Sonya Deville, whose real name is Daria Berenato, is a professional wrestler and former mixed martial artist currently signed to WWE. She first gained prominence as a contestant on WWE’s reality competition series “Tough Enough” in 2015, where she stood out due to her background in MMA and her tough, no-nonsense demeanor.
After “Tough Enough,” Deville quickly transitioned to WWE’s developmental brand, NXT, where she developed her wrestling skills and further honed her character. She made her main roster debut in 2017 as part of the faction Absolution, alongside Paige and Mandy Rose. This group helped to establish her as a formidable force in the women’s division, with her MMA-inspired fighting style making her a unique and credible threat in the ring.
Sonya Deville’s character is characterized by her striking ability, grappling skills, and assertive personality, which have been central to her persona in WWE. Her in-ring style effectively incorporates elements from her MMA background, including submission holds and striking sequences, setting her apart from her peers.
Beyond her wrestling career, Sonya Deville has made significant contributions to WWE as an openly gay wrestler, advocating for LGBTQ+ representation and using her platform to promote inclusivity within the sports entertainment industry. She has been involved in various storylines and roles, including a stint as an on-screen authority figure, where she showcased her skills in a non-competitive capacity, further demonstrating her versatility and charisma.
Sonya Deville’s journey in WWE reflects her evolution from a reality show contestant to a well-rounded professional wrestler and influential figure in the industry, respected for both her athletic prowess and her role as an advocate for inclusivity.