Former Bellator MMA fighter Valerie Loureda made her WWE in-ring debut during an NXT live event in Orlando, Florida on Saturday night.
The photogenic fighter quickly got the attention of the MMA world for her sultry dance numbers in the cage and her revealing social media presence. Walking away from combat sports with a respectable 4-1 record, Loureda took her talents to the world of sports entertainment. Making her in-ring debut his weekend at a non-televised event, Loureda competed in the evening’s opening contest, a 6-person tag team match with Xyon Quinn and Bronco Nima. They competed against Chase U made up of Andre Chase, Duke Hudson, and Thea Hail.
In July, Loureda officially reported to the WWE Performance Center, nearly three weeks after announcing her retirement from mixed martial arts. She took to Twitter to officially announce her move to the WWE, posing in the middle of Manhattan with the Money in the Bank briefcase as seen below.
“I am honored to become the first Cuban American woman in history to sign with the WWE. I come from a family of immigrants, now it’s my time to represent our Latin culture, I was destined for this. Thank you for this opportunity @WWE @WWENXT I will make you proud. AZUCAR! #305”
I am honored to become the first Cuban American woman in history to sign with the WWE. I come from a family of immigrants, now it’s my time to represent our Latin culture, I was destined for this. Thank you for this opportunity @WWE @WWENXT I will make you proud. AZUCAR! #305 pic.twitter.com/sQ351nuxR8
— Valerie Loureda (@lolavicewwe) June 29, 2022
Valerie Loureda Shares Emotional Message Following WWE Debut
Valerie Loureda took to Twitter again to confirm that her journey as a WWE Superstar has officially begun. Sharing her emotional response to making her debut, Loureda said:
“I did it guys. I just debuted exactly a year ago from my last MMA fight. I didn’t know that was gonna be the last time I’d put my gloves on. But I love what I do and I was born to do this. I’m so excited and I can’t wait for this journey today. My WWE journey has begun. Love you guys. LV.”
Valerie Loureda & her gear 🤩@valerielouredaa pic.twitter.com/BxDgJEUt7W
— Sonya Bayley – WWE Fan 🐑🌈 (@SDevilleLive) November 13, 2022
