Ex-WWE Star Earns Win In MMA Debut
A former WWE star is celebrating their first victory as they venture into the world of mixed martial arts.
Back in September 2024, former WWE star Xia Li made her debut for TNA Wrestling as she looked to continue her career following her release from her former employer.
Now known as Lei Ying Lee, the star is an active part of TNA’s women’s division, but now she’s found success in another field.
Lei Ying Lee made her debut on the May 17th Combat Night MMA event. Although it was billed as an MMA bout, no grappling took place, and both fighters wore kickboxing gear. After three two-minute rounds, Lee was declared the winner by split decision against Myriame Essalki.
View this post on Instagram
What Did Xia Li Do In WWE?
The star began her career with WWE in early 2017, becoming the first Chinese woman to sign for the company. Li spent time in NXT before moving to the main roster in 2021; however, over the next three years, she was rarely given a consistent run on television.
In late 2023, Li wrestled Becky Lynch on Raw before unsuccessfully challenging Lyra Valkyria for the NXT Women’s Title.
After being released by WWE in April 2024, Li headed out onto the independent scene under the name Xia Zhao.