Lyra Valkyria Vows To 'Redefine' What It Means To Be NXT Women's Champion

It began with eight, but now only two women remain in the pursuit to crown the next "WWE NXT" Women's Champion. After two rounds of stiff competition, Tiffany Stratton and Lyra Valkyria will soon battle in the finals of the "NXT" Women's Championship tournament, which culminates later today at "NXT" Battleground in Lowell, Massachusetts.

Ahead of their title collision, Valkyria made a big promise to herself and the WWE Universe. "Tonight means everything. Tonight I redefine what it means to be the NXT Womens Champion. #WitnessTheRise," she tweeted. If Valkyria wins tonight, she will become the first Irish-born talent to hold the "NXT" Women's Championship. Finn Balor, a County Wicklow native, accomplished this feat in the men's division when he won his first "NXT" Championship in July 2015. At this moment, though, no Irish women have yet to claim the "NXT Women's Championship. Valkyria, of course, has a chance to change that.

Valkryia struck a deal to join WWE in early 2020 under the name of Aoife Valkyrie. Upon her arrival, Valkyria was assigned to the "NXT UK" brand, where she quickly climbed her way up the ranks. Valkyria's final "NXT UK" match took place in August 2021, where she battled, and eventually defeated, Jinny in a No Disqualification match. Unfortunately, Valkyrie's victory came at the expense of her knee, which became injured during the bout. She remained out of action until she traveled across the pond to make her "NXT" debut on December 13, 2022.

Less than six months after her arrival to the United States, Valkyria receives the opportunity to capture her first major championship in professional wrestling. While Valkyria appears confident heading into the title match, the betting odds continue to favor her opponent, Tiffany Stratton.