Former WWE Women’s Tag Team Champion Sonya Deville, real name Daria Rae Berenato, has officially disclosed her plans following the non-renewal of her WWE contract earlier this year. After a decade-long journey in professional wrestling, which began on WWE Tough Enough in 2015, and a career marked by both in-ring success and off-screen roles, Deville is setting her sights on an entirely new chapter outside the squared circle[4][1][3].
From WWE Exit to New Beginnings: A Positive Outlook
Unlike many talents released abruptly in the WWE roster clearings, Deville’s contract was simply not renewed, allowing her a relatively smooth transition without the typical 90-day non-compete clause restrictions. This has enabled her to consider a wide range of post-WWE opportunities immediately[1].
Speaking openly about her departure, Deville emphasized that she does not view this exit as a setback. Instead, she perceives it as an invitation to explore fresh professional avenues. As she explained, this moment marks “the start of something new” rather than the end of her career journey[4].
A WWE insider shared, “Sonya has always been a fighter, both in and out of the ring. Her mindset after WWE has been about growth and branching out, which fits perfectly with her multifaceted background.” This perspective sheds light on her readiness to pivot beyond wrestling, fueled by resilience and ambition.
The Multifaceted Talent: MMA, Acting, and Advocacy
Deville is uniquely positioned for diverse career paths due to her rich background. Before WWE, she was a mixed martial artist with a professional record of two wins and one loss. Many speculate MMA could be an avenue for a future return, given her prior experience and physical prowess[3][1].
In addition, Deville has cultivated a presence in Hollywood with reality TV appearances and advocacy work in the LGBTQ+ community, where she is viewed as a prominent icon. This crossover appeal suggests acting or media projects are realistic next ventures[1][2].
Her social media activity underscores this transition. After her contract expired, she reverted her Twitter handle to her birth name, Daria Rae Berenato, signaling a fresh start[1]. Cryptic updates such as “To be continued…” highlight an open-ended future, building anticipation among fans for her next moves.
Wise Investments and a Stable Foundation
Beyond performance, Daria has demonstrated financial savvy—investing her earnings into real estate. Reports indicate she owns a portfolio of stylish homes and serene retreats, reflecting a woman who plans strategically for long-term stability and growth outside the entertainment spotlight[2].
This financial independence provides her the freedom to explore new creative and professional territories without immediate pressure, distinguishing her transition from that of typical released wrestlers.
Wrestling Legacy and Final WWE Moments
Sonya Deville’s professional wrestling chapter culminated quietly in early 2025. She appeared last at WWE’s Main Event in February, battling Natalya in a singles match that symbolized the closing of her WWE career[6]. Her title reign alongside Chelsea Green in the Women’s Tag Team division in 2023 was cut short by an ACL injury, which sidelined her for much of her final run[1][3].
Throughout her WWE tenure, Deville also embraced non-wrestling roles, including on-screen authority figure duties, showcasing her versatility within the company.
What’s Next: Industry Speculation and Fan Expectations
Industry insiders and fans alike are placing bets on where Deville’s talents will next be showcased. Potential scenarios include:
- A return to MMA competition, leveraging her fighting background and athleticism.
- Signing with other wrestling promotions such as AEW or Impact Wrestling, where her mic skills and mainstream appeal could thrive.
- Pursuing a serious acting career, capitalizing on her Hollywood connections and charisma.
- Expanding her advocacy and media roles, advocating for LGBTQ+ causes and inspiring audiences in new formats[1].
A source close to Deville stated, “She’s exploring all options right now, and you can expect her to make a splash in whatever field she chooses. It’s clear she’s not done performing — just performing differently.”
Conclusion: A New Chapter for Sonya Deville/Daria Berenato
Sonya Deville’s post-WWE trajectory is an inspiring example of reinvention. By reframing her contract non-renewal as a launching pad and combining athleticism, media savvy, and business acumen, she exemplifies the modern professional athlete prepared for second acts beyond the ring.
Her story is one of perseverance, evolution, and a refusal to be defined by a single career chapter. As fans watch with interest, one thing is clear: the next Sonya Deville—now fully Daria Rae Berenato—is ready to make an impact far beyond WWE’s ropes.