Zelina Vega Celebrates Roots as WWE Champion Ahead of Historic SummerSlam

WWE SummerSlam is set to make history as it transforms into a two-night event for the first time ever at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, later this summer. For one star, this gives a special sense of coming home.

Zelina Vega, currently the women’s United States champion, hails from the vibrant setting of Queens, New York, but made her mark as a wrestler in New Jersey, particularly in Union City.

Hometown Pride for Zelina Vega

Reflecting on her journey, Vega shared her experiences training at the Ace Arena in Jersey. She notably trained alongside A.J. Lee during her formative years. Vega emphasized how those early days shaped her career, stating, “Me and A.J. Lee actually trained together in Jersey. It also kind of helped me to prepare for the role, if I’m going to be honest, in ‘Fighting with My Family’ to play her. It was just getting to know her then and applying that now.” This connection to New Jersey runs deep for Vega, who spent countless hours honing her skills in the area.

Her deep ties to the local wrestling community continue to motivate her today. Vega acknowledged how the New York/New Jersey atmosphere significantly influenced her growth as a performer. This dynamic region has served as a canvas for her to develop her craft and prepare for the spotlight she now enjoys.

A New Championship Era

Vega recently clinched the Women’s United States Championship in a remarkable showdown against Chelsea Green following WrestleMania 41. This title represents another opportunity for the expansive women’s roster on SmackDown. Alongside this, the Raw roster features the Women’s Intercontinental Championship, showcasing the evolution of women’s wrestling in the WWE.

Previously, Vega expressed her hopes for WWE to introduce a midcard title. Now, she finds herself as the holder of this newly established belt, marking the first singles championship of her career in the organization.

Emotional Triumph and Legacy

In a candid moment, Vega revealed the depth of her emotions surrounding her recent achievements. “It feels amazing,” she said. “When I was growing up, I just wanted to be a part of it. I made this huge thing in my mind when I was a kid, I was like, ‘I’m gonna be champion, this is gonna happen for me.’” This unwavering determination drove her as a child and serves as a reminder of her journey.

Vega spoke of the satisfaction she finds not just in winning, but also in creating history as the first-ever Queen of the Ring. Her accomplishments have exceeded her childhood dreams, proving that persistence can lead to monumental achievements.

A Message of Inspiration

As she prepares for SummerSlam, Vega has a powerful message for young girls aspiring to follow in her footsteps. She encourages them to believe in themselves and persist despite challenges. “You will have so many nos, you will have so many people giving you reasons as to why you shouldn’t be champion, why you shouldn’t make it where you want to be,” Vega noted. “But as long as you don’t give up on you, no one’s going to stop you.”

Her commitment to self-belief and resilience stands as an inspiring testament to her character and the values she embodies. Vega firmly believes that determination is the key to achieving one’s goals. “If I can do this and I can stand here as champion, it should be proven in so many people’s minds that your own determination is what’s going to get you where you need to be,” she asserted.

Anticipation Builds for SummerSlam

Fans eager to witness the historic SummerSlam can secure their tickets through Ticketmaster. Scheduled for August 2 and 3, the event is poised to be a monumental occasion in wrestling history. Vega reflected on this uniqueness, stating, “It’s our first-ever two-night SummerSlam, which is crazy because usually that’s only WrestleMania.”

The excitement surrounding this change is palpable, especially given its connection to her roots. Vega expressed her enthusiasm, saying, “There’s a lot of buzz about it. The whole week is really gonna be amazing because it’s in just where I grew up. So, it’s kinda cool to feel like it’s a coming home feeling, whether it’s Raw, SmackDown, and then the two-day SummerSlam. It’s gonna be really fun.”

A Legacy in the Making

Zelina Vega’s journey from her beginnings in Queens and New Jersey to the heights of WWE showcases her determination and talent. As she stands at the forefront of women’s wrestling, she exemplifies the possibilities that await those who dare to dream big.

With SummerSlam on the horizon, Vega’s story continues to inspire aspiring wrestlers and fans alike. Her message of perseverance and self-belief resonates deeply in the wrestling community and beyond.