Lisa Marie Varon, better known as Victoria in WWE, spent nearly a decade enthralling audiences with her fierce persona and wrestling prowess. Though she initially entered WWE as part of The Godfather’s entourage, Victoria quickly carved out her own path as a formidable and demented villain, squaring off against the blonde beauties of the Attitude Era. Her journey into wrestling, however, was anything but typical and was sparked by a chance encounter with the iconic “Ninth Wonder of the World,” Chyna.
Victoria’s athletic background was evident from an early age. She was selected to cheer at the NFL Pro Bowl in 1989, reflecting her impressive physical capabilities. Initially, Victoria pursued a career in biology and medicine, with plans to become a doctor. It was while working at Crunch Fitness in Los Angeles that her life took an unexpected turn. During an interview with Chris Van Vliet in 2020, Victoria recounted the fateful meeting with Chyna that would alter her career trajectory.
Chyna, despite her fame, had to pay to enter the gym. Victoria, recognizing her, handed her a stack of guest passes for future workouts. They eventually took a hip-hop dance class together, during which Victoria mentioned her connections to wrestling, including friends Trish Stratus and Torrie Wilson. Chyna saw potential in Victoria and encouraged her to consider wrestling. “You have a really good look for it,” Chyna remarked, igniting a spark in Victoria.
Inspired, Victoria sought Chyna’s advice on how to join the then-WWF. Chyna provided her with the address of WWF’s corporate office in Connecticut. Victoria wasted no time, creating a video showcasing her fitness competitions and exercises, which cost her $600. She sent the video to WWF, who responded positively, seeing potential in her as a wrestler. Victoria then found Ultimate Pro Wrestling through a Google search and requested urgent training, needing to learn the craft within 30 days.
Despite the grueling challenge, Victoria persevered. Reflecting on her journey, she never imagined she would spend the next 20 years in professional wrestling, all thanks to that pivotal conversation with Chyna at a West Hollywood gym.
Rising Through the Ranks in WWE and TNA
Victoria’s determination paid off. After training, she returned to WWE on July 7, 2002, on an episode of “Sunday Night Heat,” entering a feud with Trish Stratus, claiming betrayal from their fitness modeling days. Victoria won her first WWE Women’s Championship from Stratus in a hardcore match at Survivor Series that year, holding the title twice during her career.
Victoria’s success continued in TNA, where she performed as “Tara.” She secured the TNA Knockouts Championship five times and the TNA Knockouts Tag Team Championship once with Brooke Tessmacher. Her accomplishments were recognized in 2024 when she was inducted into the Women’s Wrestling Hall of Fame. WWE also honored her in 2021, ranking her among the greatest women’s wrestlers of all time, placing her at No. 14.
Her most recent WWE appearance was in 2021, entering the Women’s Royal Rumble. Despite facing backstage challenges during her first match since 2009, Victoria continued to make her mark in the wrestling world.
Victoria has expressed interest in contributing to AEW behind the scenes, believing she could significantly impact as a trainer and agent, sharing her extensive knowledge and experience with new talent.
Stephen’s Insight
Victoria’s story is a testament to the unexpected turns life can take and the profound impact a single encounter can have. Her journey from aspiring doctor to wrestling superstar showcases the power of seizing opportunities and pursuing passions, even when they diverge from initial plans. Victoria’s legacy in wrestling, marked by her resilience and talent, continues to inspire new generations of wrestlers.
