Professional wrestling is full of strong personalities, epic rivalries, and awe-inspiring athleticism, but few names shine as brightly as Dakota Kai. A trailblazer in the squared circle, Kai has carved out a path for herself as both a fierce competitor and an empowering figure for female athletes everywhere.
If you’re a wrestling fan, a sports enthusiast, or a female athlete, read on to discover Dakota Kai’s fascinating story. We’ll explore her early days, her meteoric rise to fame, her in-ring style, record accomplishments, and the legacy she continues to build.
Table of Contents
Who is Dakota Kai?
Dakota Kai, born Cheree Georgina Crowley on May 6, 1988, in Auckland, New Zealand, is a professional wrestler signed to WWE‘s SmackDown brand. Known for her charismatic personality and high-octane wrestling style, Kai isn’t just a star in the world of wrestling—she’s a symbol of resilience and perseverance.
Early Life and Wrestling Roots
Dakota Kai’s passion for professional wrestling started early. Growing up in New Zealand, she drew inspiration from legends like Lita and The Rock, which fuelled her dream of joining the wrestling industry. Before making it to WWE, Kai trained rigorously and built her name in various wrestling promotions worldwide, including Shimmer Women Athletes, Pro Wrestling Alliance (PWA), and Impact Pro Wrestling.
She debuted in 2007 under the ring name “Evie” in New Zealand’s independent circuit. Her impressive performances quickly turned heads, earning her international recognition.
Breaking into WWE
Dakota Kai’s breakthrough came in 2015 when she signed with WWE’s developmental brand, NXT. There, she adopted her now-iconic name and refined her craft, competing against some of the best wrestlers in the business. Her agility, technical prowess, and storytelling ability quickly made her a fan favourite.
One of her defining moments was competing in the inaugural Mae Young Classic in 2017, where she advanced to the quarterfinals. Her journey through WWE has since been highlighted with championship pursuits, faction alliances, and unforgettable rivalries.
Dakota Kai’s Wrestling Style and Signature Moves
Dakota Kai’s in-ring style sets her apart from the competition. Agile, explosive, and highly technical, she brings a unique combination of speed and strength to every match.
Signature Moves
- Kaio-Kick: A devastating corner big boot that’s become her calling card in the ring.
- GTK (Go to Kick): A modified backbreaker paired with a brutal kick for maximum impact.
- Kai-Ropractor: A neckbreaker move that showcases her athleticism and coordination.
Her wrestling style is the perfect mix of calculated strikes and high-flying manoeuvres, making her matches must-watch events.
Record Accomplishments
From her NXT days to her current run on SmackDown, Dakota Kai has achieved several milestones. Below is an overview of her standout accomplishments:
| Year | Achievement | Promotion |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 | Quarterfinalist in Mae Young Classic | WWE NXT |
| 2020 | NXT Women’s Tag Team Champion (with Raquel González) | WWE NXT |
| 2022 | Winner, WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship (twice) | WWE Raw |
| 2023 | Featured in WrestleMania 39 as part of Damage CTRL | WWE SmackDown |
Dakota Kai and Damage CTRL
One of the most impactful points in her career has been as part of Damage CTRL, a faction led by Bayley and including Iyo Sky. This trio has dominated WWE’s women’s division and added a new layer of intensity to Kai’s character.
Their unpredictable, rebellious attitude has left an indelible mark on WWE programming, with Dakota Kai becoming a key player in some of the group’s biggest storylines.
FAQs About Dakota Kai
1. Is Dakota Kai injured right now?
Yes, Dakota Kai has been recovering from an ACL injury sustained in mid-2023. However, fans eagerly anticipate her return to the ring, as her recovery appears to be progressing positively.
2. What nationality is Dakota Kai?
Dakota Kai is of New Zealand nationality and is proud of her Samoan heritage.
3. How old is Dakota Kai?
Born on May 6, 1988, Dakota Kai is currently 35 years old.
4. What is Dakota Kai’s connection to her fans?
Dakota Kai is one of the most fan-friendly wrestlers in WWE. She regularly interacts with her fanbase through social media and genuinely appreciates their support.
5. Does Dakota Kai hold a championship right now?
Currently, Dakota Kai does not hold an active championship due to her injury but is a former two-time WWE Women’s Tag Team Champion.
Why Dakota Kai Inspires Wrestling Fans and Athletes
Dakota Kai’s story is one of grit, perseverance, and constant evolution. From her early days wrestling in New Zealand to becoming an international superstar with WWE, she’s shown that hard work and passion can turn dreams into reality.
But what truly makes Kai stand out is her ability to represent authenticity in a highly dramatised world. Whether it’s her in-ring charisma or her connection with fans, she remains relatable and inspiring for wrestling fans and athletes alike.
With her career still unfolding, there’s no doubt that Dakota Kai will continue to shape the wrestling narrative for years to come.
Final Thoughts
Dakota Kai isn’t just a wrestler—she’s a phenomenon. Her athleticism, engaging personality, and dedication to her craft make her a role model for aspiring female athletes. Whether she’s winning titles, mentoring upcoming talents, or interacting with fans worldwide, Kai proves why she’s one of WWE’s brightest stars.
If you’re ready to stay updated on Dakota Kai’s incredible journey, follow us here for more news, features, and updates from the world of professional wrestling.
