In an interview with WWE’s official website, WWE NXT Diva Dana Brooke commented on the transition from modeling and bodybuilding to the world of professional wrestling.

“I have always been active and into sports my entire life and I’ve always wanted to be a star and inspire others. It all started when I was a little girl wrestling with my father and he became my manager; Mr. Perfect and I would hold matches with my stuffed animals. Soon, I started modeling at a young age for little tikes where I became a little camera hog and loved to pose. I did gymnastics for 18 years, but had a major ankle surgery that set me back. In college, where I graduated with a Fashion Merch & Business & Bachelors of Science Degree, I was bored. I just couldn’t work a nine-to-five job. I then started bikini competitions in 2010, where it was about training and looking good, but I wanted more. I ended up falling in love with fitness and earned my IFBB Pro card. Eventually, WWE contacted me, but I was a bit hesitant because I had never wrestled a day in my life, but my motto has always been, if you want something, you will make it work and achieve anything you put your mind to. I started my journey and it’s been the best journey of my life. I’ve learned a lot about myself and life in general.”

The interview is available in full at this link.