At just 19 years old, Ava Brooks has already carved out a name for herself as the AIWF Women's World Champion, a title she carries with pride and purpose. More than just a rising star in professional wrestling, Ava is a symbol of determination for young women everywhere, proving that age, gender, or doubt can't stand in the way of passion and perseverance. Balancing her in-ring career with studies to become a medical assistant, she represents a new generation of athletes rewriting the rules, breaking barriers, and doing it all with heart.
It's honestly such a powerful feeling. Being the AIWF Women's World Champion at just 19 is something I don't take lightly. This isn't just a belt, it represents every late night, early morning, bruise, doubt, and moment I told myself to keep going. I know there are people out there who probably have their opinions about someone my age holding a world title, but the truth is, times are changing. Wrestling is evolving. Young talent isn't something to overlook anymore, it's something to take seriously. I've worked hard to earn this spot, and I carry that title with pride, not just for myself, but for every young girl who dreams of doing something big and needs to know that it's possible.
When I got the news that I was wrestling for the AIWF Women's World Championship, I just sat there for a moment, letting it all sink in. It felt unreal, like all the hard work, the early mornings and late nights, were finally paying off. I couldn't wait to share it, so I ran downstairs and told my parents because they needed to know why we were driving all the way to North Carolina. Honestly, I didn't think I belonged at that level yet, but others believed in me, and that belief gave me the fire to push myself even harder. I was nervous, excited, and determined all at once. I knew this was my chance to prove to myself and everyone else that I'm ready for whatever comes next.
What really drew me to wrestling again was watching Katie Arquette. From the very beginning, she was someone I looked up to, not just for her strength and presence in the ring, but because she made me believe that this dream was possible. Over time, she became more than just an inspiration, she's been a mentor to me, guiding me through the ups and downs and helping me grow both as a wrestler and as a person. Katie made me want to chase this dream with everything I've got, but also to inspire others the way she inspired me. She showed me that wrestling isn't just about winning matches, it's about connecting with people, showing your true self, and making an impact beyond the ring.
My biggest wrestling influences come from both past and present because every era has shaped who I am today. One of the first wrestlers I ever watched was Rey Mysterio, his incredible energy, creativity, and the way he connects with the crowd made me fall in love with wrestling and showed me the power of passion in this business. From the current women's scene, I really admire Chelsea Green for her toughness and determination to overcome setbacks, Liv Morgan for her resilience and ability to keep fighting no matter what, Toni Storm for her intensity and fearlessness inside the ring, and Britt Baker for her confidence and skill that commands respect. Each of them brings something unique that I try to channel in my own style, and watching them push boundaries reminds me that wrestling is always evolving. Their journeys inspire me to keep working hard, stay true to myself, and carve out my own legacy.
The match against AJ Alexander at RWA in April was one of the toughest I've ever been through. Going over 18 minutes against someone with that level of experience, strength, and intensity pushed me way past my limits. It wasn't just about keeping up physically, it was about staying sharp mentally, adjusting to everything AJ threw at me, and refusing to back down no matter how hard it got. There were moments when I felt completely drained and doubted if I could keep going, but I reminded myself why I started wrestling in the first place. That match taught me so much about endurance, resilience, and what it really means to fight with heart. Even when things got brutal, I kept pushing because this is my passion, and I wasn't going to let anything stop me.
Before I step into the ring, it's all about getting my mind right. I have a few rituals that help me lock in, like taking some deep breaths to calm my nerves, listening to my theme song to get hyped, and praying for strength and focus. I also visualise how I want the match to go and remind myself why I'm there: the hard work, the dreams, and the people who believe in me. It's about focusing on the moment and blocking out everything else. Those few minutes before the bell are mine to gather strength and confidence, so when I step through those ropes, I'm ready to give everything I've got.
I'm starting a new training schedule soon to get back on top of everything. This plan will include training about 4 to 5 days a week, mixing wrestling drills, strength training, and cardio to build endurance and power. I'll be focusing a lot on core work and flexibility because staying agile is key in the ring. Recovery will stay a huge priority, I'll make sure to get good sleep and stretch daily to help my body bounce back. Nutrition and hydration are also a big part of the plan, I want to fuel myself with balanced meals and stay hydrated so I can perform at my best. Wrestling is physically demanding, but this full-time commitment is what helps me stay sharp and ready for whatever the ring throws at me.
One thing I think fans don't always realise about being a professional wrestler is just how much mental toughness it takes, not just physically but emotionally and mentally too. Wrestling is such a demanding career where you're constantly pushing your body to the limit, but it's equally about managing pressure, expectations, and sometimes doubts that creep in.
Every time I step into the ring, I have to be ready to tell a story and connect with the crowd, no matter how tired or worn down I might feel from travel, injuries, or life outside wrestling. While my family travels with me, for a lot of wrestlers, missing family moments like birthdays, funerals, or other important events is part of the reality. Staying disciplined with training and recovery despite all of that takes serious focus and resilience. The mental game is constantly evolving, and learning how to stay motivated and balanced through it all is as important as any move I perform. That side of wrestling is something fans might not see, but it's what really shapes who I am both inside and outside the ring.
There have been moments where I seriously questioned if wrestling was the right path for me. I started young, so balancing wrestling with wanting to live a normal teenage life was a real struggle. There were times when I felt torn between chasing my dream and just having the typical experiences other kids my age were having. Wrestling is tough, physically, mentally, and emotionally, and sometimes the pain, pressure, and sacrifices felt overwhelming. I'd wonder if all the hard work was really worth it, especially when progress felt slow or setbacks hit hard. But whenever those doubts started to take over, I'd think back to why I started this journey, the fire inside me that wrestling ignited, the dreams I refuse to give up on, and the little girl who first found hope and strength in this sport. Those thoughts gave me the strength to keep going. I also knew I wasn't alone, my family, friends, and mentors stood by me, reminding me of my worth and pushing me to believe in myself even when I struggled to.
Overcoming those moments wasn't easy; it meant facing my fears head-on, accepting that setbacks are part of growth, and learning to trust the process. Every challenge has made me more resilient, and every time I step into the ring, I'm reminded that this path is mine, and I'm ready to keep fighting for it.
Honestly, if I could headline a dream match, it'd be against Chelsea Green. I've always respected how tough and real she is, she brings that fire and grit every time she's in the ring. I think a match between us would be super intense and honestly, a lot of fun. We both know what it takes to push ourselves and keep fighting no matter what, so I feel like we'd bring the best out of each other. She's someone who's overcome a lot and kept coming back stronger, and that's the kind of mindset I really connect with. Having a match like that would be about respect, competition, and pushing boundaries, not just for us, but for everyone watching.
Success at a young age can be overwhelming, and there have definitely been moments where it felt like it was all happening too fast. But I've come to realise that staying grounded isn't just about the outside things, it's about the inside work. It means constantly checking in with myself, being honest about my strengths and weaknesses, and remembering the journey that brought me here. My family and close friends are my anchor, they remind me of who I am beyond the ring and keep me humble when the spotlight gets bright. I try to stay focused on growth rather than just achievements because that's what really matters in the long run. At the end of the day, staying grounded is about embracing the process, accepting challenges, and never losing sight of the person I want to become.
A perfect day off for me is all about balance and recharging. Since I'm interning and studying to be a medical assistant, those days can get pretty busy and intense. So when I get a day off, I love just slowing down, catching up on sleep, spending time with my family and my cats, and maybe binge-watching some shows or movies to just relax. I also like to spend some time outside, tanning or going for a walk, to clear my head and soak up some sunshine. It's important for me to take those moments away from wrestling and school to reset mentally and physically so I can come back stronger and more focused. Simple things like good food, laughter, and downtime with the people I care about make a perfect day off.
I actually have really bad social anxiety, which surprises a lot of people because they tell me I look relaxed or calm in the ring, even though I'm actually so nervous inside. Wrestling has been this amazing way for me to push past my fears and step out of my comfort zone. But outside of the ring, social situations can still be really tough for me. Meeting new people, being in crowds, or even just small talk can make me anxious in ways most fans wouldn't expect. It's something I've had to work on over time, and it's definitely a process, not something that just goes away overnight. I try to remind myself that it's okay to feel that way and that being vulnerable about it actually makes me stronger. I hope that by sharing this, fans know there's more to me than just the performer they see, and maybe it helps someone else dealing with anxiety realise they're not alone in it.
My support system means everything to me, and I honestly wouldn't be where I am today without it. From the very beginning, my family has been my biggest rock, they've travelled with me to shows, encouraged me when things got tough, and believed in me even during moments of doubt. Their unwavering support gives me strength and reminds me that I'm never alone on this journey. Beyond my family, my boyfriend and his family have also been incredible. They've welcomed me with open arms, offer constant encouragement, and help keep me grounded when the wrestling world gets overwhelming. Having people around who genuinely care about my well-being makes all the difference.
I'm also grateful for the mentors and close friends who've guided me, shared their wisdom, and pushed me to grow both in and out of the ring. These relationships remind me to stay humble, work hard, and keep my passion alive no matter the challenges. Wrestling is such a demanding path, physically and mentally, but knowing I have this amazing support system behind me helps me face every obstacle with confidence.
Wrestling is such a huge part of who I am, it's what I've given my heart, time, and body to, but I never want it to be the only part of me that people see. I'm also a student, a daughter, a sister, a friend. I have other passions and sides of me that matter just as much, even if they're not always in the spotlight. When people see me in the ring, they see someone who's confident and locked in, but once I step outside those ropes, I'm just Ava.
I like quiet days, spending time with my pets, tanning, journalling, going on drives, or just being around the people I love. I've learned how important it is to have that space to breathe and recharge, especially when you're pouring so much of yourself into this dream. I think a lot of people forget that wrestlers are real people. We go through the same highs and lows, the same doubts, the same need to figure out who we are outside of our careers. I've really tried to protect that part of me, to never lose sight of the things that make me feel whole even when I'm not in the ring.
I'm doing it for the people who've been told they're too soft or too different, or that they don't belong in spaces like this. I want to be proof that you can carve your own path and still keep your heart intact.
There's something really powerful about knowing your presence, your story, your fight, can actually mean something to someone else. I think what drives me most isn't the belts or the recognition or even the 'you made it' moments… it's that maybe, just maybe, someone out there who's watching sees a little of themselves in me. Not just kids, not just girls, but anyone who's ever doubted if they're good enough to go after something that sets their soul on fire. I've felt that. The doubt. The fear of not being enough. The pressure of chasing a dream that doesn't come with a blueprint, especially as someone who started young and gave up a 'normal' life to make this happen. I've questioned myself, I've second-guessed everything, and I've had to pick myself back up more times than I can count. But every time I lace up my wrestling shoes, I remember that I'm not just doing this for me anymore. I'm doing it for the people who've been told they're too soft or too different, or that they don't belong in spaces like this. I want to be proof that you can carve your own path and still keep your heart intact. That you can be passionate, and fierce, and still lead with empathy. That you can chase your goals, even when they scare you, and come out stronger on the other side.
Wrestling's given me purpose. It's taught me how to fight for the things that matter, how to show up even when it's hard, and how to use my platform for something bigger than just wins and losses. That's what keeps me going. Knowing there are people I haven't even met yet who might one day say, "She made me believe I could do it too."
I grew up with social media, it's been around my whole life, so in a way, it just feels natural to be on it. I've used it to help build my brand and connect with people, and honestly, it's opened doors for me that I didn't expect to walk through this early in my career. It's wild how one post or clip can lead to something so real. I've gotten to work with promotions, grow a fanbase, and showcase not just what I do in the ring, but who I am outside of it too. It's helped me tell my story, on my terms. But I'm not naïve to the other side of it. The hate, the judgement, the assumptions, it's all there. And yeah, I see it. Sometimes it stings, especially when it feels like people are picking apart things they don't understand. But I've learned to remind myself that those people don't know me. They don't see the hours I put in, the sacrifices I've made, or the personal things I've had to push through just to be here. They're judging a highlight reel or a clip out of context, not the full picture. I've also realised how important it is to set boundaries with social media. If I need to take a step back, I do. If I need to protect my peace, I will. I try to use it for good, to uplift others, inspire younger girls chasing dreams like I did, and connect with people who truly support me.
Social media's just a tool. It's not my worth. I know who I am with or without the likes, follows, or comments, and that's what keeps me grounded.
If there's one thing I'd say to young women wanting to step into wrestling or any male-dominated field, it's to truly believe in yourself even when it feels like the whole world is doubting you. I can't sugarcoat it, the journey is going to be tough. There will be times when people question your ability just because of your gender or your age. You might face stereotypes, doubt, or even outright dismissal. But that's exactly why your presence matters so much. You're not just fighting for yourself, you're breaking down walls for the women who will come after you.
When I first started, I was one of the youngest in the room, and honestly, I didn't always feel like I belonged. There were moments I questioned whether I had what it took or if I was just chasing a dream that wasn't meant for me. But what kept me going was learning that no one else's opinion defines my worth or my potential. You have to be your own biggest cheerleader. It's about showing up day after day, putting in the hard work even when no one's watching, and trusting that progress is happening, even if it's slow. Don't be afraid to ask questions and seek out mentors. Finding people who believe in you and want to see you succeed is so important. Mentors have been a huge part of my journey, they've shared wisdom, pushed me to get better, and reminded me that I'm not alone in this.
Building a community of support is crucial because wrestling, like any challenging career, can feel isolating at times. Also, embrace what makes you different. The things that might feel like weaknesses or reasons you don't fit in are actually your biggest strengths. Your unique perspective, your style, your story, those are the things that set you apart. Don't try to mould yourself into someone else's idea of success. Create your own path and celebrate every small win along the way. Patience is key. Growth doesn't happen overnight. You'll face setbacks and failures, but those are just lessons disguised as obstacles. Every time you get knocked down, it's a chance to learn, grow, and come back stronger. Believe me, I've had moments where I thought about giving up, but sticking with it has been the best decision of my life. Above all, remember why you started. Keep your passion alive and let it fuel you through the hard days. You're stronger, braver, and more capable than you realise.
The world needs more women who are willing to step into these spaces and show up unapologetically. Your story, your voice, and your fight will inspire others, even when you don't realise it. So keep pushing, keep believing, and never let anyone tell you that you don't belong. You do. You've got this.
Five years from now, I see myself continuing to grow and evolve both in wrestling and in life. In the ring, I want to keep pushing my limits, taking on bigger challenges, and competing at the highest levels. I hope to be a multiple-time champion, but more importantly, I want to be someone who inspires others, not just through titles, but through my passion, work ethic, and how I carry myself every day. Outside of wrestling, I'm working toward building a meaningful life beyond the ring. I'm balancing my training with my medical assistant studies and gaining real-world experience through my internship. I want to establish myself in that career while continuing to pursue wrestling, proving that it's possible to chase multiple dreams without losing sight of what truly matters, family, health, and happiness. In five years, I hope to look back and see that I stayed true to myself, faced challenges head-on, and kept fighting for my goals no matter what. I want to be a role model not only for young wrestlers but for anyone chasing something that feels impossible. Ultimately, I want to build a legacy that's about resilience, heart, and inspiring others to believe in themselves.
If my younger self could see me now, I think she'd have a mix of emotions. First, I imagine she'd be surprised, maybe even a little shocked, at everything I've been through and how much I've grown. I don't think she'd expect to see someone who's still figuring things out, still having doubts and worries, but who's also still here, still fighting, and still chasing that dream. She'd probably wonder if it was really worth it, and I think she'd be proud to see that, despite all the ups and downs, I didn't give up.
In the end, I think she'd smile and tell me, "Keep going. You're doing better than you think." And honestly, hearing that from her would mean the world.
