Sonya Deville, born Daria Berenato on September 24, 1993, in New Jersey, had an early passion for athletics. She attended Seneca High School in Tabernacle, New Jersey, where she excelled both academically and athletically. Before embarking on her professional wrestling career, Sonya was a successful judoka, showcasing her competitive spirit and dedication to honing her skills.
In 2015, Sonya Deville burst onto the wrestling scene as a contestant on WWE Tough Enough. Her raw talent and fierce determination caught the attention of WWE fans, earning her a spot in the highly competitive competition. Although she did not emerge as the winner, Sonya's resilience and tenacity paved the way for her future success in the world of professional wrestling.
Following her appearance on WWE Tough Enough, Sonya Deville signed with WWE and began her training at the WWE Performance Center. She made her NXT debut and quickly made a name for herself as a formidable competitor in the ring. Sonya's unique blend of athleticism and charisma set her apart from her peers, leading to her eventual debut on Raw.
One of Sonya Deville's most notable accomplishments in WWE has been her involvement in the tag team trio Absolution. Alongside Paige and Mandy Rose, Sonya formed a dominant alliance that wreaked havoc on the Raw roster. As part of Absolution, Sonya showcased her skills as a team player while also asserting her individual prowess in the ring.
Beyond her professional accolades, Sonya Deville is known for breaking barriers in WWE. As the first openly lesbian wrestler in WWE history, Sonya has used her platform to promote inclusivity and acceptance within the wrestling community. In February 2023, Sonya announced her engagement to model Toni Cassano, further solidifying her commitment to living authentically and fearlessly.
In addition to her wrestling career, Sonya Deville has expanded her horizons by co-presenting the YouTube show UFC AfterBuzz. Her dynamic personality and passion for combat sports have made her a natural fit for hosting, further showcasing her versatility and talents outside of the ring.
As Sonya Deville continues to make waves in WWE and beyond, her impact on the wrestling world is undeniable. From her early days as a judoka to her current success as a WWE superstar, Sonya's journey is a testament to hard work, perseverance, and unwavering dedication to her craft. Whether she's competing in the ring or advocating for LGBTQ+ representation, Sonya Deville remains a trailblazer in the world of professional wrestling.