Toni Storm’s rapid ascent in AEW has been nothing short of meteoric, but her journey to the top was paved with hard work. The 29-year-old initially became interested in wrestling at a young age, inspired by watching WWE on television. Growing up, she often faced teasing at school for her passion, which diverged from the mainstream interests of her peers.
Her dedication to the sport was evident early on; by 12 years old, she was training and made her debut at 13 with Impact Pro Wrestling. Using the ring name “Storm,” she won her first title in 2010 and faced numerous challenges, including many intergender matches due to a lack of trained women in her area. This experience quickly built her resilience.
As she honed her skills, Storm wrestled across Australia and New Zealand for various promotions before moving to the UK. At 18, she first tried out for WWE but didn’t make the cut. Undeterred, she relocated to Liverpool for rigorous training, eventually gaining recognition for her rock star persona.
Storm made a significant impact in the UK, capturing titles and establishing herself in the international wrestling scene. By 2017, she earned her first championship with Progress Wrestling after helping headline a historic event featuring women. Her time in Japan further solidified her reputation, during which she held the SWA World Championship for an impressive 612 days.
Early WWE Years
In 2017, WWE recognized Storm’s talent as she participated in the inaugural Mae Young Classic. Although she didn’t win, her involvement led to a WWE contract. She quickly became a strong contender in NXT and captured the NXT UK Women’s Championship in January 2019, maintaining the title for 230 days.
After wrestling in high-profile events, Storm’s time with WWE became tumultuous. She requested her release in December 2021, feeling unfulfilled despite her achievements.
AEW Debut
Storm’s stint in WWE didn’t deter her passion; she made her AEW debut a few months later on March 30, 2022, marking the start of a successful campaign. She won the AEW Women’s World Championship and began exploring a new “timeless” persona, characterized by old Hollywood glam and a unique storytelling style.
The Rise of “Timeless” Toni Storm
As she embraced this persona, Storm’s in-ring performances showcased her versatility. Her character developed through feuds and alliances, particularly one with Mariah May, leading to opportunities and challenges that further enriched her narrative.
Today, “timeless” Toni Storm is more than just a champion; she’s become a cultural figure within wrestling. Her appearances in mainstream media, including a role in a film about wrestling’s history, highlight her expanding influence beyond the ring.
Editorial Opinion: Toni Storm’s evolution from the Gold Coast to AEW megastar is emblematic of how determination and passion can transcend challenges in wrestling. Her story resonates with fans, reflecting the sport’s ability to elevate talent and craft compelling narratives that keep audiences engaged.
