Dakota Kai: New Zealand Professional Wrestler Returns to WWE After Injury

Dakota Kai, born Cheree Georgina Crowley in Auckland, New Zealand, has made a significant impact in the world of professional wrestling. She currently performs on WWE’s Raw brand as a member of Damage CTRL and is a former two-time WWE Women’s Tag Team Champion.

Kai’s journey in wrestling began in her home country before she gained international recognition. Her skills and charisma have propelled her to success in various promotions, including Shimmer Women Athletes and Shine Wrestling.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Cheree Crowley, born on May 6, 1988, in Auckland, New Zealand, discovered her passion for professional wrestling at a young age. Her journey from a wrestling fan to a rising star in the New Zealand scene laid the foundation for her future success.

Introduction to Wrestling

Crowley’s fascination with pro wrestling began in her youth. She immersed herself in the world of sports entertainment, watching matches and studying various styles. This early exposure sparked her desire to pursue a career in the ring.

At 19, Crowley took her first steps toward becoming a wrestler. She sought out training opportunities and dedicated herself to learning the craft. Her natural athleticism and determination quickly became apparent.

Initial Impact on the New Zealand Scene

In 2007, Crowley made her professional debut under the ring name Evie. She began competing for Impact Pro Wrestling (IPW), a prominent promotion in New Zealand.

Evie’s talent and charisma quickly caught the attention of fans and promoters alike. She honed her skills through intense matches and rivalries, developing a unique in-ring style.

Her hard work paid off when she captured the IPW Women’s Championship. This title win solidified her status as a rising star in New Zealand wrestling and opened doors for future opportunities.

Rise to Fame in WWE NXT

Dakota Kai’s journey in WWE NXT marked her ascent to prominence in professional wrestling. She quickly established herself as a formidable competitor and fan favorite, leaving a lasting impact on the brand.

NXT Debut and Evolution

Dakota Kai made her NXT debut in 2017, captivating audiences with her unique in-ring style and charismatic persona. Her initial appearances showcased her kickboxing background and high-flying abilities, setting her apart from competitors.

Kai’s character evolved from an underdog babyface to a more aggressive and confident performer. This transformation resonated with fans and caught the attention of NXT management.

Her participation in the inaugural NXT Women’s Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic in 2019 further solidified her status as a rising star in the division.

Notable Rivalries and Alliances

Kai’s career in NXT was defined by intense rivalries and significant alliances. Her feud with Shayna Baszler highlighted her resilience and fighting spirit, earning her respect from peers and fans alike.

A notable alliance formed with Raquel González, leading to their victory in the 2021 Women’s Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic. This partnership propelled both wrestlers to new heights in NXT.

Kai’s heel turn and subsequent rivalry with Tegan Nox shocked fans and added depth to her character. This storyline showcased her versatility as a performer and her ability to portray complex emotions in the ring.

Championship Pursuits

Dakota Kai’s pursuit of championship gold became a central focus of her NXT career. She challenged for the NXT Women’s Championship multiple times and came close to victory on several occasions.

Her tag team success with Raquel González led to them capturing the NXT Women’s Tag Team Championships in 2021. This accomplishment marked Kai’s first title win in WWE.

Kai’s determination and in-ring prowess kept her in contention for singles titles throughout her NXT tenure. Her battles for the NXT Women’s Championship against stars like Io Shirai and Raquel González were highly acclaimed by fans and critics.

Championships and Accomplishments

Dakota Kai has amassed an impressive array of titles and accolades throughout her professional wrestling career. Her achievements span both WWE and international promotions, showcasing her versatility and skill in the ring.

WWE and NXT Title Reigns

Dakota Kai captured the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship twice alongside her Damage CTRL stablemate IYO SKY. Their reigns solidified Kai’s status as a top-tier competitor on the main roster.

In NXT, Kai participated in the NXT Women’s Championship Invitational, demonstrating her potential as a singles competitor. She also won the 2021 Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic with Raquel González, further highlighting her tag team prowess.

Kai’s performances earned her recognition in the form of an NXT Year-end Award, cementing her place as a fan favorite and respected talent within the brand.

International Achievements

Before joining WWE, Dakota Kai made waves in international promotions. She competed in Shimmer Women Athletes, where she vied for the Shimmer Tag Team Championship.

In Australia, Kai claimed the PWWA Championship, establishing herself as a dominant force in the region’s women’s wrestling scene.

Kai’s global success led to her participation in WWE’s Mae Young Classic, where she showcased her skills internationally and caught the attention of WWE officials.

Representation and Legacy

Dakota Kai has significantly contributed to women’s wrestling and Kiwi representation in WWE. Her journey from New Zealand to the global stage has inspired aspiring wrestlers and fans.

Impact on Women’s Wrestling

Dakota Kai’s technical prowess and innovative moves have elevated women’s wrestling. She showcases a unique style that blends high-flying maneuvers with hard-hitting strikes. Her matches often push the boundaries of what’s expected in women’s divisions.

Kai’s work in NXT helped establish the brand’s women’s division as one of the most competitive in wrestling. She has also been involved in several groundbreaking matches and storylines.

Her tag team success further demonstrates her versatility and ability to excel in different roles within WWE.

Influence and Representation

As one of the few New Zealand-born wrestlers in WWE, Dakota Kai is an important representative of her country. Her success has opened doors for aspiring Kiwi wrestlers.

Kai’s journey from independent circuits to the WWE Performance Center highlights the global reach of talent recruitment. In interviews and on social media, she often speaks proudly of her New Zealand heritage.

Her tag team, “These Four Walls,” further showcases international talent in WWE. Kai’s presence helps diversify the roster and brings a unique perspective to storylines and character development.

Frequently Asked Questions

Dakota Kai has generated interest from fans who are curious about her personal life and wrestling career details. The following questions address some common inquiries about the New Zealand-born WWE superstar.

Who is Dakota Kai currently partnered with in her personal life?

Dakota Kai keeps her personal relationships private. She has not publicly revealed if she is currently partnered with anyone.

What is Dakota Kai’s date of birth?

Dakota Kai was born on May 6, 1988. She will be 36 years old on March 1, 2024.

What is Dakota Kai’s real name?

Dakota Kai’s real name is Cheree Georgina Crowley. She was born and raised in Auckland, New Zealand.

Who are Dakota Kai’s parents?

Dakota Kai has not shared information about her parents publicly. She maintains privacy regarding her family members.

Has Dakota Kai been positioned as a face or a heel in her wrestling career?

Dakota Kai has played both face and heel roles during her wrestling career, demonstrating versatility in portraying different characters.

How much does Dakota Kai weigh?

WWE has billed Dakota Kai’s weight at approximately 128 pounds (58 kg). However, wrestlers’ billed weights can sometimes differ from their actual weights.