Sloane Jacobs: A Rising Star in Wrestling
Sloane Jacobs, born Amelia Herr on January 5, 2003, is an emerging talent in the world of professional wrestling. Known for her work on the independent circuit under the ring name Notorious Mimi and her time in WWE’s NXT, Jacobs has already made a significant impact despite her young age. With a background in taekwondo and professional wrestling training from the renowned Monster Factory, Jacobs has developed a unique in-ring style that combines technical skill, agility, and striking power. This article delves into Sloane Jacobs’ wrestling career, analyzing her in-ring techniques and contributions to the sport.
Early Life and Introduction to Wrestling
Amelia Herr hails from West Chester, Pennsylvania, and graduated from Unionville High School in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, in 2021. Before stepping into the wrestling ring, Herr had already developed a strong foundation in martial arts, particularly taekwondo, where she trained for two years. This background in taekwondo provided her with a solid understanding of striking techniques and discipline, which would later become crucial elements of her wrestling style.
Herr’s passion for wrestling led her to train at the Monster Factory in Paulsboro, New Jersey—a legendary wrestling school known for producing top-tier talent. Under the tutelage of experienced trainers, she honed her craft, mastering the fundamentals of professional wrestling and developing the skills that would set her apart in the ring.
Professional Career
Independent Circuit (2018-Present)
Sloane Jacobs began her wrestling career on the independent circuit in 2018, wrestling under the ring name Notorious Mimi. She quickly gained recognition for her tenacity and skill, competing in various promotions, particularly in the Northeastern United States. Jacobs’ performances on the indie scene showcased her versatility and ability to adapt to different opponents and match types, earning her a reputation as a promising young talent.
In 2021, Jacobs made her debut with All Elite Wrestling (AEW), appearing on AEW Dark: Elevation on October 11 in a match against Penelope Ford. Although she lost the match, her debut in AEW marked a significant milestone in her career, providing her with exposure to a larger audience and the opportunity to compete against established stars.
WWE (2022)
Sloane Jacobs’ talent did not go unnoticed, and in December 2021, she participated in tryouts at the WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida. Impressed by her potential, WWE announced her as part of a new class of recruits in March 2022. Jacobs began training at the Performance Center and soon made her debut on WWE’s NXT brand on March 29, 2022, in a match against Nikkita Lyons.
During her time in NXT, Jacobs faced several notable opponents, including Roxanne Perez and Thea Hail. Despite a series of losses, Jacobs showcased her resilience and determination, eventually securing her first victory in NXT against Thea Hail on the May 3, 2022, edition of NXT 2.0. She also competed in a 20-woman battle royal on the July 19 episode of NXT to determine the number one contender for the NXT Women’s Championship, further solidifying her presence in the division.
Unfortunately, Jacobs’ time in WWE was cut short when she was released from her contract on November 1, 2022, along with other NXT talent. Despite the setback, Jacobs continued to pursue her wrestling career on the independent circuit.
Ring of Honor (2023)
In 2023, Jacobs made her debut in Ring of Honor (ROH) on the April 6 episode of Ring of Honor Wrestling, where she faced Willow Nightingale in a losing effort. She returned to ROH on the June 15 episode, competing against Miranda Alize. While her time in ROH has been challenging, Jacobs continues to develop her in-ring skills and gain valuable experience.
Major League Wrestling (2023)
Sloane Jacobs, under her ring name Notorious Mimi, also made her debut in Major League Wrestling (MLW) in 2023. She competed at the October 14th taping, facing Tiara James. Although Jacobs did not secure a victory, her appearance in MLW marked another step forward in her career, allowing her to showcase her abilities on a new platform.
In-Ring Techniques: A Blend of Striking Power, Technical Skill, and Agility
Sloane Jacobs’ in-ring style is a reflection of her diverse training background, combining elements of taekwondo with the fundamentals of professional wrestling. Her ability to blend striking power with technical wrestling and agility makes her a versatile and formidable competitor. Below is an in-depth analysis of some of her key in-ring techniques:
1. Striking Techniques: Precision and Power
- Roundhouse Kick: One of Jacobs’ most effective strikes is the Roundhouse Kick, a move rooted in her taekwondo background. The Roundhouse Kick is delivered with precision and power, targeting the opponent’s head or midsection. This strike is often used to stagger opponents or create an opening for a follow-up move, showcasing Jacobs’ striking ability and martial arts training.
- Forearm Smash: Jacobs frequently utilizes the Forearm Smash, a powerful strike that targets the opponent’s face or chest. This move is delivered with intensity and is often used to wear down opponents, allowing Jacobs to maintain control of the match. The Forearm Smash is a key component of her striking repertoire, adding physicality to her in-ring style.
2. Technical Wrestling: Mastery of Holds and Counters
- Arm Drag: Jacobs demonstrates her technical wrestling skills with the Arm Drag, a fundamental move that she executes with finesse. The Arm Drag involves tossing her opponent to the mat by their arm, often transitioning into a submission hold or another wrestling maneuver. Jacobs’ use of the Arm Drag highlights her understanding of wrestling fundamentals and her ability to control the pace of the match.
- German Suplex: Another technical move in Jacobs’ arsenal is the German Suplex, a suplex variation that requires both strength and precision. The German Suplex sees Jacobs lifting her opponent from behind and slamming them onto their back, often bridging into a pinning position. This move is a testament to Jacobs’ power and technical proficiency, making it a valuable tool in her repertoire.
3. Submission Techniques: Targeting Specific Body Parts
- Crossface: Jacobs effectively uses the Crossface submission hold, which targets the opponent’s neck and shoulders. The Crossface is applied by wrenching the opponent’s head and neck, forcing them to submit or endure significant pain. Jacobs’ use of the Crossface demonstrates her strategic approach to matches, often focusing on weakening specific body parts to gain an advantage.
- Boston Crab: The Boston Crab is another submission move employed by Jacobs, targeting the opponent’s lower back and legs. By applying pressure to the lower spine and hamstrings, Jacobs can immobilize her opponent and force a submission. The Boston Crab is particularly effective in longer matches, where Jacobs can wear down her opponent’s stamina and resilience.
4. High-Flying Maneuvers: Agility and Risk-Taking
- Diving Crossbody: Jacobs’ agility is on full display with her use of high-flying maneuvers like the Diving Crossbody. This move involves Jacobs leaping off the top rope and crashing down onto her opponent, using her body weight to create impact. The Diving Crossbody is a crowd-pleasing move that highlights Jacobs’ athleticism and willingness to take risks in the ring.
- Springboard Elbow Drop: Another aerial move in Jacobs’ repertoire is the Springboard Elbow Drop. This maneuver sees Jacobs springing off the ropes and delivering a precise elbow drop to her opponent. The Springboard Elbow Drop requires both agility and timing, and Jacobs executes it with a high level of skill, making it one of her signature moves.
5. Ring Psychology and Storytelling: Building Drama in the Ring
- Strategic Offense: Sloane Jacobs is not just a physical competitor; she also excels in the psychological aspects of wrestling. Her matches often involve a well-thought-out strategy, where she targets specific body parts to weaken her opponent and build toward a decisive finish. Jacobs’ ability to tell a story through her in-ring work is a key aspect of her appeal, as fans are drawn into the narrative she creates in each match.
- Character Development: Jacobs’ in-ring character is that of a determined and resilient competitor. She exudes confidence and a sense of purpose in the ring, which adds depth to her matches. Whether she’s playing the role of an underdog or a dominant force, Jacobs’ character work enhances the overall presentation of her performances.
Legacy and Impact on the Wrestling Industry
Despite her young age, Sloane Jacobs has already made significant strides in the wrestling industry. Her unique blend of martial arts and wrestling techniques, combined with her dedication and passion for the sport, has set her apart as a rising star. Jacobs represents the next generation of wrestlers who are redefining the standards of women’s wrestling.