AEW’s Marina Shafir Credits Husband Roderick Strong’s Moral Support
Marina Shafir’s Journey from UFC to AEW: Overcoming Challenges in Professional Wrestling
Marina Shafir, a well-known name in both mixed martial arts (MMA) and professional wrestling, transitioned from the UFC to WWE in 2018 before making her way to AEW. Her path from combat sports to the squared circle was not without its challenges, but with the unwavering support of her husband, Roderick Strong, she successfully navigated the transition.
Support from Roderick Strong
Shafir credits Strong, a respected wrestler, for being instrumental in her growth. According to her, he consistently motivated her to embrace the learning process and remain persistent despite setbacks.
“Roddy was my biggest supporter,” Shafir shared. “He encouraged me to keep going, no matter what. Even if you fail, you just have to try again. There are no barriers, only lessons to learn.”
Adjusting to Wrestling’s Unique Demands
Coming from a background where concealing pain was crucial, Shafir found it difficult to adapt to the art of selling in professional wrestling. Unlike MMA, where fighters are trained to hide any signs of weakness, wrestling requires performers to exaggerate pain to enhance storytelling. While this aspect posed a challenge, her combat experience helped her quickly grasp the mechanics of taking falls and executing moves safely.
Debut Match and Early Struggles
Shafir’s first wrestling match took place in Dade City, where she squared off against Rhea Ripley and Xia Li. She recalled feeling nervous but appreciated the encouragement from her peers and the audience.
“It was my first match, and we all knew it wouldn’t be perfect, but people cheered because I showed up and gave it my all. Watching it back now, I cringe a little, but I know it was part of the journey.”
Balancing Motherhood and Wrestling
At the time of her in-ring debut, Shafir had recently become a mother, having given birth to her and Strong’s child the previous year. She believes that balancing motherhood and wrestling helped her earn the audience’s respect, as it showcased her dedication and resilience.
From WWE to AEW
Shafir remained with WWE until 2021 but was released shortly after her tag team partner Jessamyn Duke. Not long after, she found a new home in AEW, where she has become a formidable force. Currently, she plays a key role as Jon Moxley’s enforcer in the Death Riders faction, solidifying her presence in the wrestling world.
Shafir’s journey highlights the dedication required to transition between two demanding sports. With her background in MMA and her growing experience in professional wrestling, she continues to evolve, proving that perseverance and hard work can lead to success in any arena.