After a Decade in the Ring, ‘Phoenix’ is Closer than Ever to Her WWE Dream
A New Chapter Unfolds
PETALING JAYA: “Ladies and gentlemen, introducing Nor ‘Phoenix’ Diana from Malaysia!” That announcement may very well echo through the World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) arena in years to come as 26-year-old Nor Diana Khamaruzaman inches closer to the world’s most prestigious professional wrestling stage.
The Journey So Far
The Kuala Lumpur-born athlete has her sights set on following in the footsteps of icons like Chyna and Lita after being selected to compete in “Reality of Wrestling” (ROW), a promotional platform based in the United States. ROW, founded by six-time world champion and WWE legend Booker T, works in partnership with WWE to train professional athletes for WWE Independent Development – a stepping stone to the global stage.
A New Path to WWE
Diana made her debut at the Walker Texas Lawyer Arena in Texas on February 8. “Nine years in this industry, and now being invited to ROW to perform on US television is a huge milestone. I’ll keep going until I reach the highest level. I can finally see the path to WWE. I’m more focused than ever,” she told FMT recently.
A Star on the Rise
Standing at 155cm tall, Diana first made waves in 2019 when her hijab-wearing persona, coupled with her agility in the ring, captivated audiences. She was also listed in Forbes’ “30 Under 30 Asia” 2020, which highlighted young entrepreneurs, leaders, and changemakers across the region.
Reflections and Goals
Reflecting on her journey, Diana recalled almost giving up on her dream when the pandemic brought the world to a standstill. With travel restrictions in place, wrestling events worldwide were halted, affecting her and her team under the Apac Wrestling banner. “I’m hoping 2025 will bring good fortune. I want to expand my reach to Japan, the US, and beyond, so that more people will know the name Nor ‘Phoenix’ Diana. I also want to inspire other hijab-wearing women to chase their dreams and never give up,” she added.
Coach’s Pride
Coach Ayez Shaukat Fonseka, who has been training Diana since 2015, expressed immense pride in her achievements. “This isn’t the first time ROW or WWE has noticed her talent. But now they truly believe in her ability,” he said. “We have the potential to become the biggest wrestling hub in Southeast Asia – but we need support. I hope our success will pave the way for more backing from various parties.”
Conclusion
Nor “Phoenix” Diana is one step closer to achieving her dream of becoming a WWE professional wrestler. With her talent, dedication, and determination, she is poised to make a name for herself in the world of professional wrestling. With the support of her coach and the ROW platform, Nor “Phoenix” Diana is ready to take on the world.
FAQs
- What is Reality of Wrestling (ROW)?
- ROW is a promotional platform based in the United States, founded by six-time world champion and WWE legend Booker T.
- What is the purpose of ROW?
- ROW works in partnership with WWE to train professional athletes for WWE Independent Development – a stepping stone to the global stage.
- What are Nor “Phoenix” Diana’s goals?
- Diana aims to expand her reach to Japan, the US, and beyond, and to inspire other hijab-wearing women to chase their dreams and never give up.
- What is Nor “Phoenix” Diana’s next step?
- Diana will continue to compete in ROW and work towards becoming a WWE professional wrestler.