Taya Valkyrie Talks Music, Wrestling Reinvention, and AEW Women’s Division

AEW and ROH star Taya Valkyrie is no stranger to reinvention. From championship wins across the globe to starring on reality television and now stepping into music, Taya continues to push her creative boundaries while inspiring fans inside and outside of the ring. In a candid conversation with Women’s Wrestling Talk, she opened up about her latest projects, personal transformation, and her vision for women’s wrestling in AEW.

For Taya, music has become an exciting new chapter. She revealed how her creative journey began with songwriter and producer Jeremy Thurber, also known as Bleach X. “We started last year around this time when I first began talking with my friend Jeremy. He’s an incredible performer who’s written for some huge artists. I said, ‘Hey buddy, do you want to do a Christmas song?’ And that’s generally how things happen in my life—I’m very blessed to have friends who are so creative across all fronts.” Taya also shared her dream collaborations, mentioning AEW’s Leila Grey and longtime friend Swerve Strickland, hinting at future crossovers between wrestling and music.

She spoke fondly of her community in West Hollywood, describing them as a “chosen family” who support one another’s creative endeavors. “We’re all hustling every day to make our dreams come true and show up for each other. Whether it’s a performance in West Hollywood or a music video release party, we’re there. Recently, Kayla Becker [formerly Kayla Braxton] and I were in David Hernandez’s music video, which is coming out soon.”

Fans of “Johnny Loves Taya” will be happy to hear season two is on its way. Taya explained that despite busy schedules, filming is underway. “The premise starts with us moving from the Valley to our new home in Hollywood and all the things that happen in that process. It’s very funny, fully scripted, and this season includes lots of cameos—from Kayla, the MXM guys, RuPaul’s Drag Race, Scarlett Bowen, and more.”

Taya didn’t shy away from discussing the personal challenges she has faced, from harsh online criticism to body image struggles. “People were saying horrible things about me—criticizing my looks, my wrestling, my career. I really had to change my mindset and stop giving a f***. That shift changed everything—how I worked out, how I ate, how I slept. Even John said, ‘You wouldn’t have any friends if you spoke to them the way you speak to yourself.’ That hit me. Over the last two years, I’ve lost 50 pounds and really feel like myself again.”

When it comes to wrestling, Taya praised AEW’s fresh approach to the industry. “AEW to me is the disruptor. They came in and shook the cage, making people see wrestling from a different perspective. They’re grittier, not afraid to take risks, and Tony [Khan] isn’t afraid to disrupt. That keeps wrestling fun and interesting.” On the women’s division specifically, Taya is encouraged by the growth of multi-women matches. “I love how we’re now seeing more multi-women’s matches—3-on-3s, 8-woman tags—and creating more time for women to shine on TV. The proof is there: we work hard, we look amazing, and we’ll make the most of any opportunity.”

Be sure to check out Taya’s new music single, “Morning After”:

Watch the full interview with Taya Valkyrie on Women’s Wrestling Talk here:

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