Bev Seymore

Written by Bev Seymore

Published: 22 Oct 2025

32-facts-about-zelina-vega
Source: Newsweek.com

Who is Zelina Vega? Zelina Vega, born Thea Trinidad, is a dynamic force in the world of professional wrestling. Known for her fierce persona and impressive in-ring skills, she has made a significant impact in WWE. Beyond wrestling, she’s also an actress, having appeared in movies like "Fighting with My Family." Her journey from managing top wrestlers to becoming a formidable competitor herself is nothing short of inspiring. With a background in modeling and acting, Zelina brings a unique flair to the wrestling scene. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to her story, these 32 facts will give you a deeper look into her life and career.

Table of Contents

Early Life and Background

Zelina Vega, born Thea Megan Trinidad, has a fascinating backstory that shaped her into the wrestling star she is today. Let's dive into some intriguing facts about her early life.

  1. Born on December 27, 1990, in Queens, New York, Zelina Vega grew up in a diverse and bustling environment.
  2. Her father, Michael Trinidad, tragically passed away during the September 11 attacks, which deeply impacted her life and career choices.
  3. Inspired by her father's love for wrestling, she decided to pursue a career in the sport to honor his memory.
  4. She has Puerto Rican heritage, which she proudly represents in her wrestling persona and public appearances.

Wrestling Career Beginnings

Zelina's journey into professional wrestling wasn't easy, but her determination and talent helped her break through. Here are some key moments from her early career.

  1. She trained under the guidance of legendary wrestler Amazing Red, who helped her hone her skills.
  2. Her wrestling debut came in 2010 under the ring name Divina Fly in the independent circuit.
  3. She gained significant attention while wrestling for Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA) as Rosita.
  4. In TNA, she won the Knockouts Tag Team Championship with Sarita, marking her first major title win.

WWE Journey

Zelina Vega's WWE career has been nothing short of spectacular. Let's explore some pivotal moments and achievements.

  1. She signed with WWE in 2017, initially performing in NXT, WWE's developmental territory.
  2. Her debut on NXT television saw her align with Andrade "Cien" Almas, serving as his manager and helping him win the NXT Championship.
  3. Zelina made her main roster debut on SmackDown in 2018, continuing her partnership with Andrade.
  4. Known for her fierce promos and in-ring agility, she quickly became a fan favorite.
  5. In 2020, she transitioned to a solo wrestling career, showcasing her skills in the ring without Andrade.
  6. She competed in the 2021 Women's Royal Rumble, making a strong impression with her performance.

Personal Life and Interests

Beyond the wrestling ring, Zelina Vega has a rich personal life and diverse interests. Here are some lesser-known facts about her.

  1. She married fellow wrestler Aleister Black (real name Tom Budgen) in 2018, and the couple often shares glimpses of their life together on social media.
  2. Zelina is an avid gamer, frequently streaming on platforms like Twitch, where she interacts with fans and plays various video games.
  3. She has a passion for cosplay, often dressing up as her favorite characters from movies, comics, and video games.
  4. Zelina is a fitness enthusiast, regularly sharing her workout routines and fitness tips with her followers.

Acting and Media Appearances

Zelina Vega's talents extend beyond wrestling, as she has ventured into acting and other media appearances. Here are some highlights.

  1. She portrayed the role of AJ Lee in the 2019 film "Fighting with My Family," which tells the story of WWE superstar Paige.
  2. Zelina has made guest appearances on various TV shows, including "Chasing Glory with Lilian Garcia" and "UpUpDownDown."
  3. She has been featured in several wrestling video games, including WWE 2K19 and WWE 2K20, where fans can play as her character.
  4. Zelina has also appeared in music videos, showcasing her versatility as a performer.

Philanthropy and Advocacy

Zelina Vega is not just a talented wrestler and performer; she is also committed to giving back to the community and advocating for important causes.

  1. She actively supports organizations that help families affected by the September 11 attacks, honoring her father's memory.
  2. Zelina is an advocate for mental health awareness, often speaking out about the importance of mental well-being.
  3. She participates in various charity events and fundraisers, using her platform to make a positive impact.

Achievements and Accolades

Zelina Vega's hard work and dedication have earned her numerous accolades throughout her career. Here are some of her notable achievements.

  1. She was ranked No. 31 in the PWI Female 50 in 2011, recognizing her as one of the top female wrestlers in the world.
  2. Zelina won the 2021 Queen's Crown tournament, solidifying her status as one of WWE's top female competitors.
  3. She has been nominated for several wrestling awards, including the Wrestling Observer Newsletter's Best Non-Wrestler award.

Fun Facts and Trivia

To wrap up, here are some fun and lesser-known facts about Zelina Vega that fans might find interesting.

  1. She is a huge fan of anime, often referencing her favorite shows and characters in interviews and on social media.
  2. Zelina has a black belt in Taekwondo, which adds to her impressive arsenal of skills in the wrestling ring.
  3. She is fluent in both English and Spanish, allowing her to connect with a broader audience.
  4. Zelina has a pet dog named Ryu, who often makes appearances on her social media and Twitch streams.

Zelina Vega: A Multifaceted Talent

Zelina Vega isn't just a wrestler; she's a powerhouse of talent. From her early days in independent wrestling circuits to making waves in WWE, her journey is nothing short of inspiring. Her Puerto Rican heritage adds a unique flavor to her persona, making her stand out in the wrestling world. Beyond the ring, she's shown her versatility by diving into acting and cosplay, proving she's more than just a wrestler.

Her dedication to her craft and her ability to connect with fans make her a beloved figure. Whether she's delivering a stunning performance in the ring or showcasing her creativity outside of it, Zelina Vega continues to captivate audiences worldwide. Her story is a testament to hard work, passion, and the endless possibilities that come with embracing one's true self. Keep an eye on her; she's just getting started.

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