WWE NXT wrestler Tatum Paxley has acknowledged Alexa Bliss as a major source of inspiration in her journey to becoming a professional wrestler. Paxley shared her story in a recent interview on the Going Ringside podcast, explaining that before joining WWE, she was managing a supplement store and working in retail, which left her feeling unfulfilled and disconnected from her true self.
“I was sitting at a job. I was working, I was managing a supplement store, and retail was just killing me.”
– Tatum Paxley
“It was turning me into something I was not. You know, if you work in retail, you are tough, you know. So years into retail, I’m sitting there, I’m doing powerlifting, and I’m loving it, but I’m missing the performance aspect of what I was doing with cheerleading.”
– Tatum Paxley
How Alexa Bliss Shaped Paxley’s Understanding of Wrestling
Paxley credits discovering WWE matches on YouTube through a friend as the turning point that introduced her to pro wrestling, even though she did not grow up watching the sport. Alexa Bliss particularly stood out to her because of Bliss’s unique ability to bring emotion and storytelling into her performances.
“When you look at her and you see the craziness that she can bring to the ring, like she can tell a story so much with her face and her eyes.”
– Tatum Paxley
“To me, she just stood out. She is what helped me realize that there is more to pro wrestling than just what you see in the ring. She’s the one that made me realize there is story. There’s something to connect with.”
– Tatum Paxley
Alexa Bliss Responds and Shared the Ring with Paxley
Following Paxley’s comments, Alexa Bliss personally responded on X (formerly Twitter), expressing gratitude and anticipation for their next meeting inside the ring.
“thank you ??? for the kindest words – can’t wait til we meet again in the ring ?? @TatumPaxley”
– Alexa Bliss
Last year on WWE NXT, Paxley had the opportunity to join forces with Izzi Dame as they faced Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss in a match for the Women’s Tag Team Titles. Despite not winning, this match was a milestone moment for Paxley, allowing her to perform alongside the very person who inspired her to pursue wrestling.
The Impact of Alexa Bliss on Tatum Paxley’s Career and Future
Alexa Bliss’s influence extends beyond just inspiring Paxley; it represents the blend of athleticism and storytelling that defines modern pro wrestling. Paxley’s journey from retail work to the wrestling ring demonstrates the profound effect a role model can have, fueling her ambition and connection to the sport. As Paxley continues her career on WWE NXT, her bond with her idol Alexa Bliss is likely to remain a motivating force, inspiring her to push the limits of her performance and connect with fans on a deeper level.
thank you 🖤🖤🖤 for the kindest words – can’t wait til we meet again in the ring 🔮😉 @TatumPaxley
— Lexi (Kaufman) Cabrera (@AlexaBliss_WWE) February 26, 2026
