For years, Alicia Fox starred as a supporting member of WWE's Divas roster, oftentimes filling out tag teams for multi-woman bouts. This, despite the fact that she had demonstrated considerable athleticism in her few opportunities to really shine. A former Divas champion, she was largely a transitional titleholder, someone designed to take the title from one performer and deliver to another without ever really having the opportunity to establish themselves. The year 2014 saw her step into the spotlight, the absence of AJ Lee throughout the spring allowing her the opportunity. A series of losses to newcomer Paige resulted in Fox suffering a mental breakdown, because no Diva not named "Bella" can get over without some sort of psychosis, at least according to booking. The leggy young woman would attack ringside personnel, grab soft drinks from fans and douse herself in them, and force popcorn down the throats of her victims. It was a radical direction for the performer, especially since it came from out of nowhere. In fact, Fox had impressed Triple H during a round of NXT television tapings, earning herself the increased exposure. Her performances when given the opportunity were so strong, especially early, that her push resulted in a championship match against Paige at Payback. Despite an aggressive and intense performance, Fox would lose the match via submission. While she remained in the title hunt for weeks afterward, it was her only real opportunity to capture her second title. Thought she did not win the match, Fox still enjoyed a banner year. She appeared on television more than she ever had before and was even announced as one of the new cast members of WWE's Total Divas reality show. Her first episodes are scheduled to air this January.
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.
