Former WWE star Priscilla Kelly, best known to fans as Gigi Dolin, has opened up about the harrowing mental health struggles she endured during her time with the company. In a candid interview with journalist Denise Salcedo, Kelly revealed that bullying and a toxic environment within WWE pushed her to the brink, leaving her at times suicidal and questioning her future in the industry.
Her revelations have sparked renewed conversation about mental health and workplace culture in professional wrestling, especially within WWE’s developmental system.
A Dark Chapter in WWE
Kelly’s WWE tenure, which included a prominent run as a member of the villainous faction Toxic Attraction, was marked by both on-screen success and behind-the-scenes turmoil. While fans saw her as a confident and charismatic performer, Kelly says the reality was far different.
“I went through a lot of stuff in WWE that kind of shot me into this horrible depression,” Kelly said. “At the tail end of Toxic Attraction, I was severely depressed.”
She described how the emotional toll of her experiences led to a loss of motivation, weight gain, and a sense of detachment from her passion for wrestling. “I was collecting a paycheck, hoping that someday I could get back to who I am and the performer that I am,” she admitted.
Bullying and Its Impact
The most shocking aspect of Kelly’s story is her claim that she was bullied by certain individuals within WWE to the point where she considered ending her life. While she declined to name names, her allegations point to a culture of hostility and exclusion that can sometimes fester behind the scenes.
“Let’s just say some people were very, very, very not nice to me, to the point that I was suicidal for a little bit, because I was really going through it,” Kelly said.
According to a WWE insider who spoke to Ringside News on condition of anonymity, “There have always been whispers about cliques and tension in the locker room, especially in NXT. Sometimes, new talent or those who don’t fit the mold can be targeted, and management doesn’t always step in. It’s a tough environment, and not everyone is equipped to handle it.”
Kelly’s experience is not unique. Over the years, several wrestlers have spoken out about the mental health challenges they faced in WWE, from the pressure to perform to the isolation that can come with life on the road.
The Physical Toll
Just as Kelly began to feel like she was regaining her footing, her career was derailed by a serious injury—a torn meniscus. The timing was devastating, coming at a moment when she was finally starting to feel like herself again.
“That was a huge blow,” she said. “I was just starting to get back on track, and then I got hurt. It felt like everything was falling apart.”
The injury, combined with her ongoing mental health struggles, ultimately led to her departure from WWE earlier this year. Since then, Kelly has returned to the independent scene, wrestling for promotions like Wrestling Revolver and Major League Wrestling.
Life After WWE
Despite the pain of her WWE experience, Kelly says she’s determined to move forward and reclaim her love for wrestling. “I’m happy and excited for whatever the future brings at this point,” she said.
She’s also considering a return to All Elite Wrestling (AEW), where she made appearances before signing with WWE. “I think there’s a lot of stuff that was left on the table,” Kelly said. “I always felt like there was something left on the table over there, and I never got to really have my time.”
One of the biggest appeals of AEW, according to Kelly, is the creative freedom it offers. “Over there, it just seems like you have a little bit more control on where that road can take you—because they allow a little bit more individuality,” she said.
The Bigger Picture
Kelly’s story is a stark reminder of the challenges faced by wrestlers, especially women, in the industry. While WWE has made strides in recent years to promote mental health awareness, incidents like this highlight the need for continued improvement.
“Wrestling is a tough business,” said the WWE insider. “You’re constantly under the microscope, and the pressure can be overwhelming. Companies need to do more to support their talent, especially when it comes to mental health.”
Kelly’s courage in speaking out could help pave the way for change. By sharing her story, she’s not only raising awareness but also offering hope to others who may be struggling in silence.
A Call for Support
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, help is available. Call or text 988, or visit 988lifeline.org for confidential support.
Priscilla Kelly’s journey is a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Despite the darkness she faced, she’s determined to keep moving forward—and to use her voice to make a difference.
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