Former WWE star Aliyah (Nhooph Al-Areebi) joined PWMania.com’s Andy London for Part 2 of an exclusive in-depth interview, where she opened up about her dream of wrestling in the Middle East, pulled WWE storylines, and her future across WWE, AEW, and TNA.
Here are some highlights:
On the dream of wrestling in the Middle East:
“I definitely want to wrestle in the Middle East and be the first Arab woman to do so. Wrestling in Saudi Arabia has always been a dream. And I hear that’s where Royal Rumble is going to be next? What a time to be alive, am I right? Can you imagine the reaction? That will wake ‘em up — it would feel like coming full circle, especially since my dad raced horses there. That connection makes it deeply personal.”
On nixed WWE storylines:
“There were so many storylines and matches I wish had happened — it’s hard to count. Often, ideas would be pitched or even partially approved, but the final decision always came down to someone else. Sometimes I’d be given a pay-per-view spot, and it wouldn’t get announced, or it would get announced and then taken away almost immediately. At the end of the day I can only control what I can.”
On her future in wrestling and the possibility of WWE, AEW, or TNA:
“Oh yes — the million-dollar question. I bring a lot of experience and versatility to the table. At this stage, I can work as a Babyface, Heel, or in a supporting role — whatever helps elevate the product and make the show stronger. I know how to make other performers look good in the ring, engage the audience, and contribute to the product in a way that drives excitement and revenue. My goal is simple: to add value wherever I’m needed and help the roster shine at every level. I also have to do what’s sustainable for me and my future. The cost of being a professional wrestler, especially at my age, is intense with the maintenance: health insurance, gym, chiropractor, massage, personal trainer, house, food, electricity, supplements, gear, hair, clothes, makeup, hotels, immigration lawyer, accountant, PR rep, rental cars, even the dog sitters — I live alone, so the bills really add up. To perform at my best, it has to be the right offer. I believe I can be an asset at all 3 of the major wrestling promotions, whether it’s WWE, NXT, AEW, or even TNA.”
Aliyah also reflected on emotional fan interactions, her favorite WWE moments, and the behind-the-scenes experiences she may one day save for a book. You can check out the complete interview at this link.
Catch up on Part 1 here: https://www.pwmania.com/aliyah-on-life-after-wwe-breaking-barriers-history-making-moment