Want more wrestling news, rumors, and results? Be sure to visit PWInsider.com and PWInsiderXtra.com.
Ashley Blaze spent time in WWE NXT as Amari Miller, but after several years of discovering her true potential, she's found her place on the weekly series WOW – Women of Wrestling. Her rise to prominence has been fueled by unwavering dedication and a deep passion for sports, and her journey continues to inspire countless fans, especially young women, who now look to her as a role model. Blaze's story is one of resilience, self-discovery, and empowerment, and in an interview with PWInsider.com last week, she opened up about her journey, her inspirations, and her vision for the future.
Ashley’s journey into wrestling didn’t happen overnight. Raised in a sports-centric household, she was immersed in athletics from a young age. Whether it was volleyball, soccer, track, cheerleading, or basketball, Ashley was always engaged in physical activity. It wasn’t about collecting trophies—it was about finding her escape through sports, a way to channel her energy and clear her mind.
“Sports have always been a part of my life. No matter where I was, I had to be athletic. It was my biggest escape,” she recalls. Her love for sports was something she shared with her cousin, a huge wrestling fan. Their shared passion for wrestling led Ashley into the world of professional wrestling, first through video games and YouTube, and then by attending an independent wrestling show. It was there she realized wrestling was her true calling.
Ashley’s early years in the wrestling world were spent on the independent circuit, before finding her way to WWE's developmental system, where she honed her skills and worked to find her identity as a performer. Though she made appearances on WWE programming, her real breakthrough came when she joined WOW, a platform that has given her the visibility and recognition she deserves. As part of the WOW roster, Ashley has had the chance to compete alongside other strong, diverse women—a crucial aspect of her journey.
“When I first joined WOW, I never expected it to feel this good,” Ashley admits. “You don’t always see something great coming, and when it does, it’s even better than you imagined.”
As a Black woman in professional wrestling, Ashley is deeply aware of the impact her visibility has on others. She draws inspiration from groundbreaking athletes like Serena Williams and Simone Biles, and hopes her presence in WOW can serve as a beacon for young girls—especially those of color—who dream of breaking barriers in their own lives.
“For me, it’s not just about wrestling. It’s about being that inspiration for someone else,” she says. “To know that someone out there is watching me and saying, ‘I can do that too,’ is the best feeling ever.”
The importance of diversity and inclusivity is something Ashley holds close to her heart, particularly during Black History Month. "Being part of WOW is a huge honor, especially knowing I can be an inspiration for someone who might feel overlooked," she explains. "I can show them they are important. Being a part of this moment in history, especially during Black History Month, feels like a powerful gift, not just to others, but to myself."
While Ashley has always been an athlete, professional wrestling requires more than just physical skill—it demands mental strength, too. Throughout her career, she’s faced challenges—both personal and professional—while discovering who she truly is on screen and behind the scenes.
Ashley reflects on her journey, saying, “When I started in wrestling, I was just a 19-year-old trying to figure things out. But by the time I was 23 or 24, I faced a mental health struggle that became a turning point for me. I had to ask myself, ‘Who do I want to become?’ Wrestling was always my escape, but it was also where I had to confront my fears and struggles. After getting medically cleared and suffering an ACL tear, I realized: It’s me versus me. I can’t let outside forces shake my foundation. I’ve become stronger than I ever thought I could be, and that strength radiates through my wrestling.”
This renewed confidence is clear when Ashley steps into the ring. Her journey through mental health struggles and physical setbacks has transformed her into the self-assured performer that fans now see every week on WOW. It’s a testament to her growth, both as an athlete and as a person.
One of the most rewarding aspects of being part of WOW for Ashley is the sense of camaraderie among the women in the locker room. “The locker room is amazing. It's a sisterhood,” she says, underscoring the importance of supporting each other. The women of WOW don’t just compete—they help each other grow. “We all fight like sisters, but at the end of the day, we want to lift each other up,” Ashley explains. “That’s something I haven’t seen in a while, and it’s what makes WOW unique.”
The positive atmosphere in the locker room has contributed to the overall success of the show, where every woman is treated as a star. “We’re all center stage. We’re all grand. That’s what makes us stand out,” Ashley says, pointing to the growing appeal of WOW.
Each week, WOW delivers high-energy wrestling, incredible athleticism, and compelling storylines. Ashley believes the promotion is growing stronger with each season. “It’s just like any great show—each season gets better. The matches are getting even better, and the talent on the roster is incredible,” she says. “If you haven’t seen WOW, give it a chance. You might find your new favorite wrestler or discover a character you can’t wait to see lose. And the best part? It’s all women. We’re not in the background; we’re in the spotlight.”
Ashley’s excitement extends beyond the ring. She dreams of WOW expanding its reach, particularly to her hometown of Kansas City. “If WOW ever came to Kansas City, I’d be over the moon,” she exclaims. “Kansas City is a huge sports town, and I know the fans would love it.”
Despite the pressures of being in the public eye, Ashley has found peace in front of the camera. “No matter how nervous or stressed I am, once I step out there, the energy of the crowd makes everything worth it,” she shares. “It feels like home. It’s one of those things you didn’t know was home until you find it.”
Fans who haven’t yet discovered WOW should definitely check it out, especially those looking for motivation or simply great wrestling. With its focus on strong female athletes and larger-than-life, good vs. evil storylines, WOW offers something for everyone.
Ashley Blaze’s journey is just beginning. With her confidence, passion, and relentless drive, there’s no telling how far her star will rise.
You can follow Ashley Blaze on Instagram at @AshleyBlazeScout_ WOW and catch her on WOW Women of Wrestling every week.
If you enjoy PWInsider.com you can check out the AD-FREE PWInsider Elite section, which features exclusive audio updates, news, our critically acclaimed podcasts, interviews and more by clicking here!
Bang On Casino
