Brianna Coda, known in the wrestling world as Cora Jade, is an American professional wrestler born on January 14, 2001. She is currently signed to WWE, performing on the NXT brand. Although currently inactive due to a torn ACL, Jade has already made a significant impact in the wrestling world. Her journey from the independent circuit to WWE, including her accomplishments and personal life, paints the picture of a rising star with a promising future.
Early Life and Influences
Coda’s passion for wrestling was ignited at a young age, influenced by her admiration for AJ Lee, a prominent figure in WWE. Growing up in Chicago, Coda was also inspired by local wrestling heroes like CM Punk. Watching matches such as Bayley vs. Sasha Banks at NXT Takeover: Brooklyn further fueled her desire to pursue a career in professional wrestling.
Early Career (2018–2021)
Coda began her wrestling training at the Freelance Wrestling Academy, making her professional debut on December 9, 2018, under the ring name Elayna Black. Her early career saw her participating in various independent circuits, where she quickly made a name for herself.
In 2019, Black won the Zen Of Women’s Athletics Tournament on July 11, marking her first significant accomplishment. She continued to build her reputation by competing in Rise Wrestling’s Regional Rising Stars Tournament, Shimmer Women Athletes, and making her pay-per-view debut at Impact Wrestling’s Prelude to Glory on October 18, 2019.
Her appearances in All Elite Wrestling (AEW) further showcased her talent. She debuted on the October 13, 2020, episode of Dark, and despite losing to Red Velvet, she gained valuable exposure. Black continued to wrestle in AEW, teaming with Leyla Hirsch against Brandi Rhodes and Red Velvet on the November 3 episode of Dark.
WWE Career (2021–Present)
On January 20, 2021, Coda signed a contract with WWE, debuting on the January 22 episode of 205 Live under the ring name Cora Jade. She was paired with Gigi Dolin in the opening round of the 2021 Women’s Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic. Although they were eliminated by The Way (Candice LeRae and Indi Hartwell), Jade’s potential was evident.
Jade’s major breakthrough came on the November 16 episode of NXT, where she joined Raquel González’s team for NXT WarGames. At the event, Jade played a pivotal role in securing the victory for her team in the women’s WarGames match. This performance solidified her as a rising star in the NXT women’s division.
On January 4, 2022, Jade competed for the NXT Women’s Championship in a triple threat match against González and champion Mandy Rose at New Year’s Evil but fell short. However, her perseverance paid off when she and Roxanne Perez defeated Toxic Attraction (Gigi Dolin and Jacy Jayne) at The Great American Bash to become the NXT Women’s Tag Team Champions.
Heel Turn and Solo Success
Jade’s career took a dramatic turn on the July 12 episode of NXT, where she turned heel by attacking Perez, costing her the NXT Women’s Championship match against Mandy Rose. This heel turn marked a new chapter in Jade’s career, as she declared her intentions for solo success and discarded her tag team title belt.
Jade’s newfound persona saw her competing in high-stakes matches, including a 20-woman battle royal to determine the number one contender for the NXT Women’s Championship, and a Weapons Wild match against Perez at Halloween Havoc. Despite facing setbacks, Jade’s character development and in-ring skills continued to evolve.
In May 2023, Jade participated in the tournament for the vacant NXT Women’s Championship, defeating Fallon Henley in the first round but losing to Lyra Valkyria in the semifinals. Following the August 2 episode of NXT, Jade took a hiatus from WWE television.
Return and Injury
After a four-month hiatus, Jade made a dramatic return at NXT Deadline on December 9, attacking NXT Women’s Champion Lyra Valkyria and posing with the title. However, her momentum was halted when she suffered a torn ACL during a match against Valkyria at a live event on January 12, 2024, sidelining her for approximately nine months.
Other Media and Personal Life
Beyond the wrestling ring, Cora Jade has made her mark in video games, debuting as a playable character in WWE 2K23 and appearing in WWE 2K24. Her inclusion in these games reflects her growing popularity and influence in the wrestling community.
Coda is of Italian descent and has openly expressed her admiration for her wrestling idols, particularly AJ Lee and CM Punk. Her personal life has also garnered attention, with past relationships including fellow NXT/WWE wrestler Bron Breakker. As of March 2024, she is in a relationship with college American football player Vincent Winey.
Championships and Accomplishments
Throughout her career, Cora Jade has earned several accolades, including being ranked No. 65 of the top 250 female wrestlers in the PWI Women’s 250 in 2023. Her most notable championship accomplishment to date is the NXT Women’s Tag Team Championship, which she held with Roxanne Perez.
Fan Reception and Future Prospects
Cora Jade’s career has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows, with fans and critics alike voicing their opinions. While some fans praise her mic skills, charisma, and potential, others criticize her in-ring performance and character development. Despite mixed reviews, Jade’s youth and passion for wrestling suggest a bright future ahead.
As Jade recovers from her ACL injury, the wrestling world eagerly awaits her return. With time on her side and a determination to succeed, Cora Jade is poised to continue her rise in WWE and leave a lasting impact on the industry.
Cora Jade’s journey from the independent circuit to WWE highlights her dedication and resilience. Despite facing challenges and setbacks, she has consistently proven her potential and passion for professional wrestling. As she continues to grow and evolve, both in and out of the ring, Cora Jade remains a compelling figure in the wrestling world, with a promising career ahead.
You’re a great girl baby. I am here wishing quick recovery ok. One Love