When you think of the WWE, you probably have a mental image of high-flying action, dramatic storylines, and larger-than-life personalities. Among those personalities, Lana, also known as CJ Perry, certainly made a memorable impact. With her Russian accent, captivating dance moves, and fiery presence, she quickly became a fan favorite, even if her role sometimes involved being the ‘bad guy’.
But the wrestling world is always evolving. Wrestlers come and go, careers take unexpected turns, and the landscape is constantly shifting. So, it’s a fair question: what’s Lana up to now? Has she hung up her wrestling boots? Is she still gracing the ring with her presence? I’m going to take a deep dive into Lana’s career, exploring her journey from NXT to her current endeavors, and answer the question: is Lana still wrestling?
Lana’s Early Wrestling Days and Wwe Debut
Lana’s wrestling journey didn’t begin with a wrestling match; it started with a managerial role. Before stepping into the ring, she was primarily known for her role as the manager and valet for Rusev (later known as Miro). Their on-screen relationship was a key part of WWE storylines for a while. Her initial appearances focused on her fiery personality and her role as Rusev’s mouthpiece, emphasizing his ‘Russian brute’ persona.
Lana’s debut on the main roster was a significant moment. She wasn’t just another manager; she brought a unique flair and charisma to the table. Her signature Russian accent, the way she spoke, and the way she presented Rusev made them a compelling pair. They quickly became one of the most hated, and thus most entertaining, acts in WWE. The ‘Rusev Day’ chants, even when they turned into sarcastic cheers, showed how much she and Rusev impacted the audience.
As Lana’s WWE career progressed, she gradually transitioned from a manager to a wrestler. This transition was a natural evolution, allowing her to showcase her athletic abilities and expand her on-screen character. The training and preparation required to become a wrestler were substantial, but she embraced the challenge. It wasn’t just about learning the moves; it was about understanding the psychology of wrestling, the art of storytelling in the ring, and connecting with the audience on a deeper level.
Training and Preparation
The path to becoming a WWE wrestler isn’t easy. It requires intense training, physical conditioning, and a deep understanding of the craft. Lana’s training regime included:
- Wrestling Schools: Attending wrestling schools to learn the fundamentals of in-ring work, including basic moves, ring positioning, and safety protocols.
- Strength and Conditioning: Dedicated time to build strength, endurance, and agility. This involved weightlifting, cardio exercises, and specialized drills.
- Promos and Character Development: Practicing promos (speeches) to develop her character’s voice, mannerisms, and catchphrases. This is crucial for connecting with the audience.
- In-Ring Practice: Hours spent in the ring, practicing moves, learning how to take bumps safely, and honing her in-ring psychology.
Becoming a WWE wrestler is a full-time commitment, demanding both physical and mental resilience. The travel schedule is grueling, the pressure to perform is constant, and the risk of injury is always present. However, Lana’s perseverance and dedication paid off. (See Also: How Is Wrestling Staged )
Memorable Wwe Storylines and Matches
Throughout her time in WWE, Lana was involved in several memorable storylines and matches that showcased her versatility. Some of the notable moments include:
- Rusev’s Rivalries: Initially, Lana was mainly involved in Rusev’s feuds. Their act, with Lana as the mouthpiece, was a constant presence on television. Her ability to generate heat and interact with the crowd was key.
- The Lana and Bobby Lashley Angle: This storyline was controversial, but it placed Lana directly in the spotlight. It was a bold move that demonstrated her willingness to explore different facets of her character.
- WrestleMania Appearances: Lana competed in several WrestleMania events, including the women’s battle royal. These appearances were a significant achievement, highlighting her progress and recognition within WWE.
- Teaming with Naomi and Asuka: Lana frequently teamed with Naomi and Asuka in tag team matches, showing her ability to work with other wrestlers.
These storylines allowed Lana to showcase her character, her in-ring abilities, and her ability to connect with the audience. While not always in the main event, her presence always added a unique element to the show.
Lana’s Post-Wwe Career
Lana’s WWE career came to an end in June 2021 when she was released from her contract. However, this wasn’t the end of her career; it was simply a new chapter. Since leaving WWE, Lana has been very active in the world of professional wrestling and entertainment.
Independent Wrestling Circuit
After her WWE release, Lana, now known as CJ Perry, quickly joined the independent wrestling circuit. This allowed her to continue wrestling and showcase her skills in a different environment. Independent wrestling provides wrestlers with greater creative freedom and the opportunity to work with a variety of opponents and promotions.
Some of her appearances on the independent circuit included:
- AEW Appearances: She made several appearances on AEW (All Elite Wrestling) shows, which helped her connect with a new audience.
- Impact Wrestling: She wrestled for Impact Wrestling, where she participated in various matches and storylines.
- Other Independent Promotions: She has also appeared for several other independent wrestling promotions, continuing to hone her craft and gain experience.
The independent circuit has allowed Lana to reinvent herself. She has shown her ability to adapt, evolve, and continue to entertain fans. (See Also: Is Carmella Coming Back To Wrestling )
Acting and Other Ventures
Beyond wrestling, Lana has also focused on acting and other ventures. This diversification of her career demonstrates her business acumen and her interest in exploring different avenues of entertainment. Some of her non-wrestling projects include:
- Acting: CJ Perry has pursued acting roles in films and television. She has appeared in various projects, expanding her reach and demonstrating her versatility.
- Social Media: She maintains a strong presence on social media, using it to connect with fans, promote her projects, and share glimpses of her personal life.
- Business Ventures: CJ Perry has engaged in business ventures, including endorsements, collaborations, and other entrepreneurial activities.
Her ability to juggle various projects speaks to her drive, her business sense, and her desire to remain active and engaged in the entertainment industry.
Is Lana Still Wrestling Today?
The million-dollar question: Is Lana still wrestling? The answer is a bit nuanced. While she’s been actively involved in wrestling since leaving WWE, it’s not her sole focus. She is still wrestling, but at the same time, she has other interests and projects.
Here’s a breakdown:
- Active Wrestler: Yes, she continues to wrestle. She has appeared in various promotions and has been involved in matches and storylines.
- Part-Time Schedule: Unlike her time in WWE, her wrestling schedule is more flexible. She chooses the matches and events she participates in, allowing her to balance her wrestling career with other commitments.
- Focus on Other Ventures: She is also focused on acting, social media, and other business ventures. This multi-faceted approach to her career allows her to explore different interests and diversify her income.
So, the short answer is yes, Lana is still wrestling, but it’s now part of a broader career. She is still captivating fans with her in-ring performances when she chooses to step into the ring.
Comparing Lana’s Wwe and Post-Wwe Careers
It’s interesting to compare and contrast Lana’s career in WWE with her career after her release. Each phase offers unique opportunities and challenges. Here’s a quick comparison: (See Also: Are Wrestling Briefs Like Speedos )
| Aspect | WWE Career | Post-WWE Career |
|---|---|---|
| Role | Manager/Wrestler | Wrestler/Actress/Entrepreneur |
| Creative Control | Limited | More control over bookings and projects |
| Schedule | Demanding, Full-Time | Flexible, Part-Time |
| Exposure | High, National/International | Varies, Independent Promotions/Acting |
| Pay | Guaranteed Salary | Project-Based |
| Character Development | Often dictated by WWE | Greater freedom to develop character |
As you can see, the shift from WWE to the independent circuit has given Lana more control over her career. This allows her to pursue her passions and tailor her schedule to her needs.
The Future of Lana’s Wrestling Career
What does the future hold for Lana in the wrestling world? It’s difficult to predict, but here are a few possibilities:
- Continued Independent Appearances: She will likely continue to make appearances in independent promotions, entertaining fans and showcasing her skills.
- Potential Return to Major Promotions: Never say never! There is always a chance she could return to a major promotion like WWE or AEW.
- Focus on Acting: She might focus more on acting, especially if she gets more significant roles in films or television.
- Business Ventures: She will likely continue to expand her business ventures, solidifying her career beyond wrestling.
The beauty of her current situation is that she has choices. She can pick and choose the projects that interest her. Her future is bright, and it will be exciting to see where her career takes her.
Impact on the Wrestling Industry
Lana has made a significant impact on the wrestling industry. Her charisma, her ability to connect with fans, and her willingness to evolve have made her a memorable figure. Even if she’s not a top champion, she has left her mark on the industry.
Her impact includes:
- Inspiring Others: She has inspired many aspiring wrestlers, especially women, to pursue their dreams.
- Breaking Barriers: She has broken barriers and paved the way for other performers to explore different aspects of their characters.
- Entertaining Fans: Ultimately, her ability to entertain fans has been her greatest contribution.
Lana’s career is a testament to perseverance, adaptability, and the power of embracing change. Her journey serves as an inspiration for anyone looking to pursue their passions in the entertainment industry.
Final Verdict
So, is Lana still wrestling? The answer is a resounding yes, though her career has evolved. She has transitioned from WWE to the independent scene and has embraced opportunities in acting and business. This shows her adaptability and entrepreneurial spirit.
Lana’s story is a great example of how you can build a career in professional wrestling and beyond. She continues to entertain fans, whether in the ring or on the screen. Her future is bright, and it will be interesting to see what new ventures she undertakes.
