Lola Vice, a rising star in the wrestling world, is preparing for a significant milestone in her career as she challenges for the NXT Women’s Championship title this Saturday. The match, which will be against current champion Jacy Jayne, is part of the NXT No Mercy event, taking place at the FTL War Memorial in Fort Lauderdale. Fans can catch all the action streaming live on Peacock.
For Vice, whose real name is Valerie Loureda, this match holds special significance as she returns to South Florida, where she spent her formative years in the vibrant community of Miami’s Little Havana. Throughout her journey in wrestling, Vice’s experiences and heritage from Miami have been highlighted as key influences, featured prominently in promotional videos that showcase her upbringing, family, and neighborhood.
In her own words, Vice describes Miami not just as a culture, but as a “heartbeat,” stating that she has carried a piece of it with her wherever she goes. Her transition from mixed martial arts to pro wrestling has been made smoother by these roots and the competitive spirit she inherited from her father, who runs a taekwondo dojo. Her father, a significant figure in her life, has become a prominent part of her NXT storyline, often praised by Vice for instilling a deep passion and intense love for martial arts in her.
Vice’s journey into wrestling began in 2022 after a successful stint in MMA, where she achieved a 4-1 record as a flyweight in Bellator. She participated in a WWE tryout during WrestleMania 38 and was quickly embraced by the pro wrestling community, reporting to the WWE Performance Center in Orlando.
Although Vice found the transition to wrestling physically demanding, with its rigorous schedule of matches compared to MMA, she has embraced the challenge. She notes that her athletic background has equipped her well for the weekly rigors of professional wrestling. Despite the demanding nature of wrestling, Vice remains committed, emphasizing her durability and reliability in the ring.
Regularly performing at the WWE Performance Center, Vice has become accustomed to both intimate and larger venues, each offering its unique set of challenges and rewards. With more than 1,000 seats sold for her upcoming match in Fort Lauderdale, she eagerly anticipates feeling the support of her fans, especially with her family present to witness this pivotal moment.
Vice acknowledges the immense sacrifices her family has made for her success, and she is driven by the desire to honor their legacy. As she steps into the ring on Saturday, she aims to bring the championship title back to her roots and make this occasion a memorable one for both her family and her fans. Her journey from Miami to the wrestling ring is a testament to her dedication, resilience, and the unwavering support she receives from those closest to her.