Credit: WWE.com
Despite her rapid ascent within WWE’s NXT brand, Sol Ruca admits she’s still playing catch-up when it comes to professional wrestling history. The 26-year-old star born Calyx Hampton in Ontario, California has quickly claimed multiple championships but only recently embraced the full depth of wrestling’s legacy that she now represents inside the WWE ring.
From Gymnastics to WWE: An Unconventional Path
Sol Ruca’s background is far from the traditional wrestling upbringing. Before stepping into the ring, she built her athletic foundation as a gymnast and acrobatics athlete. She spent over a decade training with Wildfirenastics in Orange County and later competed for the University of Oregon’s acrobatics and tumbling team, helping the Ducks reach national semifinals regularly.
After college, rather than pursuing wrestling, Ruca focused on social media and personal training. Living in Hawaii, she amassed an audience by posting videos of flips, tricks, and beach training sessions content that showcased her athleticism but was unrelated to wrestling.
Her WWE opportunity came unexpectedly through a direct message on Instagram from WWE’s recruiting account. Initially skeptical due to her lack of wrestling fandom or background, she consulted those close to her and decided to try out anyway. “If I go to the tryout and don’t make it, it’s one heck of a story to tell people. If I do make it, then we’ll see what happens,” she recalled about her mindset pre-tryout.
Rapid Development Inside WWE
Since joining WWE in March 2022, Sol Ruca has advanced remarkably fast. She began training at the WWE Performance Center in Orlando, where her gymnastics skills helped her adapt to wrestling’s physical demands. Early guidance from established wrestlers like Alba Fyre was crucial in teaching her not just moves but the essence of wrestling psychology.
Within just a few years, Sol Ruca captured key titles including the NXT Women’s North American Championship and the WWE Women’s Speed Championship. These accomplishments are notable for someone who missed much of 2023 recovering from a torn ACL, demonstrating resilience and dedication.
Still Learning the History and Culture of Wrestling
What sets Sol Ruca apart is her candidness about how little wrestling knowledge she had before joining WWE. Unlike many who grew up watching the sport, she literally had “zero pro wrestling background” prior to signing her contract. Now, she’s immersing herself in wrestling history and lore trying to understand the nuances and heritage that make WWE more than just physical competition.
According to a WWE insider, “Sol’s journey is unique because she entered this world fresh, without the typical fan-based background. The fact she’s thriving despite that shows her work ethic and how quickly she’s learning the ropes, literally and figuratively.”
What’s Next for Sol Ruca?
As of late 2025, Sol Ruca’s trajectory suggests she will continue to be a major player in WWE’s women’s division. Her agility, distinctive in-ring style, and growing wrestling IQ give her a high ceiling. Sources close to the company reveal WWE is investing heavily in her development, seeing her as a fresh face who can connect with both longtime fans and newer audiences who appreciate her dynamic, daredevil approach.
Her long-term potential includes not only championship runs but also becoming a character who highlights how diverse paths can lead to WWE success.
Bringing the Beach Vibes to the Ring
Outside of wrestling, Sol Ruca’s personality shines through her love for surfing and beach culture, which she incorporates into her wrestling persona to create a unique vibe. The laid-back yet fearless attitude makes her matches unpredictable and exciting.
With the “Sol Snatcher” finisher and her signature high-flying offense, Ruca is carving out a distinctive niche. Her story resonates with aspiring athletes who may not have grown up in wrestling but dream of carving their own way in the industry.
