As the wrestling world continues to buzz with electrifying matches and unexpected appearances, Ash by Elegance, formerly known as WWE’s Dana Brooke, stands at the center of an intriguing narrative. Just ahead of her challenge for the TNA Knockouts World Championship against Jordynne Grace at Slammiversary, Elegance reflected on her recent ventures and the fascinating identity dynamics at play in her wrestling journey.
A Cross-Promotional Encounter
During an unexpected appearance at NXT Battleground, where Jordynne Grace defended her NXT Women’s Championship against Roxanne Perez, Elegance found herself in a unique situation. Commentators Vic Joseph and WWE Hall of Famer Booker T appeared uncertain about how to address her: as Dana Brooke, the name synonymous with her WWE tenure, or Ash by Elegance, her new identity in TNA.
In a candid interview on “Busted Open,” Elegance humorously remarked on the confusion. “They didn’t know what to call me. Guys, I’m having an identity crisis,” she said with a chuckle. “Call me whatever. I’m here to show up and show out.”
Her statement underscores a broader theme in her career—embracing change and evolving beyond traditional boundaries. Elegance sees her journey as an opportunity not just for herself but for others in the wrestling community. “It gives another layer and opportunity to the NXT Superstars and TNA wrestlers,” she noted, emphasizing the potential for talent on both brands to explore new horizons.
Bridging Brands, Expanding Horizons
Elegance’s experience of moving between promotions highlights a trend in professional wrestling: the fluidity of talent and the potential for cross-promotional storytelling. “There’s so many amazing talents on both brands that may not be utilized in, I would like to say, their home in TNA or NXT,” she explained. Her presence at NXT Battleground offered a glimpse into the possibilities for wrestlers to transcend brand lines, enriching the narrative and competition within the industry.
“NXT has a lineup of superstars who are just waiting,” Elegance observed, recalling her own journey. “I mean, I was once in their shoes before, like, ‘Come on.'” Her ability to navigate both TNA and WWE environments speaks to the evolving landscape of professional wrestling, where collaboration and competition create compelling stories.
Embracing Change and Optimism
Although Elegance did not capture the TNA Knockouts World Championship at Slammiversary, her outlook remains positive. She views her journey as a testament to resilience and the power of seizing opportunities across different platforms. “Now, having the door open at TNA allows them to think further that, ‘Man, maybe I could go over there,'” she reflected. “It elevates the TNA brand and brings so many more eyes for the crossover promotion to happen. This is a wild time we’re in… Now, we’re embracing one another.”
Her optimism is fueled by the potential for ongoing collaborations and the possibility of returning to WWE. Despite her release from the company in 2023, Elegance’s relationship with WWE appears amicable, suggesting future opportunities for her to navigate between promotions.
Looking Forward
Ash by Elegance’s journey is a testament to the dynamic nature of professional wrestling. Her ability to adapt, embrace new identities, and seize opportunities across different brands speaks volumes about her resilience and ambition. As the wrestling world continues to evolve, Elegance’s story offers inspiration for aspiring wrestlers to forge their paths and create meaningful legacies.
With an eye on future opportunities, Elegance remains hopeful about her career trajectory. Whether in TNA, WWE, or beyond, her journey reflects the power of reinvention and the endless possibilities that await those who dare to embrace change.
