11 Things You Didn't Know About WWE's Tatum Paxley

Paxley's early days at the WWE Performance Center were tough. She admittedly went into her early training believing she could wrestle no problem, but the pain of even running the ropes was a shock to her system. It was the same story with bumping. That process humbled the rookie, as it does most trainees, but she told Denise Salcedo that she started “enjoying the pain”.

Slow down, Mankind! If Paxley starts wearing a chewed up mask and rocking back and forth, then someone needs to give Mick Foley a call. Look out for the '3 Faces Of Paxley' in an upcoming Royal Rumble, that's all this humble scribe is saying. Yes, yes this was a thinly-veiled excuse to talk about Foley's brilliant Mankind gimmick. What a character.

Realistically, Tatum knew she had the athleticism to succeed long term, but a lot of people walking through WWE’s doors get a fright at how tough it all is. They're athletic too, but pro wrestling is about more than just 'I can run/jump/roll/twist'. The impact of smacking that canvas can take the wind out of people if they aren't careful, and it's being able to take those bumps with a satisfying thump without injuring yourself or others that counts.

Plus, all of the layered story, character work and drama that comes with the biz. Thankfully, this ex-powerlifter loved gritting her teeth and seeing what she'd be capable of when pushing herself to the maximum. It was a painful experience, but a rewarding one that Paxley really warmed to.

WWE found a winner.