating Dani Luna. Following that, she captured the BRCW Women’s Championship and continued to build her legacy in professional wrestling. Baszler’s return to the ring has been marked by her signature style and a commitment to showcasing her grappling prowess.
Professional Wrestler Style and Strengths
Baszler is known for her technical wrestling ability, particularly her submission skills. Her background in Brazilian jiu-jitsu and Muay Thai allows her to incorporate striking and grappling seamlessly. She often employs a strategic approach in her matches, utilizing her knowledge of various combat sports to outmaneuver her opponents.
Notable Achievements and Milestones
Throughout her career, Baszler has achieved significant milestones, including her reigns as NXT Women’s Champion and WWE Women’s Tag Team Champion. She is recognized for her contributions to women’s wrestling and has become a role model for aspiring female wrestlers.
Shayna Baszler Career Wins
Shayna Baszler has a total of 15 wins in her professional MMA career, with notable victories by knockout and submission. Her wrestling career has also seen her achieve multiple championships and accolades.
Current Independent Circuit Highlights
As of 2025, Baszler has made a successful transition to the independent wrestling scene, capturing the BRCW Women’s Championship and continuing to compete at a high level. Her first post-WWE victory against Dani Luna marked a strong return, showcasing her enduring talent and popularity in the wrestling community.
Previous MMA Achievements
In her MMA career, Baszler recorded 15 wins, including 7 by knockout and 1 by submission. She competed in various prestigious promotions and faced some of the toughest competitors in the sport, solidifying her reputation as a skilled fighter.
Shayna Baszler Family
Family Background and Wrestling Lineage
While specific details about Baszler’s family are not widely publicized, her diverse heritage and upbringing in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, have influenced her journey in combat sports.
Personal Life
Baszler has been open about her identity as part of the LGBTQ community and has been a spokesperson for the establishment of an athletic commission for combat sports in South Dakota. She is also a certified Emergency Medical Technician and has coached a roller derby team, showcasing her commitment to community involvement.
2025 Season Performance
In 2025, Shayna Baszler’s return to the independent wrestling circuit has been marked by strong performances and championship pursuits. Her victory at Prestige Wrestling’s Roseland XII set the tone for her year, while her capture of the BRCW Women’s Championship further solidified her status as a top competitor. As she continues to navigate her post-WWE career, Baszler remains a formidable presence in the wrestling world, with fans eager to see her next moves in the ring.
