WWE Superstar Lyra Valkyria recently shared the unexpected inspiration behind her ring name during an appearance on Nerdtropolis’s Reel Insights. The conversation centered around the Netflix docuseries WWE: Unreal’s second season, where she discussed the origins and personal significance of her chosen name.
When asked about something she always carries with her on the road, Valkyria revealed she brings an Irish book titled Skulduggery Pleasant by Derek Landy. She credited this dark fantasy series as the source of her ring name Valkyria.
Yeah, it’s an Irish book called Skulduggery Pleasant by Derek Landy. It’s actually where I got the Valkyria name from.
The book series by Irish author Derek Landy revolves around the adventures of detective Valkyrie Cain and her mentor Skulduggery Pleasant, blending elements of mystery and fantasy.
Lyra Reflects on Her SummerSlam Match with Becky Lynch
In the fifth episode of WWE: Unreal on Netflix, Lyra Valkyria looked back candidly at her match against Becky Lynch at SummerSlam 2025. She expressed deep disappointment in her performance, feeling that she failed to meet the moment during this high-profile contest.
I want to be the person that people say, ‘I absolutely loved wrestling her. She gave me my best match ever.’ And I felt like I let myself down or didn’t rise to meet the occasion,
Lyra Valkyria said.
I didn’t even want to go back up to Gorilla. I felt so overwhelmed.
However, Becky Lynch offered a contrasting view, reassuring that she did not share Valkyria’s harsh self-assessment.
She was very upset with herself, and she just started apologizing to me, and I was like, ‘It’s fine. It’s just wrestling.’ And then she was like, ‘No, it’s not fine. I need you to yell at me.’ And I was like, ‘No. I’m never going to be upset because a wrestling move or moves don’t go our way.’ She’s great. She cares,
Lynch commented on Valkyria’s mindset.
But also, that mindset is why she’s so great, and that’s why she’s going to continue to be great, and that’s why she’s going to get better. Because she doesn’t want the kid gloves. She wants to be told. That’s both a great and terrible mindset. Great for progress, terrible for mental health. And I know this.
The Impact of Lyra’s Mindset on Her Career
Lyra Valkyria’s intense drive and commitment to improving her craft reflect a determination that resonates deeply within WWE. Her decision to adopt Valkyria from a character in an Irish fantasy series emphasizes her connection to stories of strength and resilience, underscoring her approach to wrestling.
Despite the emotional strain she described following the SummerSlam match, the support from experienced peers like Becky Lynch signals ongoing growth opportunities. This dynamic highlights the psychological pressures wrestlers face while striving for excellence and the critical role of mentorship in their development.
As WWE continues to spotlight the personal journeys of its superstars through series like WWE: Unreal, fans gain greater insight into the dedication behind each performer’s in-ring persona. Lyra Valkyria’s story of name origins and self-reflection adds depth to her presence in the sport and gives a glimpse of her potential future trajectory in WWE.
Lyra Valkyria and Becky Lynch recall Lyra’s disappointment with their SummerSlam 2025 match:
Lyra: “I want to be the person that people say, ‘I absolutely loved wrestling her. She gave me my best match ever.’ And I felt like I let myself down or didn't rise to meet the occasion.… pic.twitter.com/SgooQWEGu6
— WrestlePurists (@WrestlePurists) January 20, 2026
