Xia Li: Bio
As the first Chinese woman to ever compete in a WWE ring, Xia Li is no stranger to breaking down barriers. Recruited to the WWE Performance Center in January 2017, after she had impressed talent scouts at a tryout in Shanghai, Li made her debut mere months later, competing in the inaugural Mae Young Classic tournament. Although she had precious little experience inside the ring at the time, Li didn’t fold under the immense pressure.
Since then, Li has checked off one career milestone after another, from competing in the second-ever Women’s Royal Rumble Match to becoming a Superstar to watch in NXT. Her quick ascent might not be surprising, considering her extensive martial arts background (Li was a top-flight fighter in the Chinese martial art of wushu when WWE came calling) or her tireless work ethic in the WWE Performance Center.
As if Li wasn't dangerous enough, she was forcefully recruited to Tian Sha alongside Boa, and both competitors took orders from the mysterious Mei Ying. And in the 2021 WWE Draft, Li was selected by SmackDown.
If other kick-happy Superstars are said to have “educated feet,” then Xia Li’s feet should be considered nothing less than Rhodes Scholars. And it’s only a matter of time before the entire WWE Universe takes notice.
During the 2023 WWE Draft, Li was drafted to Raw. 2023 marked a breakout for Li on Monday Night Raw, engaging in a vicious rivalry with Becky Lynch and challenging NXT Women's Champion Lyra Valkyria in a fierce but losing effort.
