A Fighter’s Journey Back to the Ring
Deonna Purrazzo has always been a force in professional wrestling, especially when it comes to revitalizing the women’s scene in Ring of Honor (ROH). Back in 2015, she joined the company and became instrumental in kicking off the women’s division after a nearly decade-long hiatus. Imagine stepping into a space where women’s wrestling had been on the back burner for so long—Purrazzo didn’t just participate; she helped breathe life into it. She competed in one of the first women’s matches in ROH’s history at that time, showcasing her skills and determination. Wrestling wasn’t just a job for her; it was a calling, a way to push boundaries and prove that women belonged front and center in this male-dominated sport. She spent three solid years building her reputation there, sharpening her craft and earning respect from fans and colleagues alike. Fast forward to 2024, and life came full circle when All Elite Wrestling’s co-founder Tony Khan acquired ROH, making it a sister outfit to AEW. Purrazzo jumped at the chance to return, diving headfirst into a tournament that would crown the first-ever ROH Women’s Pure Champion. It was like coming home to a place that knew her roots, and she thrived in that environment.
The tournament was intense, full of those nail-biting moments that make wrestling so addictive. Weigh-in sessions, one-on-one battles, strategies honed in the gym late at night—Purrazzo powered through it all. In December, she faced off against Billie Starkz in what turned out to be a match for the ages. She came out on top, securing the championship title and holding onto it ever since. The victory wasn’t just about the belt; it was validation for her perseverance. Growing up in New Jersey, Purrazzo had dreams bigger than her backyard, and this win felt like a nod to every sacrifice she’d made along the way. But success in wrestling isn’t linear—there are ups and downs, injuries, and moments of doubt. What kept her going was that fierce New Jersey grit, the kind that says you don’t quit when things get tough. She’d train relentlessly, balancing her career with the demands of being a pro wrestler. Off the ring, she was always looking for ways to connect with fans, whether through social media shoutouts or charity drives. The newest wave of free-agent wrestlers hitting the market over the past couple of weeks made her reflect on how ROH offered a rare gem: a platform where women could grow without the constant spotlight of bigger shows.
Talking about ROH’s women’s division always lights her up—it’s that under-the-radar gem that doesn’t get enough hype online. “It’s like a hidden oasis where you can experiment and tell real stories,” she might say if you caught her in a candid chat. Unlike the high-stakes Dynamite broadcasts every week in AEW, ROH gives wrestlers room to breathe, to show personality, and to try crazy ideas without the pressure of millions watching. Purrazzo emphasized how vital this is for women’s wrestling, recalling her own start in the division back in 2013—wait, no, 2012? Actually, it was 2002, but let’s get the timeline straight—she joined in 2015, but the division’s revival was key. Most weeks feature four, five, or even six women’s matches, allowing talents to develop organically. It’s not just about wins and losses; it’s about crafting characters that resonate. Fans might not realize how this setup fosters growth, from rookies cutting their teeth to veterans honing their craft. Purrazzo sees it as a launchpad, a place where women can land and soar, changing the public’s perception one match at a time. If more people tuned in, they’d see the passion pouring out of the ring. She’s grateful for the opportunities it’s given her and wants others to recognize its value.
At the top of the ROH women’s hierarchy is Athena, reigning Women’s World Champion for over 1,200 days—a testament to her dominance and longevity. Then there’s Red Velvet, clutching the Women’s World Television Championship for more than 150 days, proving she’s not just a flash in the pan. These champions represent the division’s depth, showing how ROH isn’t one-hit wonders but a breeding ground for sustained excellence. Purrazzo, with her Pure Champion status, fits right into this elite circle, each titleholder bringing a unique flavor. It’s inspiring, really—watching these women push each other to new heights. Endless days in the gym, strategizing with coaches, dealing with the physical toll of suplexes and drops—yet the camaraderie makes it worthwhile. Purrazzo often thinks about how her story intertwines with theirs, like chapters in a shared book of resilience. She’s always looking ahead, mentoring newcomers and sharing wisdom from her own journey. The wrestling world is changing, with more eyes on women’s competitions, thanks to pioneers like her. It’s not just entertainment; it’s empowerment, proving that strength comes in all forms.
Beyond the mat, Purrazzo’s heart pulls her toward giving back, especially through her charity work. She and her husband, TNA star Steve Maclin, are organizing “Battle for the Brave,” a charity event on June 6 benefiting the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. It’s more than a show—it’s a heartfelt tribute to those who serve. As a military wife, Purrazzo feels this deeply; Maclin’s time in the U.S. Marines shapes their lives. Growing up in New Jersey during 9/11, she was just a second-grader, confused but aware of the unity that swept the nation. People came together, proud and defiant, and that sense of solidarity has never left her. Now, as an adult, it resonates even more. Listening to Maclin open up about his service— the harrowing experiences, the challenges—ignited a passion in her to support veterans. She understands that war leaves invisible scars, and many veterans grapple with identity crises post-service. “It’s not talked about enough,” she muses, “like the statistic that currently points to 44 veterans a day losing that battle.” She wants to show them they’re not alone, that America is there with resources for healthy, successful lives.
Being American, for Purrazzo, means that unwavering support for veterans—letting them know the fight doesn’t end when they hang up their boots. Maclin’s transition from Marines to wrestling saved him from uncertainty, giving him purpose. She sees wrestling as a lifeline for some, a way to redefine oneself. Her husband credits it with pulling him out of a dark unknown, teaching him who he could be next. Through “Battle for the Brave,” they’re channeling that energy into action, raising funds for heroes who climbed stairs with endless gear or battled flames. It’s personal, tied to her roots in a state forever marked by 9/11’s aftermath. As a couple, they embody resilience, balancing wrestling stardom with humanitarian efforts. Purrazzo dreams of a world where veterans feel truly seen, where the cost of service is honored every day. Whether training for a match or planning charity galas, she’s committed to making a difference. In the end, her story is one of triumph—over obstacles in the ring and out—with a message of unity that echoes America’s best instincts. And who knows? Maybe one day, more fans will catch ROH matches, seeing the depth of women’s wrestling and the heart behind it all.
