Miriam Torres: The Spanish Wrestler Breaking Barriers in WWE & Beyond

The wrestling world is witnessing a rising star with a unique story – Miriam Torres, who also performs as Sara León. The 28-year-old, born in Aranjuez, Spain, now based in Orlando, Florida, is forging a path in professional wrestling while simultaneously pursuing a career in acting. Her journey, fueled by a passion for martial arts and a willingness to overcome cultural barriers, is gaining attention as wrestling gains mainstream traction thanks to platforms like Netflix showcasing WWE content.

Torres’s path wasn’t straightforward. Balancing acting aspirations with the demanding world of wrestling required dedication, often involving a two-hour commute each way to a gym in Carabanchel for training. Now, she’s a champion in two American independent wrestling companies – Shine Wrestling and GenNext – and is steadily building a reputation as a pioneer for Spanish wrestlers.

Her story began at age 14, sparked by a fascination with wrestling she saw on television. Attending a live show proved transformative. “It seemed like something so special and something so unique that there were a lot of people watching something like that live,” she explained. The combination of martial arts training and a desire to act proved a natural fit. Initially, she concealed her wrestling training from friends “out of shame,” but now embraces her role as a change-maker for Spanish athletes in the sport.

The transition from hobby to profession wasn’t immediate. After debuting in a ring a year after starting training, she continued to focus on acting. However, she quickly realized she had a knack for wrestling. “I realized that I wasn’t bad at it,” she said with a laugh, “and I told myself why not make it compatible.” The physical and mental challenges, coupled with the need to overcome cultural limitations – a noted Spanish shyness or fear – pushed her to seek opportunities beyond Spain.

Her first international experience came with a booking in Germany with Westside Xtreme Wrestling (wXw) during the COVID-19 pandemic. The opportunity arose due to a shortage of female wrestlers, and Torres seized it, despite initial anxieties. This led to further engagements in England and Japan, building connections and gaining valuable experience. Remarkably, she even had the opportunity to train with John Cena, now a Hollywood star, whom she described as the “GOAT” (greatest of all time) in the business.

Torres’s journey highlights the evolving landscape of women’s wrestling. She expressed joy at the progress made, noting the increased respect and opportunities for female performers. “I’m so glad it’s different,” she said, particularly in the United States, where women are now seen as equals in the ring. She acknowledged past issues of hypersexualization and objectification, but emphasized the importance of focusing on skill and athleticism to earn respect.

The support of her partner, Carlos Ruiz, who wrestles as Axiom in WWE, has been invaluable. Having someone who understands the demands and intricacies of the profession provides a unique level of understanding and encouragement. They met in high school and have been together for over a decade.

Torres’s approach to her wrestling persona, Sara León, is rooted in a desire to challenge stereotypes and be recognized for her abilities. “I want to be seen as a fighter and not as a woman who is wrestling,” she explained. She aims to demonstrate that women can be strong, skilled, and captivating performers in their own right.

The daily life of a professional wrestler is surprisingly routine, involving rigorous physical training, acting classes, and careful attention to nutrition. Show weekends are demanding, often requiring travel and performances in quick succession. However, Torres embraces the challenges, viewing each show as an opportunity to showcase her talent and connect with fans.

Torres’s recent participation in Bayley’s ‘Lodestone’ event proved to be a pivotal experience. The event, designed to foster community and provide training opportunities for female wrestlers, brought together talent from around the world. The presence of established stars like John Cena further underscored the event’s significance. Torres described the experience as “surreal” and revitalizing, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and support within the wrestling community.

The concept of “kayfabe” – the illusion of reality within wrestling – is evolving, with increased transparency and behind-the-scenes access through documentaries and social media. Torres, however, maintains a balance between performance and authenticity, sharing her life as both an actress and a wrestler without artificiality. She believes that a strong foundation in wrestling technique is essential for creating a compelling character and connecting with the audience.

As Torres continues to navigate the world of professional wrestling, she remains committed to pushing boundaries, challenging expectations, and inspiring future generations of Spanish wrestlers. Her journey is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and a willingness to embrace the unexpected.