The night after WrestleMania 30 was a monumental one for World Wrestling Entertainment. The winds of change blew through the wrestling landscape as Daniel Bryan assumed his spot atop the WWE mountain, The Shield took a stand against injustice in the form of the Authority and new talent made a major impact throughout the show. One of those newcomers was an "enchanting, raven-haired lady," as described by William Regal, named Paige. She came to the ring during AJ Lee's egotistical promo, found herself involved in a Divas Championship match. As most know by now, she stunned her opponent and captured the title. It was a shocking debut and a phenomenal way to introduce to the second-generation British competitor to a worldwide audience who may have only seen a match or two of hers prior to her championship victory. Immediately, they understood that the 21 year-old woman was a major player in WWE and one of the stars they will rely heavily upon in the future. But what about her past? She competed in both NXT and Florida Championship Wrestling, the two developmental systems for World Wrestling Entertainment, but she has also made a name for herself in smaller companies in her home country and in prevalent independent promotions such as Pro Wrestling: Eve and SHIMMER. It was there that she began building a reputation for herself as one of the premiere young prospects in the sport. As she embarks on a journey that hopefully brings her much success, it is important to remember where she came from and to relive the moments that got her to where she is today.
Erik Beaston is a freelance pro wrestling writer who likes long walks in the park, dandelions and has not quite figured out that this introduction is not for Match.com. He resides in Parts Unknown, where he hosts weekly cookouts with Kane, The Ultimate Warrior, Papa Shango and The Boogeyman. Be jealous.
