After years of working hard to make her mark in AEW, Marina Shafir truly found her niche in 2025 as a key part of the Death Riders, especially after strong performances in Blood & Guts and Anarchy in the Arena. On the show “Close Up with Renee Paquette,” Shafir discussed her journey and shared that she felt connected to the Death Riders even before the group had officially formed, relating to their original incarnation as the Blackpool Combat Club.
She admired how the group stayed authentic to themselves without relying on exaggerated drama, emphasizing self-discipline and mutual respect. Shafir explained, “I wanted to come to work without sacrificing my soul. It was more about what I could contribute and how I could help make the group better. Being truly selfless—consistently—was what attracted me.”
Shafir also credits a pivotal meeting with Jon Moxley, where she asked for advice on improving, as a significant moment in her development and eventual inclusion in the Death Riders. She said, “I never wanted to be someone I’m not; that’s not me. I asked for feedback to understand where I stood and what steps I needed to take to grow, rather than chasing an arbitrary goal.”
If you quote any part of this, please credit “Close Up with Renee Paquette” and acknowledge Wrestling Inc. for transcription.
Fan Take: This insight into Marina Shafir’s mindset and evolution highlights AEW’s commitment to authenticity and personal growth within its roster. For AEW fans, it’s inspiring to see a wrestler thrive by staying true to themselves, signaling a positive direction for the sport where individuality and genuine connection matter just as much as in-ring skill.
