This interview was conducted via mail correspondence in February 2025 with NXT’s rising star Brinley Reece.
Spotlight on Brinley Reece
From Acrobatics to the WWE Ring
Brinley Reece’s background in gymnastics and tumbling laid the foundation for her dynamic in-ring style. Growing up, she was passionate about movement, excelling in flips, aerial maneuvers, and strength training. Her experience as an acrobat not only gave her physical prowess but also instilled a level of discipline and body control crucial for professional wrestling.
WWE Tryout and Signing
In July 2022, Brinley attended a WWE tryout during SummerSlam weekend in Nashville, Tennessee. Competing among other elite athletes, she impressed WWE recruiters with her agility, strength, and natural charisma. Among the few selected by Paul “Triple H” Levesque, she was officially offered a contract, marking the beginning of her journey in WWE.
NXT Debut and Early Matches
Brinley made her televised debut on October 17, 2023, in the NXT Women’s Breakout Tournament. Although she stepped in as a replacement for an injured competitor, she faced off against Arianna Grace but unfortunately suffered a first-round loss. Despite the setback, her post-match message was one of gratitude and resilience:
“This is only the beginning for the Brinley brand. I’m so blessed for this opportunity, and I will come back stronger.”
Training, Fitness, and Personal Development
Aside from wrestling, Brinley is a certified personal trainer (NASM-CPT) and health coach. She is deeply invested in fitness, nutrition, and overall wellness, often sharing her insights with her growing social media following.
Her commitment to strength training, flexibility, and injury prevention has helped her adapt quickly to WWE’s physically demanding schedule. As she continues to develop her in-ring persona, she remains dedicated to becoming a well-rounded performer, blending athleticism with character work.
Interview with Brinley Reece
Exclusive Interview
1. Your background in tumbling and acrobatics is quite unique. How have these disciplines influenced your wrestling style and in-ring persona?
As a base in cheer it has helped me be able to base/throw people around and flipping helped with my in-ring move set (front walkover clothesline).
2. Can you share your experience from the WWE tryout during SummerSlam weekend in 2022? What was the most challenging aspect, and how did you prepare for it?
I stayed 100% myself and gave 110% effort with everything we did. Most importantly I had FUN and my dad was there for support!
3. Joining the WWE Performance Center as part of the Fall 2022 Rookie Class must have been a significant milestone. What were your initial impressions upon starting your training there?
Nervous, excited, ambitious, and ready to train!
4. You made your NXT debut as a last-minute replacement in the Women’s NXT Breakout Tournament. How did you handle the pressure of stepping into that spotlight unexpectedly?
I always say “Stay ready so you don’t have to get ready” and that’s exactly what I did!
5. Facing Arianna Grace in your debut match presented its own challenges. What did you learn from that experience, and how has it shaped your approach to future matches?
It was my first match so I learned a lot and changed the mindset I have before matches now.
6. Throughout 2024, you’ve participated in high-stakes matches like the 20-woman battle royal and the six-woman gauntlet match. How do you prepare mentally and physically for such demanding contests?
Mentally I write down exactly what I want out of this match and physically I work out, eat healthy food, and do a good warm-up.
7. The NXT women’s division is known for its competitive nature. How do you differentiate yourself and make your mark among such a talented roster?
By staying true to myself, focusing on my progress, and not comparing myself.
8. Injuries are an inherent risk in professional wrestling. Have you faced any setbacks, and if so, how have you managed to overcome them?
Injuries and setbacks light the flame to work harder and come back stronger!
9. Your energetic demeanor and love for fitness are evident. How do you incorporate your fitness regimen into your wrestling training?
In-ring training and fitness training so I’m always in the best health for my matches!
10. As a relatively new talent in WWE, what are your short-term and long-term goals within the company?
Short-term: I have a match on NXT PLE or win the Women’s Championship. Long-term: Match on Wrestlemania.
11. Who have been your mentors or inspirations within the wrestling industry, and how have they impacted your career thus far?
Fit Finlay is one of my coaches who has taught me so much. Charlotte Flair has given me a lot of great advice!
12. Looking ahead, how do you envision the evolution of your character and in-ring style in NXT and beyond?
Right now there hasn’t been too much shown of who Brinley Reece is… that will be shown with time! A lot of evolving!
