Xelina (FKA Zelina Vega) Talks Being Able To Bring WWE US Title To 9/11 Memorial

Today marks the 25-year anniversary of September 11, 2001, a national tragedy that resulted in thousands of lives lost and thousands more grieving. For former WWE star Xelina (aka Zelina Vega), the event hit especially close to home as her father, an analyst working on the 103rd floor of the World Trade Center, was amongst the victims on that fateful day.

On a recent edition of "Busted Open Radio," Xelina looked back on some of her fondest memories of her late father, Michael Trinidad. She also opened about the significance of later taking the WWE Women's United States Championship to the 9/11 Memorial, which honors him and the near 3,000 others killed in the terrorist attacks

"Going from making huge 'Just Bring It' signs to MSG, to my dad dressing like The Rock and doing the People's Eyebrow, to Dwayne and his daughter going and seeing his name, went out of their way to go to the 9/11 memorial and go and spend time and FaceTime me during when they went to go see his name, I'm like, what the hell is life? In what universe does this even happen?" Xelina asked. "But yeah, he was always just someone that was looking out for people, making sure that my brother and I were always happy, joking, and laughing."

"... It's weird because I did get to bring the United States Championship to the 9/11 memorial," she continued. "I was there with you guys actually when this happened, but even in that, I always promised I'm going to bring the world title here."

Xelina captured the WWE Women's US Title on the April 25, 2025 edition of "WWE SmackDown" by defeating Chelsea Green. Her reign went on to span 63 days before coming to an end at the hands of Giulia.

More than two decades removed from the tragic events of September 11, Xelina aims to keep the name and memory of her late father alive. Fortunately, she's had no problem doing so as wrestling fans have honored him, and his daughter, in multiple ways.

"When fans go and take pictures next to his name, that's mind blowing to me," Xelina said. "Or when they make signs with his name on it. That's things that I feel like are also an accomplishment because ultimately I didn't want his memory, his name to die with him. I wanted to continue to bring him with me regardless. I think that's been an important thing for me is just to have him still living through my brother and I ... I know obviously people, they say we can't book based on what happens in people's personal lives. But I think ultimately, whether I want it to be or not, that's my life, that's my story, and that's something that I've had to work to become comfortable with."

At the time of the attacks, Xelina was just 10 years old, with her school classmates and friends unsure of how to approach her afterward. Over time, however, Xelina has embraced her association with it, so much so that many others now feel comfortable opening up to her about their own family losses.

As she continues to carry the weight of her personal loss, Xelina noted that she battles depression, anxiety, and ADHD, as well. Still, she remains intent on being  a "fighter" through it all.

If you use any of the quotes in this article, please credit "Busted Open Radio" with a h/t to Wrestling Inc. for the transcription.