Former WWE NXT standout Cora Jade, real name Brianna Coda, has taken an unexpected turn in her career by making her debut as a runway model, stepping away from the wrestling spotlight to embrace the fashion world. On October 17, 2025, Cora made her inaugural catwalk appearance at Moxy Los Angeles’ fashion showcase held at Elysium DTLA, signaling a bold new chapter away from ropes and rings[1][2].
From Squared Circle to Spotlight: Cora Jade’s Career Shift
Cora Jade carved out a name for herself in WWE’s NXT brand, showcasing impressive in-ring skills and a charismatic personality that won her a loyal fanbase. However, in mid-2025, she announced that she would be taking an indefinite break from wrestling to focus on her mental health, candidly sharing her struggles and the impact wrestling had taken on her well-being.
In her heartfelt message, she explained, “I am going to be taking a break from wrestling for the foreseeable future. It’s no longer good for my mental health and I’ll never know if that love for it I once had will return if I don’t step away.” This sincere admission resonated with many fans and fellow wrestlers, highlighting the often-overlooked pressures within the industry[2].
The Fashion Debut: Walking the Runway in Los Angeles
Rather than receding from the public eye, Cora Jade chose to channel her energy into modeling. Her runway debut was part of a high-profile fashion event hosted by Moxy Los Angeles, where she was featured as the headline runway model alongside well-known sponsors such as The Hype House and Fusion Fashion Events.
Taking to social media, Cora excitedly announced her appearance with a promotional flyer and the caption, “This Friday in LA 🔥,” signaling her enthusiasm for this fresh endeavor and inviting fans to support her transition[2].
The show took place in front of a live audience, offering Cora a platform to showcase her versatility and confidence beyond wrestling boots and entrance themes. Sources close to the event described her runway walk as “flawless and commanding,” a testament to her adaptability and star quality.
Insider Perspectives: Reinvention On Her Own Terms
According to a WWE insider familiar with Cora’s situation, “This isn’t just a hiatus for her; it’s a purposeful reinvention. Brianna knows the demands of wrestling, and stepping away allows her to recalibrate both personally and professionally. Fashion provides an outlet for her creativity and a way to remain in the spotlight without the physical and mental toll of wrestling.”
This sentiment aligns with Cora’s own words about prioritizing self-care and exploration. While she has not ruled out a future return to wrestling, it is clear that for now, she is focused on carving out a new niche and expanding her career horizons.
Mental Health and Wrestling: A Growing Conversation
Cora Jade’s decision to pause her wrestling career resonates within a larger movement in sports entertainment, where performers openly discuss the importance of mental well-being. The grueling travel schedules, physical wear and tear, and intense public scrutiny can impact mental health, as seen with other WWE talents who have also taken breaks or sought support.
By addressing her departure candidly, Cora contributes to an ongoing dialogue about the need for greater mental health awareness and resources for wrestlers, emphasizing that stepping away is sometimes necessary for long-term growth and healing.
What’s Next for Cora Jade?
While the runway offers an immediate creative outlet, questions remain about whether fashion modeling is a long-term career path or a temporary detour. Given Cora’s youth (early 20s) and evident passion for performance, there is room for both possibilities.
Industry observers speculate that this modeling debut might either mark the beginning of a full transition into fashion and entertainment or serve as a complementary pursuit alongside a future wrestling comeback.
Fan Reactions and Future Speculations
Fans on social platforms have shown overwhelming support for Cora’s new direction, with many praising her bravery in prioritizing mental health and applauding her runway debut. Some speculate a WWE return once she regains her passion, while others encourage her to pursue fashion full-time, noting her charisma and style.
One fan commented, “Cora’s always been a star; whether it’s wrestling or modeling, she’s going to shine. This break might be exactly what she needs.”
Final Thoughts
Cora Jade’s transformation from WWE NXT wrestler to runway model represents a compelling story of personal growth and reinvention. Her ability to pivot careers while staying authentic to herself is inspiring and highlights her multifaceted talents.
As a WWE insider noted, “Whether in the ring or on the runway, Brianna is a performer at heart. The world is just getting to see a different side of her.”
This transition opens exciting possibilities for Cora Jade’s future, whether that involves a triumphant wrestling return, a growing fashion career, or perhaps a blend of both. For now, she continues to stride confidently on her new path — and fans are eager to see where it leads.
Article published October 18, 2025