In the dynamic world of professional wrestling, few stories are as inspiring as that of Stephanie Vaquer. Hailing from San Fernando, Chile, Vaquer has carved a unique path, breaking barriers and setting records across multiple wrestling promotions worldwide. This article delves into her journey, from her early days in Chile to her current prominence in WWE’s NXT brand.
Who is Stephanie Vaquer? Wrestling Career, Titles & Records!
Below is a comprehensive overview of Stephanie Vaquer’s career and achievements:
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ana Stephanie Vaquer GonzΓ‘lez |
| Ring Names | Stephanie Vaquer, Dark Angel |
| Date of Birth | March 29, 1993 |
| Place of Birth | San Fernando, Chile |
| Height | 5 ft 3 in (160 cm) |
| Weight | 110 lbs (50 kg) |
| Trainers | Paul Slandering, Ricky Marvin, Γltimo Guerrero, Gran Apache, Villano IV. |
| Debut | February 2009 |
| Billed From | San Fernando, Chile |
| Nicknames | “La Primera,” “The Dark Angel”. |
| Signature Moves | Package Neckbreaker, Cross Armbreaker, Dragon Screw Legwhip, Headbutt, Running Leg Drop, Springboard Crossbody. |
| Championships and Accomplishments | – Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre (CMLL): – CMLL World Women’s Championship (1 time). – CMLL World Women’s Tag Team Championship (1 time) β with Zeuxis. – Occidente Women’s Tag Team Championship (1 time) β with Zeuxis. – Grand Prix de Amazonas Winner (2023). – New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW): – Strong Women’s Championship (1 time). – WWE NXT: – NXT Women’s North American Championship (1 time, current). – Alianza Universal De Lucha Libre (AULL): – AULL Women’s Championship (1 time). – IWC Legacy: – IWC Women’s Championship (1 time). – Arena Azteca Budokan: – Arena Azteca Budokan International Women’s Championship (1 time). – Arena CuautitlΓ‘n Izcalli: – Mixed Tag Team Championship (1 time) β with Ricky Marvin. |
| Notable Achievements | – First South American woman to hold championships in CMLL, NJPW, and WWE. – Ranked No. 5 in the 2024 PWI Women’s 250. – Competed in major promotions across North America, South America, and Japan. |
| Personal Life | – Holds dual citizenship in Chile and Mexico. – Close friends with Mexican wrestler Reina Dorada. – Known for her passion for rock and metal music, with favorite bands including Arch Enemy and Iron Maiden. |
Stephanie Vaquer’s journey from her early days in Chile to becoming a prominent figure in global wrestling showcases her dedication and impact on the sport.
Disclaimer: The information provided is based on available sources as of February 25, 2025, and may be subject to change.
Early Life and Passion for Wrestling
A Childhood Dream
Ana Stephanie Vaquer GonzΓ‘lez was born on March 29, 1993, in San Fernando, Chile. From a young age, she was captivated by the spectacle of professional wrestling, often watching WWE programs on television. This early exposure ignited a passion that would shape her future.
Pursuing the Dream
At 15, Vaquer began her wrestling training in Chile under the guidance of Paul Slandering. Despite limited resources and professional trainers in her hometown, her determination led her to seek better opportunities abroad. She made the bold decision to move to Mexico, a country renowned for its rich wrestling culture, to further hone her skills.
Breaking into the Mexican Wrestling Scene
Early Challenges
Upon arriving in Mexico in 2013, Vaquer faced numerous challenges. She wrestled in small promotions and took on various jobs, including working as a waitress, to support herself. During this period, she suffered a severe injury, breaking her nose in a match. However, these hardships only strengthened her resolve.
Advanced Training
In Mexico, Vaquer trained under esteemed wrestlers such as Ricky Marvin, Γltimo Guerrero, Gran Apache, and Villano IV. Their mentorship was instrumental in refining her in-ring abilities and understanding of the sport.
International Ventures
Stint in Japan
In 2018, Vaquer expanded her horizons by competing in Japan’s World Wonder Ring Stardom. Over three weeks, she participated in five matches, including a title bout, gaining invaluable international experience.
WWE Tryout
The same year, Vaquer attended a WWE tryout held in Chile. This opportunity marked a significant milestone, showcasing her talent on a global platform and opening doors for future prospects.
Rise in Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre (CMLL)
Historic Signing
August 2019 marked a pivotal moment as Vaquer joined CMLL, becoming the promotion’s first female South American wrestler. This achievement not only highlighted her talent but also paved the way for other South American female wrestlers.
Championship Success
Vaquer’s tenure in CMLL was decorated with multiple titles. Teaming up with Zeuxis, she secured the Occidente Women’s Tag Team Championship in March 2023. Their partnership flourished, leading them to become the inaugural CMLL World Women’s Tag Team Champions in September 2023. Demonstrating her prowess, Vaquer also clinched the CMLL World Women’s Championship later that month, holding both titles simultaneouslyβa first in CMLL history.
New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) and All Elite Wrestling (AEW) Appearances
NJPW Debut
In May 2023, Vaquer represented CMLL in NJPW’s Resurgence event, competing in the Strong Women’s Championship tournament. Although she was eliminated in the semifinals by Mercedes MonΓ©, her performance garnered significant attention.
AEW Collaboration
Vaquer’s momentum continued as she appeared in AEW, confronting Mercedes MonΓ© on an episode of Dynamite in May 2024. This confrontation culminated in a high-stakes match at AEW’s Forbidden Door event in June 2024, where Vaquer, despite a valiant effort, lost her NJPW Strong Women’s Championship to MonΓ©.
Transition to WWE
Signing with WWE
July 2024 marked a new chapter as Vaquer signed with WWE, joining the NXT brand. Her debut match in Mexico City saw her victorious against Isla Dawn, signaling a promising start.
NXT Achievements
Vaquer’s impact in NXT was immediate. In February 2025, at the Vengeance Day event, she defeated Fallon Henley to capture the NXT Women’s North American Championship. This victory was historic, making her the first South American woman to hold a championship title in WWE.
Personal Life and Legacy
Cultural Ambassador
Beyond the ring, Vaquer embraces her dual Chilean and Mexican heritage, often expressing pride in representing both cultures on a global stage.
Advocate for Women in Wrestling
Vaquer’s journey from a passionate teenager in Chile to a champion in WWE serves as an inspiration. She actively advocates for increased representation and opportunities for women in wrestling, aiming to pave the way for future generations.
Conclusion
Stephanie Vaquer’s story is a testament to resilience, passion, and breaking barriers. Her journey through various wrestling promotions, culminating in her historic achievements in WWE, underscores her dedication to the sport. As she continues to make strides, Vaquer remains a beacon of inspiration for aspiring wrestlers worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is Stephanie Vaquer?
Stephanie Vaquer, born Ana Stephanie Vaquer GonzΓ‘lez, is a Chilean professional wrestler known for her groundbreaking achievements across multiple wrestling promotions, including CMLL, NJPW, AEW, and WWE’s NXT brand.
What are some of Stephanie Vaquer’s notable achievements?
Vaquer has held multiple championships, including the CMLL World Women’s Championship, CMLL World Women’s Tag Team Championship, and the NXT Women’s North American Championship. She is notably the first South American woman to hold a championship title in WWE.
Has Stephanie Vaquer competed in AEW?
Yes, Vaquer appeared in AEW in 2024, notably facing Mercedes MonΓ© at the Forbidden Door event, where she defended her NJPW Strong Women’s Championship.
What is Stephanie Vaquer’s wrestling style?
Vaquer is known for her technical prowess and high-flying maneuvers, a blend influenced by her training in Mexico and Japan.
How tall is Stephanie Vaquer?
Stephanie Vaquer stands at 5 feet 3 inches (1.60 meters) tall.
What is Stephanie Vaquer’s nationality?
Vaquer holds dual citizenship, being both Chilean and Mexican.
Is Stephanie Vaquer active on social media?
Yes, fans can follow her on Instagram (@stephanie.vaquer) and Twitter (@steph_vaquer) for updates and insights into her wrestling journey.
What are Stephanie Vaquer’s future aspirations?
While specific plans are private, Vaquer has expressed a desire to continue breaking barriers and inspiring future generations of wrestlers, particularly women from South America.
