Nia Jax’s Path from College Sports to WWE Stardom

INDIANAPOLIS, IN – Nia Jax, a prominent WWE star, showcased her athletic prowess at the Women’s Royal Rumble held at Lucas Oil Stadium on February 1, 2025. Jax’s journey in sports began long before her wrestling career, rooted in her early days as a collegiate basketball player at Palomar College, where she not only played but also contributed to a championship victory.

Her competitive spirit did not stop with basketball; Jax also explored volleyball, soccer, and softball, demonstrating her versatility and drive to excel in various physical activities. “I was developing, you know, a chest, and my mom wasn’t keen on me playing football,” Jax said. “So, I ventured into volleyball and basketball instead.” Her mother’s concerns stemmed from wanting to protect her daughter, but Jax’s determination to hit hard in sports persisted.

During a recent interview, she revealed, “I wanted to hit [the other players]. That was the fun part for me.” Jax’s assertive play style led her to receive numerous yellow and red cards in soccer, a testament to her intense approach on the field.

Since joining WWE over a decade ago, Jax has cultivated a reputation as one of the company’s most physically dominating performers. She attributes part of this to her Australian roots, stating, “I think we’re just more aggressive down there. Even my cousins that are down there, they’re just so aggressive. They’re rugby players.” Jax highlighted the aggressive nature of Australian sports culture, which resonates in her wrestling performance.

WWE will return to Australia next month for the Crown Jewel event at RAC Arena in Perth on October 11, with Jax expected to be featured prominently, alongside fellow competitors Rhea Ripley and Bronson Reed.

The conversation also shifted to the upcoming Wrestlepalooza Premium Live Event this Saturday. The matchup involving Jax, Tiffany Stratton, and Jade Cargill for the WWE Women’s Championship remains tentative as Stratton’s health status is uncertain following her missed appearances recently.

Insider reports hint at plans for the triple threat match, depending on Stratton’s recovery. “Expect clarification tomorrow night on SmackDown,” noted the source about the situation surrounding the potential bout. Jax has expressed her intent to reclaim the title, asserting that both she and Cargill are ready to prove themselves whenever the opportunity arises.