Sonya Deville on Breaking Barriers, Overcoming Challenges, and Thriving in WWE
The Journey of WWE Superstar Sonya Deville
In a recent episode of Heal Squad with Maria Menounos, WWE superstar Sonya Deville (real name Daria Berenato) opened up about her journey from MMA fighter to wrestling sensation, her public coming-out moment, and the personal and professional challenges she’s faced. Deville, who first entered the public eye through WWE Tough Enough, has since become a groundbreaking figure as the first openly gay female wrestler in WWE history.
Her conversation with Maria Menounos and AfterBuzz host Ollie Dreamer wasn’t just about wrestling—it was about resilience, identity, and the lessons she’s learned along the way.
From MMA Fighter to WWE Superstar
Before stepping into the WWE ring, Deville had a different combat sports career in mind. As a teenager, she moved to South Florida to pursue MMA, training at the world-renowned American Top Team gym. However, life had other plans.
“I was closing the bar at 3 a.m. and up for training at 7 a.m.,” Deville recalled. “It was just about grinding, doing whatever I had to do to make it work.”
Her transition to wrestling happened serendipitously. While working as a host at AfterBuzz TV, she caught the attention of Menounos and her husband, Kevin Undergaro, who saw her potential beyond the MMA world.
“I remember sitting in Maria’s kitchen, and they were like, ‘You’re too pretty to be doing this. We need to get you into something else,’” she shared. That conversation led to her opportunity on WWE Tough Enough, a reality competition that ultimately changed her life.
Coming Out on National Television
One of the most defining moments of Deville’s career happened not in the ring, but on reality TV. During Tough Enough, she was asked if she was in a relationship. That moment forced her into a decision she hadn’t planned for—publicly coming out as gay.
“It was such a simple question, but for me, it was so loaded,” Deville said. “Do I lie? Because I had a girlfriend at the time. Or do I tell the truth and the whole world finds out before I’m ready?”
She decided to be honest, and Triple H, who was on the judging panel, immediately acknowledged the moment: “You just came out on national television.”
What followed was a wave of emotions. “I felt free, but also terrified,” she admitted. The response from fans was mixed at first, but over time, Deville has become an inspiration for LGBTQ+ representation in professional wrestling.
Navigating WWE and Finding Her Voice
Since joining WWE, Deville has worked tirelessly to improve her in-ring skills and persona. She credits acting coach Sean Whalen—whom she connected with through Menounos—for helping her build confidence in her performances.
“You and Kevin recommended Sean to me, and I’ve been working with him ever since,” she told Maria. “It’s changed everything, from my promo work to how I carry myself in the ring.”
Her current feud with former tag team partner Mandy Rose has been one of the most compelling WWE storylines in recent memory. Fans have been drawn to the authenticity of their rivalry, with many even siding with the so-called “heel” (villain) Deville over the “face” (hero) Rose.
“What matters most is that fans feel something,” she explained. “Whether they love me or hate me, they’re invested. That’s all I want.”
The Importance of Representation
As WWE continues to evolve, Deville sees her role as bigger than just winning matches. She’s passionate about making wrestling a more inclusive space.
“I want to be a voice for those who don’t have one,” she said. “The WWE Universe has such a huge LGBTQ+ fan base, and it’s important for them to see themselves represented in the ring.”
She praised WWE for taking strides toward inclusivity, including their Pride Month initiatives. “Stephanie McMahon has been a huge supporter of me using my voice, and that means a lot,” Deville added.
What’s Next for Sonya Deville?
With her in-ring persona evolving and her career hitting new heights, Deville isn’t slowing down. When asked about her future in WWE, she didn’t hold back.
“Mandy better be ready,” she teased. “There’s more coming, and it’s not just physical.”
As for her ultimate goal? The SmackDown Women’s Championship is definitely on her radar.
“I’ve been in the shadows for too long,” she declared. “It’s my time now.”
Sonya Deville’s story is one of resilience, evolution, and unapologetic authenticity. From her days as an aspiring MMA fighter to her rise in WWE, she has proven that taking risks and staying true to yourself can lead to incredible opportunities.
For more insights from inspiring figures like Sonya Deville, be sure to subscribe to the Heal Squad with Maria Menounos podcast via YouTube or Apple Podcasts.
