Trinity Fatu on finding Naomi – FAULT Magazine Photoshoot and Interview

Fashion Stylist / Creative Director: Mickey Freeman, represented by the Only Agency.

Photographer: JD Barnes 

Hairstylist: Ann Jones 

Make-up artist: Steph Gomez

Stylist assistant: Michael Riordan

In the world of professional wrestling Trinity Fatu, known to fans worldwide as Naomi shines brightly. With her vibrant personality and undeniable talent, she has captivated audiences both in and out of the ring. Currently performing on WWE’s SmackDown brand, Naomi’s journey from a dancer for the Orlando Magic to a two-time SmackDown Women’s Champion is nothing short of inspirational.

We sat down with Naomi to discuss how she prepares for monumental events like WrestleMania, the challenges she faces as a professional wrestler, and how she balances her demanding career with personal life.

How do you prepare yourself mentally and emotionally for big matches or events like WrestleMania?  I get extremely nervous before every performance.  The pressure is heavy when performing live in front of thousands and my mind plays tricks on me hitting me with fear and doubt.  It never goes away but I pray and take some quiet time to talk to myself, reflect, and focus on how blessed I am to do what I do.  That usually snaps me out of it and once the lights and music hit it’s on.  GLOW TIME! 

What would you say was the most challenging aspect of being a professional wrestler?  

Staying healthy and not getting injured.  It can be challenging with all we put our bodied through and having so little recovery time because we perform and travel year round.

How do you respond to people who say practicing femininity is at odds with contact sports like wrestling?

I think the women of WWE proves that theory to be wrong lol.  Women wrestlers have always proven even from the beginning that women can do it all.  We are wives, mothers, business women, very unique performing athletes, and somehow make it look easy.

How do you balance your personal life, including your marriage and parenting, with the demand’s of a rigorous wrestling schedule?  

A strong support system of close knit family and friends. I couldn’t do it without them.  

In your opinion, what changes or advancements would you like to see in the portrayal and representation of women in the wrestling industry?  

I think now is the best the business has ever been for a female wrestler thanks to women over the decades continuously breaking down barriers.  I’ve seen a lot of growth and change in the industry since I started my career in 2009 with the way women are represented and treated in the business!  Slowly but showly women wrestlers have and are continuing to prove that we are draws, deserve the tv time and wages equal to the men.  

As a role model for many young fans, how do you use your platform to advocate for issues that are important to you, both inside and outside the ring?  

I don’t take the platform I have for granted.  Having the visibility and voice to be heard is very powerful. I see it as a responsibility I have to use my voice for the right things, causes I believe in, and stand for.

 When you look back on your journey, what’s been the hardest lesson you’ve had to learn? 

As you grow and evolve through life the same people won’t always be there with you through it all. Learning to accept that can be painful but it’s necessary because it’s a part of life.  

What’s an industry outside of wrestling you’d like to explore? 

Oh that’s an easy questionl.  Broadway Broadway Broadwaaaaaaayyyy! lol Music and modeling also.