Sol Ruca: Hannah Montana, Green Flags & Becoming IC Champion

Summary

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The Nikki & Brie Show

Episode: Sol Ruca: Hannah Montana, Green Flags & Becoming IC Champion
Date: June 22, 2026
Host: Nikki & Brie Garcia
Guest: Sol Ruca (WWE Intercontinental Champion)

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Episode Overview

This episode welcomes WWE’s current Intercontinental Champion, Sol Ruca, for an uplifting and fun conversation. Nikki and Brie take listeners through Sol's journey from her California roots, family influences, athletic career, and rapid rise on WWE's main roster. The conversation covers everything from beach life and pop culture obsessions to personal style, nerves in the wrestling world, affirmations, and what it takes to thrive as a new champion.

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

Sol’s Childhood & Family Background

[02:41] - [04:29]

• Grew up in Ontario, California; could snowboard and surf within an hour.
• Older brother (her best friend); grew up as a tomboy, competitive, surrounded by hockey/gymnastics.
• Dad is a musician (played with ska bands and Fishbone), mom was hands-on stay-at-home.
• Spent family time at concerts and festivals; happy family life with diverse activities.

“I had an older brother, so he was like my best friend… I was very, very competitive… Dad is a musician, so we also spent a lot of time going to concerts and festivals.”
— Sol Ruca [02:41]

Pop Culture Obsessions

[04:29] - [05:55]

• Big fan of Hannah Montana, surf/beach culture, skateboarding, snowboarding, and video games (Mortal Kombat, Guitar Hero, Call of Duty).
• Embraces the “double life” aspect of Hannah Montana, seeing parallels with her own life.

“I wanted the wig, I wanted all of that. I wanted the double life. And I honestly feel like I’m somewhat living that now, which is kind of cool.”
— Sol Ruca [04:43]

Musical Influences & Gwen Stefani Connection

[08:49] - [11:25]

• Inspired by Gwen Stefani, admires her California style (especially checkered prints and Vans).
• Feels grateful Gwen was a fashion and music icon for California girls.
• Reveals her dad’s ska band once collaborated with Gwen Stefani.

“I always looked up to her because I thought she was just like, so badass and cool, and definitely strayed away from the beauty standards.”
— Sol Ruca [09:05]

Sol’s Personal Style in WWE

[11:06] - [12:15]

• Sol proudly incorporates her love for Vans (mixing/matching at recent WWE events), California skate vibes, and laidback Cali-girl energy into her on-screen persona.
• Nikki and Brie praise her authenticity and unique female presence on WWE TV.

“That’s what I like about your style: it’s so effortlessly cool… you give me all the vibes… I love that.”
— Brie [11:29]

Growing Up Backstage at Concerts

[14:49] - [16:07]

• backstage at concerts was “normal” as a kid, but she appreciated it more as she got older (notably during her dad’s Coachella performances).

“Once I got older, I realized, wow, this is really cool… growing up, anywhere we would go, people would recognize him—which now is full circle, because I feel like that’s happening to me.”
— Sol Ruca [15:04]

Sol’s Eclectic Playlist

[16:08] - [18:00]

• Recent favorites: Backseat Lovers (“Kill Big Girl”), Long Beach Dub All Stars, Gwen Stefani (esp. “Just a Girl” and “Spiderwebs”), Slightly Stupid, Sublime, classic rock like AC/DC and Queen, 90s grunge (Nirvana), and playlists inspired by SoCal radio (KROQ).

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Athletic & Academic Journey

[18:04] - [20:46]

• Track & field in high school, but shifted to acrobatics and tumbling at University of Oregon (received a scholarship despite never having done it).
• Couldn’t continue gymnastics due to injury—acrobatics was a new but natural fit.
• Notes the similarity in embracing unfamiliar athletic opportunities as her wrestling journey.

“I ended up, you know, doing a sport in college and getting a scholarship for a sport that I never played… now I’m a pro athlete in a sport I also never did.”
— Sol Ruca [19:14]

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Fearlessness, Self-Trust, and Taking Risks

[20:02] - [21:20]

• Trust in her training and coaches enables her to try new things despite nerves.
• Confidence comes from previous athletic experience; believes life’s journey prepares us for new opportunities.

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Hawaii Years & Social Media

[22:03] - [24:02]

• Moved to Hawaii with a friend during COVID, fell in love with island life—hiking, free diving, boating almost every day.
• Took up social media full-time (how WWE discovered her) and personal training.
• Hawaii represents her “dream retirement” destination.

“I would love to move there and just have like a little farm with chickens, and then own a coffee shop.”
— Sol Ruca [23:56]

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WWE Recruitment Story

[24:02] - [25:16]

• WWE scouted her via Instagram, initially thought it was fake.
• Didn’t grow up watching wrestling—thought WWE was like UFC.
• Tryout was grueling, “one of the hardest things I’ve ever done,” but exciting to be among athletes and seasoned indie wrestlers.

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NXT Training & Transition

[28:10] - [33:36]

• Felt out of her depth with wrestling basics at first (others had indie experience; she was new).
• Early promos were a struggle, but coaches praised her rapid improvement, leading to a contract.
• “Thrown in the deep end,” her learning curve was steep but ultimately rewarding.
• Notes that being a “fish out of water” actually helped her progress and debut faster.

“One of the days we had a drill, and I was just not picking it up… I ended up crying because I was just, like, frustrated… but they talked to me and I got back in there.”
— Sol Ruca [31:09]

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Main Roster Debut Experience

[34:08] - [37:01]

• Found out backstage from Shawn Michaels and the head NXT writer that she’d be debuting on Raw after WrestleMania.
• Expected a small role, but participated in a match and a live promo with Liv Morgan—overwhelming but prepared thanks to NXT experience.

“When the music hits, I have to go out there, so I have no choice but to just do my best.”
— Sol Ruca [37:00]

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Affirmations & Mindset Practices

[37:01] - [37:35]

• Uses affirmations daily to boost confidence and manage nerves.
• Nikki & Brie affirm the importance of self-talk, especially for women in high-pressure environments.

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Memorable Quotes & Moments

• “I watch Hannah Montana at least once a year, just like, all the way through.”
  — Sol Ruca [07:49]

• “Affirmations are so, so strong. They feed our brain and our soul.”
  — Brie [37:10]

• “My favorite moment so far was winning the IC title in Turin, Italy. The crowd was absolutely incredible… the pictures look so sick. The ring was literally vibrating because of how loud they were.”
  — Sol Ruca [37:41] / [39:13]

• “I am not the body, I am not the mind. I am not its thoughts. I am the soul. I am free. I am free… Every thought is a wave, but I am the ocean.”
  — Sol Ruca (her favorite affirmation / mantra) [49:19]

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Major Milestones & Reflections

On Winning the Intercontinental Championship

[37:41] - [39:38]

• Iconic moment winning the title in Italy, experiencing overwhelming crowd reaction and pyrotechnics.
• Emotional family reaction watching her victory from home—parents and grandma proud supporters.

On Growth, Resilience, and Being a Trailblazer

• Never wrestled before WWE; openness to new experiences, learning quickly, and trusting in her abilities led to an accelerated and successful rise.

On Giving Back & Inspiring Others

• Grateful for affirmations, for her parents, and wants her journey to inspire girls to confidently “stick out” and embrace their backgrounds and passions.

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“60 Seconds with Sol” Rapid Fire Game

[42:45] - [48:26]
Quick fire Q&A to get to know Sol’s preferences and quirks:

• Beach day or pool day: Beach day
• Coffee or smoothie: Coffee
• Concert or sporting event: Concert
• Pizza or tacos: Tacos
• Sneakers or barefoot: Sneakers—especially checkered Vans
• Night in or night out: Night in
• Book or podcast: Book (“Radical Acceptance” is a favorite)
• Dating green flag: Guy walks on street side for her
• Dating red flag: Talks negatively about friends behind their backs
• Favorite curse word: (She likes a strong one—censored for the show!)
• Best meal of the week: Deep fried sushi burrito from Sus Hi Station
• Current TV obsession: “New Girl” and “Alice in Borderlands”

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Dream Match

[48:26] - [49:06]

• Already faced her long-time dream opponent IYO, but now wants a one-on-one with Charlotte Flair.

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Closing Affirmation & Inspiration

[49:19] - [50:11]

Sol shares her most meaningful affirmation, which helps her manage anxiety and stay grounded:

“I am not the body, I am not the mind. I am not its thoughts. I am the soul. I am free. The body is a temple, not a prison. The mind is a tool, not a weapon. My thoughts are not all, are not mine at all. I am the soul. I am free. Every thought is a wave, but I am the ocean. I will be still. I will be calm.”
— Sol Ruca [49:19]

Nikki and Brie reflect on the power of stillness, Cali girl ocean imagery, and the importance of women harnessing inner strength.

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Noteworthy Timestamps

• 02:41 — Sol’s childhood: sports, music, tomboy roots
• 04:29 — Hannah Montana & growing up beachy/athletic
• 09:05 — Gwen Stefani as an icon; the checkered slip-on era
• 14:49 — Backstage stories and early exposure to music
• 19:14 — Acrobatics and unexpected athletic paths
• 24:02 — WWE recruitment and tryout story
• 28:10 — First NXT promo: nerves and rapid learning
• 34:08 — Raw debut: getting the call-up backstage
• 37:41 — Italy IC title win & family reaction
• 42:45 — Rapid-fire “60 Seconds with Sol”
• 49:19 — Closing affirmation and mantra

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Final Thoughts

Sol Ruca’s story is about fearless reinvention, embracing new opportunities, and bringing authentic selfhood—Cali cool, athletic background, and family inspiration—into her wrestling career. Her gratitude, openness about nerves and mental strategies, and genuine warmth make her a standout both in the ring and on the airwaves.

Find Sol on Instagram: @SoulRvca
Find her on TikTok: @SolSurfer

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Transcript

[Soul Ruka]

You mind if we make one more stop before heading back? I need to run a target. 100%. Let's RTT. You thinking of stuff for the dorm? Yeah, my mom gave me some good tips on must have essentials. We for sure need under bed storage, handheld iron for wrinkles, maybe even a mini keurig for Mondays. Am I right? All right, bet. Because I was already thinking about keeping my clothes looking fresh at college, so you better be sharing that. Of course, man. Whatever I get on this run is yours too, twin. But for real, let's go before they close. Find everything you need for college at Target. Whether you're a festival girly or catching local live music, Dove thinks the only thing you should worry about is getting a good view of the stage. With the new Dove alcohol free Whole body Deodorant, you won't have to worry about your deodorant irritating your skin. It's packed with nourishing serum and free from irritating alcohol. Plus, you'll still enjoy 72 hour odor protection and irresistible fragrances for your pits, chest, thighs and more. Get the new alcohol free Dove Whole body deal on Amazon or at Walmart today.

[Nikki]

Okay, everyone. Today's guest is proof that some people are just built different. She's an incredible athlete. Ridiculously cool. I know this because I'm in the locker room. The current WWE Intercontinental Champion and such. Someone who has quickly become a fan favorite thanks to athleticism, energy, and one of the most jaw dropping finishers in all of wrestling. From growing up in California to competing at the University of Oregon and now making waves on WWE's main roster, her journey has been anything but ordinary. Today we're talking beach life, music life outside of the ring and everything that got her to this moment. Please welcome the one and only Soul Ruka to the Nikki and Bri Show.

[Bri]

Yeah.

[Soul Ruka]

Hey.

[Bri]

Nice to see you. I know we were telling you earlier, but one, you look absolutely gorgeous and the title just matches you so perfect.

[Nikki]

I know.

[Soul Ruka]

No, it's like it's meant to be.

[Bri]

It really is.

[Nikki]

Really.

[Bri]

I just. I always love that feeling when you get a championship, you're like, this is. This was just it. This is meant to be made for me. Yeah. Made for you. It definitely is.

[Nikki]

Oh my gosh, it is. So. So we want to take it all the way back with you. Nikki and I were like, we need to know about Sol's childhood. Yeah, like, we would love to know. Just, you know, you grew up in Ontario, California. And what was. Like, how was it growing up in Ontario? Like, what was Childhood, like for you?

[Soul Ruka]

My childhood was honestly great. I mean, I lived in a really cool area where I could go drive an hour and go snowboarding and then drive an hour to go surfing. And I did that a few times in high school. But yeah, growing up I had older brother, so him and I. He was like my best friend, so I would like always hang out with him and like all of his hockey friends. So definitely grew up more of like a tomboy. And I was very, very competitive. He did ice hockey and then I did gymnastics. So spent a lot of time in ice rinks and in gymnastics gyms, going back and forth. And then dad is a musician, so we also spent a lot of time going to concerts and festivals. My mom's a stay at home mom, so she was very hands on with my brother and I. Yeah, we were honestly just a really happy family. And I, I loved growing up where I grew up. I thought it was a great location and had a lot to offer for me and my brother.

[Nikki]

I love that. Now would you snowboard at. Is it Big Bear? Was that the.

[Soul Ruka]

Yeah, go to Big Bear. We go to Mountain High mostly, but yeah, those are like the, the two big ones for sure.

[Nikki]

Oh my gosh. Ontario is great. I actually, I, I love Ontario because I remember we do wrestling shows there. But also I always think of it like kind of on your way. Would we go San Diego, stop in Ontario before Palm Springs?

[Bri]

Yes.

[Soul Ruka]

Yeah.

[Nikki]

Or like. Yeah, yeah. They actually have a good airport there too.

[Soul Ruka]

If I remember correct. They have an international airport that's like probably like five, six minutes from my house.

[Nikki]

Okay. And then what's the closest beach to there? Is it Laguna?

[Soul Ruka]

Probably like Huntington or Newport. But yeah, we spent a lot of time in Laguna as well. We have a family friend who is also my chiropractor that lives in Emerald Bay, which is like a private beach in Laguna. And oh my God, it's. That's like my, my goal in life is the one way to get there, but yeah.

[Nikki]

Oh, you will.

[Soul Ruka]

Gorgeous.

[Nikki]

I love that. And what were things you were obsessed with as a kid?

[Soul Ruka]

I was obsessed with Hannah Montana, that's for sure.

[Nikki]

Oh my God.

[Bri]

I love. Now I'm a lot older than you, but I was obsessed with Hannah.

[Nikki]

You loved all those show adult.

[Bri]

I know, yeah, same.

[Soul Ruka]

I love it. I wanted the wig. I wanted, I wanted all of that. I wanted the double life. And I honestly feel like I'm somewhat living that now, which is kind of cool.

[Bri]

Majorly.

[Soul Ruka]

Definitely.

[Bri]

I totally feel that.

[Soul Ruka]

Yeah, I always loved like the beach and surfing. I didn't grow up surfing. I started when I was around, like, 13, I think. So it was pretty late in that with surfing, you kind of have to start young to be good at it. So I'm not great, but I. I still enjoy it. But I loved everything beachy. Yeah. And then just like, outdoor sports. Skateboarding, snowboarding. I loved video games. Me and my brother in the summer would, like, go swim in the pool and then come back and play video games, like, all day. So definitely love doing that as well.

[Bri]

What was, like, your favorite video games?

[Soul Ruka]

Mortal Kombat is my number one for sure. I also spent a lot of time playing Call of Duty and Guitar Hero. Oh, my God, I want her here to come back so bad.

[Bri]

Yes. That was so epic.

[Nikki]

Yeah.

[Bri]

I can't believe it went away.

[Nikki]

Well, you know, we interviewed these three sisters on the Nikki and Brie show during Super Bowl. They are a famous band out of Mexico. They learned how to play guitar because A Guitar Hero.

[Bri]

Yeah.

[Soul Ruka]

Oh, my God.

[Nikki]

That's how they got into music. I was like, dang.

[Soul Ruka]

I know.

[Nikki]

Yeah. I was like, there's actually. I take my kids to this trampoline park in Santa Rosa and they have, like, a Guitar Hero arcade game.

[Soul Ruka]

Oh, yeah.

[Nikki]

Oh, my gosh. Like, kids don't even know.

[Bri]

Were you so excited about that Hannah Montana reunion? That Miley?

[Nikki]

Oh, my God, yes.

[Soul Ruka]

I wanted to go so bad, but I think we were, like, traveling or something. But. Oh, my God, that's so cool. She's like. She's incredible.

[Bri]

She's so incredible. So did. Were you not a Wizards of Waverly Place fan?

[Soul Ruka]

Oh, yeah, definitely.

[Bri]

Okay. That one was epic, too. Those were like, my two shows. I know as an adult, and I know you were probably a child, but that's okay. But it gave me good dreams and

[Nikki]

made me feel safe. But tell Saul what you would do coming off the road. What was like your after Monday night route? Like, Tuesdays, you'd go get your pasta,

[Bri]

and then like, I get my past. So I was in San Diego, and at this time, I was being in Little Italy. I was a PB girl for a while, but then I moved to Little Italy. You know, just had to feel a little elevated.

[Nikki]

Yeah.

[Bri]

Close to the clubs. But I would get off and I would always get the same pasta. Was a Felipes.

[Nikki]

I think Felipes.

[Soul Ruka]

Wait, what was the pasta? What's your go to?

[Bri]

Okay, so then. But this is like when I wanted to carb up, like always. The days after TV are like, massive cheat days for Me. So it would be Penny pasta with shrimp and grilled chicken all chopped up marinara sauce. Oh, it was.

[Nikki]

You do marinara with garlic and chicken. I would think it was just, I mean, grilled. Yeah.

[Bri]

No, and it was a spicy marinara. So spicy. Shrimp and chicken with Penny.

[Nikki]

Oh.

[Bri]

I would almost eat the whole thing. And, you know, it was so good. And then I would go watch my Hannah Montana and Wizard Wizards of Waverly Plain.

[Nikki]

I was always like, that was like my thing. Yeah, yeah. And I was like, that was her thing. I was always like, you're kind of old to watch those shows.

[Bri]

I'm like, no, I'm not.

[Soul Ruka]

I think I watch. I watch Hannah Montana at least once a year. Just like, all the way through.

[Bri]

Okay. See?

[Nikki]

Yeah.

[Bri]

See?

[Nikki]

Well, I have to say, you know,

[Bri]

it's such a comfort show. That's exactly how I feel. And I'll still go look at, like, Billy Ray's, like, Instagram, because, like, I just wanna. I think of him still as, like, the dad from Hannah Montana, not like Billy Ray. Even though I remember when his single came out Achy break your heart. When I was a little girl, I was like, who's this? But I like this jam. But I actually think he has a

[Nikki]

new album dropping or like a new song.

[Bri]

You know who he's with, right?

[Nikki]

Yeah. Elizabeth Hurley. That's his new girl.

[Bri]

You haven't seen their photos. They're cute. Oh, you gotta go.

[Nikki]

Leather cue.

[Bri]

Yeah.

[Nikki]

But you know what? I need to get my daughter into Hannah Montana because she's right now into iCarly. And it's weird.

[Soul Ruka]

That's a good one.

[Nikki]

She loves iCarly. She loves, like, the relationship with the boy. Like, it makes her laugh a lot.

[Bri]

She'll be obsessed with Hannah Montana.

[Nikki]

That's what I think. And she loves singing, like, okay, here's another person.

[Bri]

So I feel like that you probably looked up to, but that I just freaked out that your dad got to do stuff with her is Gwen Stefani.

[Soul Ruka]

Oh, my God, yes. How she's like such an inspiration to me. I mean, I feel like most of my gear kind of gravitates towards that, like, style.

[Bri]

Yeah.

[Soul Ruka]

Especially like the checkered print. Like, it's such a California thing to me because I grew up wearing checkered vans. Like, I have pictures, like, baby pictures of me and like, these little slip on checkered vans. And I feel like that was, like, really, like, her thing. And Yeah, I just, like, always looked up to her because I thought she was just like, so, like, badass and like, Cool. And, like, definitely strayed away from, like, the beauty standards and, like, what people expected of her. And I thought that was just so sick.

[Nikki]

So true. And how lucky were. Were we that she was the one who represented California? Like, I feel like we were so lucky. That was like, our, like, fashion icon, but also, like, our girl we got to all, like, look up to. Because she was a bad. She still is a badass.

[Bri]

Still is a badass. And still represents Cali the best. Because I went and saw her at the Spear and I just. That show, you guys.

[Nikki]

I know. Me too. Because I was supposed to go and I just. I needed to go train.

[Bri]

And they hid all the eras. They literally opened up with sca. So when I see that your dad. So four listeners. Her soul's father, as you heard, is a musician and is or was. He's still a musician, right?

[Soul Ruka]

Yeah, yeah, he still is.

[Bri]

And he got to be part of the. A popular SCA band called the Skeletons collaborated with Gwen. So I brought this up. But at her show at the Sphere, no doubts, you guys. They open up with their old school.

[Nikki]

Scott. Oh, my God.

[Bri]

And the dome starts putting photos of them from that era everywhere. Video, like, black, white. I was like. And they open up with, like, the orange and, you know, like, all the trees. I want to fly. Like, I am telling you, if for us Cali people. And when you've been raised with no Doubt and Gwen Stefani, it was the most epic show ever.

[Nikki]

Just, like, rubbing salt into the wounds for Soul. No.

[Bri]

Well, I'm sorry.

[Nikki]

Maybe she'll do a private show for us. So. So you know what I loved? In the Fatal Four way that you just had on smackdown, not only was it a killer match, but I loved how you did two different vans.

[Soul Ruka]

Yeah. Yeah.

[Nikki]

I don't know if you probably maybe do that a lot, but I was like. I was like, oh, that looks sick.

[Soul Ruka]

Yeah, I've been trying to, like, because I have so many pairs of bands now, because I try and get bands that, like, match my year. So I just have so many options at this point where I'm like, I might as well, like, mix and match, like, if it. If it goes. So. No, but that kind of dabble in that.

[Nikki]

It looked great. Yeah, I loved it. Like, I was like, that's actually. That was sick.

[Bri]

Totally. Well, that's what I like about your style is one. I know it's you, but it's so effortlessly cool. And especially, like, being a Cali girl. Like, you give me all the vibes, and I just love that even how you walk out, how you do your promos, you chat like she's just.

[Nikki]

You're chill.

[Bri]

Yeah.

[Nikki]

And what I do love is that I feel like we haven't had a female character and really it's you. But even just for us to have it graced on WWE television, I've really never seen anyone like that.

[Soul Ruka]

Yeah.

[Nikki]

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[Bri]

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[Nikki]

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[Nikki]

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[Bri]

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[Nikki]

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[Bri]

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[Nikki]

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[Nikki]

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[Bri]

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[Nikki]

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[Bri]

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[Nikki]

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[Bri]

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[Nikki]

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[Bri]

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[Nikki]

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[Bri]

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[Nikki]

But, you know, talking about Gwen Stefani really quick and your dad, I do want to know, how was it growing up, going to concerts and being backstage with your dad? Like, did you understand, like, this is badass, or it was kind of normal to you?

[Soul Ruka]

I feel like when I was really young, it was just, like, kind of normal. But as I got older and as I got to, like. He played in Coachella with. He was in the band the Fishbone, so he played at Coachella with them. And we got, like, artist passes, and I was like. I was in, like, high school, I think, maybe, like, 16 or something like that. So, like, going out there with, like, my best friend and just being able to, like, go backstage and, like, see a bunch of these, like, celebrities and just, like, have that experience, it was like, oh, like, this is so sick. So I think once I got older, I, like, realized, like, wow, this is, like, really cool. And growing up, anywhere we would go, people would, like, recognize him, which is, like, now, like, full circle, because I feel like that's. That's what's happening to me, which is really cool. But, yeah, it was so much fun. And I know, like, when I was younger, I kind of was, like, over it because we'd have to stay, like, the whole show to, like, oh, my God. And stuff. And, you know, being a young kid, you're just like, oh, I want to go home. Like, I'm tired. But, yeah, once I grew up and, like, got a little older and had a bit more of appreciation for. For, like, the whole, you know, show and the whole. Everything that goes into it, it was. Yeah, it was really cool.

[Bri]

Oh, my gosh.

[Nikki]

That's amazing. So what's, like, your. On your playlist, your top five songs?

[Soul Ruka]

Oh, top five songs. Oh, my God.

[Nikki]

That's so hard.

[Bri]

I know.

[Nikki]

Or, like, five songs, maybe, like, as a late. You've been listening to, like, okay, or you're gonna go work out and you're like, okay, like, here we go.

[Bri]

Or I could see her, like, skateboarding, like, what's on the longboard? What's on the long board? Ride.

[Soul Ruka]

I've been super into backseat lovers recently. They have a song called Kill Big Girl, which is really, really good. I've been listening to that on. On repeat. Long Beach Dub All Stars. I've been super into as well. I can't think of, like, one song off the top of my head. I kind of, like, go through just, like, artists and, like, Press Shuffle, so been into them. I always have Gwen Stefani on there. Of course. Just a Girl is one of my favorites.

[Nikki]

Oh, my gosh.

[Soul Ruka]

Spider Webs as well. I mean, I love, like, Slightly Stupid and, like, Sublime. Of course. I also love, like, more like, classic rock and like, indie rock as well. I love, like, acdc, Queen, all that stuff. Yeah.

[Bri]

Any music choices from the 90s grunge era? Like, you Nirvana fan? Oh, yeah. Yeah.

[Soul Ruka]

Oh, yeah. I'm so bad at, like, naming songs off the top of my head, but, yeah, I have, like, a bunch of playlists. I don't know if. Did you guys ever listen to kroc, like, the radio station?

[Nikki]

Oh, yes.

[Soul Ruka]

So I have a playlist, like, based on that, and I think that's, like, my go to workout playlist.

[Nikki]

And it's just, like, amazing.

[Soul Ruka]

All of that kind of music that they would play.

[Nikki]

Yeah, KROC is great.

[Soul Ruka]

Yeah.

[Bri]

Well, it's so wild when you think about, like, back in that day. That's how you listen to music. It was, like, all the different radio stations, and I know we'd have our

[Nikki]

boombox and we'd, like, try to record the song, like.

[Bri]

Yeah, I kind of miss those days. I mean, I do like having my music right in hand.

[Nikki]

I like when everything was a challenge. Yeah.

[Soul Ruka]

Work for it.

[Bri]

Yeah, for it. I like. See, I like that. Appreciate. Okay.

[Nikki]

Speaking of working for things, I know

[Bri]

I say we step into the University of Oregon. Yeah, that's the Ducks, right?

[Soul Ruka]

Yes.

[Bri]

Okay. Our cousin went there.

[Soul Ruka]

Yeah.

[Bri]

Yeah. He's older than us, but he played football there.

[Nikki]

He got a scholarship, and he grew up in Huntington Beach.

[Soul Ruka]

Oh, that's so cool.

[Bri]

Right?

[Nikki]

So he was a Dex. I mean, that's a great college.

[Soul Ruka]

Yeah, it was. It was a blast.

[Bri]

So you did track and field in high school, and then did you compete in track and field as well at University of Oregon?

[Soul Ruka]

No. So I was. I was trying to do a double sport, but with my acrobatics and tumbling schedule, it was just not possible. It is pretty similar to, to wrestling. You don't really have an off season. We do in some ways. Like we get to go home for, for summer, but we have like a list of things that we have to come back with like skill wise. So it is up to us to, to keep up with training and keep up. They give us like workouts and stuff we do outside of it. But yeah, I did track and field for two years in high school. I did get some scholarship offers for that. But I mean, I loved gymnastics and that was kind of my passion and I couldn't continue gymnastics because of some injuries that I had. So acrobatics and tumbling was kind of a new and up and cominging sport and it still kind of is, but I got an opportunity to, you know, get a scholarship and I went to obviously the University of Oregon and did that, which was really cool. And it's like, it's such a weird thing to look back on because I ended up, you know, doing a sport in, in college and getting a scholarship for a sport that I like, never played. Because acro is somewhat similar to gymnastics, but it is like very, very different. You're tumbling on basketball court with like a few inch pad and like you're having to learn tosses and pyramids and synchronized tumbling and all this stuff. But then now it's like I'm a professional athlete for a sport I also never did. So it is really cool to see like, how my life is like planned out up until now. And it seems to be a common thread of just, you know, getting these opportunities and just going balls to the wall and figuring it out.

[Nikki]

Yeah, you definitely do that now. I mean, you must have a fearless attitude when you're trying. Like, I don't. How is the mindset when it's like, okay, we need to learn this new skill or that because you're guys are doing flips and backflips and it's just wild. Like you just. Do you ever get nervous?

[Soul Ruka]

Yeah, I'm gonna definitely get nervous, but I feel like I trust myself and I trust that, like I have, you know, good training up until this point and I, yeah, like, trust my body awareness and trust that, you know, my coaches, when they're pushing me to do a new skill or learn something new, that, you know, they know that I'm ready. They've seen what I've done and they know that, you know, yeah, like, I'm ready for this and that kind of Gives me the. The confidence to be like, okay, like, I got this. Like, yeah, we're just gonna try it and see what happens.

[Bri]

I love that. See? And, you know, I just love the journey of life because I believe so much that things are in our path and they. They lead us somewhere, and sometimes we don't know where we're going, and then when we get there, we're like, this is what I was meant to do. You know, here you come to wwe, and everything that you did in the past brought you to this moment to be an incredible WWE Superstar. And, you know, I. I just love when people have that journey. And, you know, like, you said, like, look at where it brought me. You know, I. I would love to see you, by the way, do the Toy Story challenge. Have you seen this?

[Soul Ruka]

Yes, I have.

[Nikki]

What's the Toy Story Challenge?

[Bri]

So a lot of the gymnasts are doing it, but with her background, she would crush it where they are. They're like a toy, and they're pushing each other over. But how you can stay like a toy the whole time?

[Nikki]

Oh, really?

[Soul Ruka]

Yeah, you have to, like, stay, like, stiff.

[Bri]

Stiff. Yeah, yeah.

[Nikki]

Okay.

[Bri]

Okay. We need to do. Someone needs to be able to see in the ring, like, London and, like. Yeah. And have, like, push you around, and you stay like a Toy Story, so. You know what I mean? You would crush it. Like, you came, like, kind of off the ribs. You know what I mean? You.

[Soul Ruka]

Yeah, yeah.

[Bri]

Doing it away. Oh, my God. You would. It would be, like, viral.

[Nikki]

That is.

[Bri]

Yeah, I. I would love that.

[Nikki]

So after college, you moved to Hawaii.

[Soul Ruka]

Yes.

[Nikki]

Oh, my gosh. How was that? Hawaii? How did I say?

[Soul Ruka]

I don't know. Hawaii. Oahu. Yeah, it was. Oh, my God, it was amazing. I love it there so much. I moved there, so I was there for, like, two years, but broken up because I moved there with one of my teammates as soon as Covid hit, because she transferred from Hawaii Pacific to there. So she's like, I'm gonna go back to Hawaii. And I was like, I'm gonna come with you, and we'll just wait. This end up being there for a lot longer than we thought we were going to be. Then I moved back to Oregon to finish out my senior year, and then I moved back after that, and I was doing social media full time, which is how WWE found me. And then I was doing online personal training as well. But, yeah, it was so much fun, like, cliff diving all the time. Like, going free diving with a bunch of different sea animals, sea life and stuff, and, like, had so many friends with boats and. And the hikes were just absolutely incredible. I went on, like, a hike at least once a day, and I just. I miss it so much, but I fear I just. I can't go back or I might not get back on my flight.

[Bri]

Yeah. Honestly, I hear that so much from people.

[Nikki]

So do you see yourself, like, eventually going back there? Like, that felt like that could be home?

[Soul Ruka]

I don't know. I feel like it just depends on where my career takes me. I mean, I obviously would love to be in the WWE for as long as possible, but, you know, living in Hawaii is kind of not possible with just the travel and stuff. I definitely would love to move back to California when I was still, like, in the wwe, but, you know, maybe once I'm retired, I would love to go back to Hawaii. For sure.

[Bri]

Yeah.

[Nikki]

I feel like I was going to say Hawaii is like a great retirement place.

[Soul Ruka]

Yeah.

[Nikki]

Like, you just slow, slow mornings and even days. I feel like they're all every and

[Bri]

even service, which was great. I remember when I went to wedding there, they're just like, it's slow servicing. Yeah. Don't need a rush.

[Soul Ruka]

Yeah. I would love to move there and just have, like, a little farm with some, like, chickens and stuff, and then own a coffee shop.

[Nikki]

Oh, my gosh.

[Bri]

Totally. That's perfect. Retirement. So, Seoul, when WWE reached out to you, what were your thoughts? Like? Those first thoughts?

[Soul Ruka]

So when they reached out to me, it was when they first had started the recruitment Instagram page, so it didn't have a lot of followers. So at first I was like, this isn't real. There's no way. I also, like, I didn't grow up watching wrestling, so when I saw it, I thought it was like, ufc. And I was like, I can't fight. They're going to fight. I don't know if this is for me. I then eventually, like, did my research and, like, looked into it and watched a few matches, and I was like, oh, like, I could totally do this. Like, this is sick. So got the tryout and I was like, you know what? If I make it, I make it. If not, it's a hell of a story to, like, tell my friends that I, you know, got to try out for the wwe. And yeah, I did the tryout, and it was probably one of the hardest things I've ever done in my entire life, but it was also so fun and it was so cool to. To, like, learn all these things and just be in this whole different environment in this whole different world, especially being in there with other athletes and then also other people that were on the, the independents. So I got like two perspectives of like, what was going on. Half of us were like, where are we? What are we doing? And the other half, we're just so passionate about it that it was really, really cool to see.

[Nikki]

Oh, that's awesome. I love that. Yeah, me too.

[Bri]

I feel like we've been in the era for a very long time about online shopping, right? And sometimes it's just really hard to remember all of the passwords and the emails of all the different sites that you shop on. Sometimes I'm like, how many times have I been back here and how can I not remember my password? So picture this. It's late at night and you're scrolling through your feeds when all of a sudden you see it, that one product that you've been looking for. So as you're filling in your address, you realize you don't have your card anywhere near you. We've all been guilty of this, right? That's when you see it. That purple shop button that has all of your information saved, making checking out as simple as a simple tap on your screen. Shopify's iconic purple shop pay button is used by millions of businesses around the world. And it's why Shopify has the best, best converting checkout on the planet look. As a business owner and entrepreneur, I feel Shopify gives us the opportunity to really know our customers and our consumers so well. The iconic purple shop pay button is definitely my favorite feature. It's helped our consumer checkout easier and when checkouts are easier, as you all know, that's more sales. It's time to turn those what ifs into sales with Shopify today. Sign up for your $1 per month trial today at shopify.com twins. Go to shopify.com twins that's shopify.com twins.

[Nikki]

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[Bri]

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[Nikki]

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[Nikki]

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[Bri]

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[Nikki]

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[Bri]

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[Nikki]

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[Bri]

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[Nikki]

And so when you, so you moved to NXT and was it just kind

[Bri]

of like, well, wait, I want to know the feeling. So when you get the call and you're like, hey, you made it. You, we're gonna give you a contract. What was that? Like?

[Soul Ruka]

I was just like, oh, my God. Like, this is crazy. Like, I honestly did not think I was gonna make it because we have like the, the promo portions of the tryout. I knew once we were doing the in ring stuff, like, I got the hang of it pretty quickly just with my gymnastics background. We were doing roles and, and bumps came pretty, pretty easily. But yeah, it was the, the promo aspect. The first day, it was just an introduction promo. So I've never really, I didn't really know what that meant. And I think I went like second or third or something like that. And the, the first girl that went, she was on the indie, so she had this whole character and this whole elaborate story and it was like, had a punchy outline and it was so cool. And then like, I go up there and I'm like, hey, guys, like, my name is Kyx. I'm from California. I went to school here and I did this and yeah, that's it. I just like sat back down. I was like, oh, my God, like, I don't know what I'm doing. But then we had. That was the first promo segment or exercise we had. And then I think at the end of the tryout, we had another one where they gave us a prompt and it was like, cut a promo on a current champion. I believe I, I cut one on Becky.

[Nikki]

I'm pretty sure which is circle. Yeah, right.

[Soul Ruka]

So when I got the call, they were like, you know, we're really impressed with your in ring work. And from the first day to the last day, you improved so much in your promo that we're, you know, gonna offer you a contract. And I was like, oh, my God. I was just like in shock, to be honest. And then, yeah, just all like the, the thoughts rushing in about, you know, what does this mean about. Because I was living in Hawaii, like, having to move there. And, like, I think we were supposed to move within a few. Few months. But, I mean, I was. I was ready for it. I think I was in the perfect time in my life where I didn't really have anything, like, solid where I was living and just, like, within, like, jobs and stuff. With social media, it's not guaranteed that you're gonna get paid every month because you're on these, like, few month contracts or a few week contracts. So I was excited to like, have something solidified and just. Just, you know, have a. Another, like, outlet for my athleticism and just to be an athlete again, because I was really missing that once I graduated.

[Nikki]

Oh, my gosh. I love that. And Orlando, was it an easy move for you? Because I feel like Orlando, I mean, doesn't.

[Bri]

I don't know. I feel like when you're used to West Coast, east coast is so.

[Nikki]

So how was it moving to Orlando?

[Soul Ruka]

It wasn't the best. I mean, yeah, I. I was just happy that there was the beach, so I wasn't too upset about it. I definitely don'. Here. I'm not super into just the humidity and stuff.

[Nikki]

Yeah, humidity gets us.

[Soul Ruka]

I mean, compared to living in Oregon, it's much better. I just. I can't do the cold, I can't do the rainy. So it's not the best place I've lived, but it's not the worst.

[Nikki]

Yeah, that's true. And then how was it be going into nxt? Because it's crazy for me now to see just how gorgeous developmental is, and there's so many of you guys. Like, did you just. When you first walked in, were you just like, all right, it's like, back being my first day in college, and here we go.

[Soul Ruka]

Yeah, somewhat. But it was also, like, absolutely terrifying just because I was the only girl that was signed in my class that didn't have prior wrestling experience. Like, everyone else was on the Indies for a little bit, and I got thrown into a class with girls who had already been here for a few months that were like, the. The previous signed class. So just being thrown into that situation, we would, like, run through drills and stuff, and I'd say still be like, what is going on? Like, what is the front bump? What is this bump? What is the shoulder roll? Like, and just being thrown into that. I remember, like, one of the. One of the days we had a drill and I was just, like, not picking it up, and then Coach Bloom walked in. And I was just like, oh, no. Like, I'm. He's gonna fire me. Something's gonna happen. Like, I'm not doing well. And I ended up, like, crying because I was just, like, frustrated. I was like, I don't know what's going on. But he talked to me. It's okay. Like, you know, just learning. Like, just get back in there. We'll walk you through it. And then ended up being fine, but it was just, like, really, really stressful, you know, being in there with people that know what's going on and are, like, super passionate about wrestling and, like, know all the history. And then there's me. That's, like. Just feels really far behind in that sense. But I think it ultimately helped me learn really, really quickly. And I think that's a part of the reason why I debuted so fast, was just because I was thrown into the deep end and, you know, I had my. My ups and downs, but I figured out.

[Bri]

I agree. I. You know, I get that because when we were in developmental, I remember when we first started, it was, like, two months into it, they would just do matches on the fly, and we were like, wait, what? And they're like, just go in there. You're the heel. You're the baby face. Tell a story, and do a match for 6 minutes, 8 minutes, 10 minutes. And I felt like Bri and I

[Nikki]

got called up earlier.

[Bri]

I mean, it was, like, maybe a year or whatever, but it was. Yeah, but it was because we were just thrown into it. And I think sometimes that's great because you just have a certain fire to it, but you just have to learn it.

[Nikki]

And you're going through. You're almost, like, using your survival instinct, which is what you need in wrestling. You want your instincts that, you know, helps you get through a match selling, you know, just showing different emotions. So I do think that that helps. You don't overthink anything because you have no time. Yeah.

[Bri]

You're just.

[Nikki]

You're truly reacting. Yeah.

[Soul Ruka]

Yeah.

[Nikki]

Just really hit me so I could just make it.

[Soul Ruka]

I don't give a shit.

[Bri]

Do it.

[Soul Ruka]

Yeah.

[Nikki]

Yeah.

[Soul Ruka]

So I used to always say that, like, when I first started, like, I just need them to actually hit me so that I remember what to sell.

[Bri]

Yeah, exactly.

[Soul Ruka]

All the stuff that's going on.

[Bri]

Right, right. I'm even still kind of like that because I want to make it look a certain way. But, yeah, I want to feel it so I could, like, make it even better. And that's.

[Nikki]

I never give a shit if someone's stiff I'm like, I don't care here.

[Bri]

Yeah. I'm like, it makes it more real. It does.

[Nikki]

Feels good. We need that sometimes, and we could handle it. We can.

[Bri]

Yeah, exactly.

[Nikki]

I want to know then how you felt when you got the call that, like, hey, you're going to be debuting The Raw after WrestleMania. What was that? Like?

[Soul Ruka]

That was. Yeah, that was crazy. Like, I was. I was in Vegas for, like, WWE World and some, like, meet and greets and some media stuff, and I was backstage after my world match and Russo, the head writer of nxt, had texted me like, hey, like, stay back after your match. Like, I want to talk to you about you and Zaria's match on nxt. I was like, okay. So I was like, just hanging out, and then him and Shawn Michaels, like, pulled me into a room, kicked everyone out, and then Sean sat on one side, I sat on the other side. And then Russo sat, like off to the side and just like pulled out his phone. And then he was like, talking to me about what. What the plans were and that I was getting called up and that I was going to be on Raw. And I was like, oh, my God, this is insane. I started crying. It was like. It was a whole thing. It was really, really cool. It was really, like, nice to have that conversation with Sean and him like, thanking me for the past few years and all that. Yeah, I didn't know exactly what I was going to be doing on Raw, so I was like, oh, it's going to be like a backstage or like a crowd shot because I've done some of those in the past on Smackdown and whatnot. But yeah, then I think like the night before, they had given me somewhat of a rundown, like, hey, there's gonna be a promo segment and like an in ring promo segment and a match. I was like, okay, so, like, we're really doing this right now. Crazy. Like, I was expecting, like something small, but yeah, it was really, you know, again, kind of thrown into the deep end. But I think NXT definitely prepared me for this. Like, thank God I had a lot of in ring promos leading up to this because if not, I would have been absolutely terrified, especially being in there with someone like Liv Morgan, who's absolutely incredible on the mic and is so, like, confident out there. Yeah, I was definitely prepared and I think that match even was like, really, really great. I remember. Wow. Like, I really just did that. That's crazy.

[Bri]

Yeah. Yeah. I honestly, that match was so amazing. It was been one of almost my favorite live matches, but I was, like, sitting back there, I'm like, this is an incredible match.

[Nikki]

So good. And the promo was great, too.

[Bri]

Yeah, all of it.

[Nikki]

And you really don't show. Like, you couldn't tell you were nervous backstage. Like, you're really composed, and you do, like. And is that how you channel, like, your nerves in a way? Like, you stay very chill and, like, stoic in a way?

[Soul Ruka]

Yeah, I kind of, like, I definitely do get nervous, but I. I don't allow myself to outwardly, like, show that I'm nervous or, like, dwell on it too much or think about it too much. Like, again, I kind of just tell myself, like, I got this. I'm here for a reason. Like, they obviously see something in me. They obviously know I'm ready for this, so there's no reason for me to be freaking out about it. Definitely do get nervous. I kind of allow myself to get nervous once I am in guerrilla up until my music hits, but then once the music hits, I have to go out there. So I have no choice but to go out there and just best, you know, do my best. So.

[Nikki]

Yeah.

[Soul Ruka]

Yeah.

[Nikki]

And see affirmations, like, she tells herself. Affirmations. Affirmations. So what we talk about on the Nikki Brie show, how important affirmations are.

[Bri]

Well, and when I just came back from the We Care Spa, that was the one thing they talked about a lot. It's so important daily to tell yourself, I am strong, I am this, whatever you want to be. It's so important that every morning, and they were telling me that you kneel and you say, I am, you know, the things you want to be. And I agree. Affirmations are so, so strong. They feed our brain and our soul.

[Nikki]

They do.

[Bri]

So before we go in, let's. Because I want to play a game with her. I would love to.

[Nikki]

Know what.

[Bri]

I mean. I feel like I already know your favorite moment so far from being on the main roster, but give us that and your favorite moment you had at nxt.

[Nikki]

Okay. Before we get to the title,

[Soul Ruka]

I mean, obviously winning the title was so freaking cool. I think just being in Italy and being in Turin, like, the crowd was absolutely incredible. I think. Yeah. Winning the title, being able to have that moment where, you know, you raise the title up and the. The pyros in the background was just so cool. The pictures look so sick. And then also the promo that following on Monday when the crowd was just going absolutely crazy, like, they posted that video of the camera, like, shaking, and that's, like, legit. Like, I was in the ring. And you can see me say, like, oh, wow. Because the ring was literally like, vibrating because of how loud they were. And it was such a cool moment. And it was cool to have, like, a promo where I was like, uninterrupted and I could kind of just like go out there and like, feel the crowd. Like, Michael Hayes has come up to me and was like, take your time and, like, listen to the crowd. Play with the crowd. Like, that's what they want. And I was like, okay, bet. Because, like, I'm not used to that. In nxt, we kind of get told to obviously acknowledge the crowd and listen to them, but don't feed into it as much because we don't have as much time to do that. So we kind of have to talk over them a lot. So having to break that habit has been a bit different. But I kind of took that moment and, like, since the crowd was so, so hot, it was a lot easier to, you know, kind of just, like, let loose and just, like, enjoy the moment. And I think that was. That was. Was absolutely incredible.

[Nikki]

It really was. And you know what I loved too, is when you came back from Turin as the champion, when you posted your parents watching you did, you could tell they didn't know, right? Anything?

[Soul Ruka]

No, they had no idea. Oh, my.

[Nikki]

It gives me goosebumps. It literally, like, brought tears to my eyes just because. Yeah, it's being moms, senior parents reactions. Oh, my God, they must be so proud.

[Soul Ruka]

Yeah, they're. They're ecstatic. They try and go out to as many matches as they can. And then my grandma, she. She lives next door to us and she is like, she loves it. She wears, like, my merch shirts all the time. She was in that video too.

[Nikki]

Yeah, I was gonna say she was

[Bri]

in the video too.

[Nikki]

I forgot about that. Oh, my gosh.

[Soul Ruka]

Yeah, I have a picture of her when I went home, I think, like two years ago for Christmas. And I was the double champion at the time, so I took both titles home and, like, I have a picture with her, like, holding them, and it's so cute.

[Nikki]

My gosh. Now she gets to hold another title. Look at grand.

[Soul Ruka]

I know.

[Nikki]

Yeah, I love it. Pack your bags, ladies, because Denver is the place for you and the besties to treat yourself.

[Bri]

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[Nikki]

They even have sunrise yoga on the rocks.

[Bri]

I mean, think hundreds of people on their mats with an. An unbeatable view of Denver's famous red rocks.

[Nikki]

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[Bri]

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[Nikki]

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[Bri]

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[Nikki]

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[Bri]

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Oh yes. And they make non dairy which is a plus for me.

[Bri]

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[Bri]

Muscle Milk protein for all. All right, Soul, so we're going to play a quick rapid fire game with you. This is called Six 60 Seconds with Soul questions to help us get to know you better. So no overthinking. Just be quick and have fun. Okay. Beach day or pool day?

[Soul Ruka]

Beach day.

[Bri]

Coffee or smoothie?

[Soul Ruka]

Coffee.

[Bri]

Sunrise or sunset?

[Soul Ruka]

Oh, sunset.

[Bri]

Concert or sporting event?

[Soul Ruka]

Concert for sure.

[Bri]

Texting or FaceTime?

[Soul Ruka]

O I'm gonna say FaceTime.

[Bri]

Yeah. All about the FaceTime. Pizza or tacos?

[Soul Ruka]

Tacos.

[Nikki]

Yeah. Cal. I don't know why I thought California. California. Ch, we're so Mexican.

[Soul Ruka]

Food is just the best.

[Bri]

It's the best. Especially SoCal. I'll admit nor cow's a little rough up here, but SoCal

[Nikki]

and we nail it with our salsa too. Salsa like, yeah, we have the best salsa.

[Soul Ruka]

Yeah.

[Bri]

Okay. Sneakers or barefoot?

[Soul Ruka]

Oh. Oh, my God. I'm gonna say sneakers.

[Nikki]

All right.

[Bri]

I really.

[Soul Ruka]

Both. But I. I love my checkered man.

[Bri]

So do you ever do the barefoot sneakers?

[Soul Ruka]

I don't have any barefoot sneakers, but I've looked into them. I've heard they're supposed to be great for you, but I just have.

[Bri]

They're incredible.

[Nikki]

Yeah.

[Soul Ruka]

Do you have something?

[Bri]

I just. I just got into them and I'm already obsessed. I love them.

[Nikki]

Yeah.

[Bri]

Night in or night out?

[Soul Ruka]

Night in.

[Bri]

Okay. Book or podcast?

[Soul Ruka]

Book.

[Nikki]

I love that.

[Bri]

You have a favorite book.

[Soul Ruka]

Oh, I don't. I have no idea. Maybe Radical Acceptance. That's one of. One of my favorites, I think.

[Bri]

I love that.

[Nikki]

I like that title.

[Bri]

Sushi or burgers?

[Soul Ruka]

Sushi.

[Bri]

Yeah. I love that. I'm. There's nothing like sushi. It's so good. Okay. And then these ones. Just a few short answer ones.

[Nikki]

And then I have a question after these.

[Bri]

One dating green flag and one red flag.

[Soul Ruka]

Oh, okay. A green flag. I'm gonna say when, like, you're walking on the street with someone, with a. With a guy, and they, like, make you walk on the inside and instead of, like, closest to the street, it's like something so simple, but it's just like. It's so, like, cute and, like, thoughtful and. Yeah. I don't know. I love that.

[Nikki]

My husband does that to me all the time. And it's a good reason to this day so much to me.

[Soul Ruka]

Yeah.

[Nikki]

Okay.

[Bri]

I put a red flag.

[Soul Ruka]

Red flag. I feel like there's a lot.

[Nikki]

Yeah.

[Soul Ruka]

Especially now I'm gonna say it's just how they, like, talk about other people, especially their friends. Like, if they're like, crap talking people, like, behind their back, it's just like, ew. Like, what are you saying about me? When you're in front of, like, other people? If you're, like, comfortable saying that about them in front of me, it's like, I don't know about that.

[Nikki]

Yeah, that's a good red flag.

[Bri]

I like that. Favorite curse word and why.

[Soul Ruka]

Favorite curse word.

[Bri]

Yeah.

[Soul Ruka]

Oh, my God.

[Nikki]

I have, like, three favorite ones.

[Bri]

Really?

[Soul Ruka]

I think I'm trying to think of what I say, like, the most. Yeah, probably. I feel like that's just. That's a fun one.

[Bri]

Great one.

[Nikki]

Strong, but can be fun. Yeah.

[Bri]

Can also be sexy. It has a lot of range.

[Nikki]

A lot of range.

[Bri]

Best meal you've had this week?

[Soul Ruka]

Oh, this week. What have I had? Oh, there's this place called. I don't know if this is how you pronounce it, but it's called. I call it Sus High Station. It's like a, a sushi place or like a poke bowl place. I go there at least like once a week. Probably maybe like twice a week. It's so good. It's open super late. So especially in NXT tea after TV days and like you get home and you forget to eat. Catering, like they're always open, so it always like get susai and they have these deep fried sushi burritos. Oh my God, they're amazing.

[Bri]

That sounds delicious. Yeah.

[Nikki]

Next time we're in Orlando, we're going,

[Bri]

yes, deep fried sushi well burritos. Wow. Current TV obsession.

[Nikki]

Ooh.

[Soul Ruka]

Something that I always like is a. As a comfort show is New Girl. But I recently started rewatching Alice in Borderlands. It's like a Korean show and it's very, very good. It's like kind of like squid games in a way where these like people are stuck in this like alternate reality or some sort of situation that they're like trying to figure out and they have, they're like forced to play these games and once they like pass these games, they have like a three day visa. So they have to keep passing these games or they get, get killed by this like laser beam that shoots them in the sky. It sounds crazy, but it's really, really good.

[Nikki]

Check that one out.

[Bri]

I was thinking you were gonna say off campus. I mean that's been my.

[Soul Ruka]

No, I haven't seen that. Actually.

[Bri]

I think would like someone said like

[Soul Ruka]

the meet and greet I just had that I like reminded them of someone or like asked me about it. I was like, I have no idea

[Bri]

what you're talking about, but look into that. Trust me.

[Nikki]

For sure.

[Bri]

And then last one.

[Nikki]

Well, and then I have one.

[Bri]

Okay. Something simple that brings you joy.

[Soul Ruka]

Oh, a good coffee. I love coffee. I have, I got an espresso machine I think last year. And it's like the favorite part of my day is just making coffee and making a little latte in the morning and just like my cats, just like hanging out with my cats. I'm drinking coffee. It's like, it's the best.

[Nikki]

It really is. I mean, gosh, the stuff, smell of coffee, the whole experience, it's just unreal. Okay, last one is dream match. Especially now that you're the champ.

[Soul Ruka]

Well, my dream match was IO for a really long time and I luckily had a match against her, which is really cool and I would love to have many, many more with her. But I think now that I've had my match with I.O. i've. I really want to have a singles match with Charlotte Flair. We've had multi person matches where we've been in the ring together and have had like a few moments together, but we haven't had that like one on one. And I think that's like my next. My next goal. Yeah.

[Nikki]

Actually would love to see that. That'd be a good, good matchup.

[Bri]

Be a great matchup.

[Nikki]

Yeah. All right. So we always end our episodes with a little inspiration. Affirmation. Can you leave our listeners with a quote or a mantra you live by?

[Soul Ruka]

Oh, yeah. I actually have this book that I kind of go through sometimes just like a bunch of affirmations that I typically just flip through random pages and then read them. And I'm like, okay, this is the affirmation for today. So this one is affirmation and prayer for anxiety. It says, I am not the body, I am not the mind. I am not its thoughts. I am the soul. I am free. I am free. The body is a temple, not a prison. The mind is a tool, not a weapon. My thoughts are not all, are not mine at all. I am the soul. I am free. I am free. When the sea of the mind becomes buffered by the little waves of thoughts, fears and worries remind me that I am the ocean. I am bigger than my troubles. I am too vast to lose myself over petty mental obstacles that stand in the way of my peace. Every thought is a wave, but I am the ocean. I will be still. I will be calm. I will be.

[Nikki]

Oh, my God.

[Bri]

Amen.

[Nikki]

Yes.

[Bri]

That was beautiful.

[Nikki]

I mean, I do feel like that released a lot of anxiety.

[Bri]

Well, I mean, this is very powerful.

[Nikki]

That is a mantra.

[Bri]

It is. You know, I was this place I was at in the desert this past weekend in Palm Springs. It. It was funny because they were. It just those. Those affirmations. That mantra reminded me of it and of the still part of the moon. And they were talking about how the moon represents women so much in the sense sun. The sun is the masculine. Yes. And then the moon. Because we so much women, we just. We sit still and we give that glow. And they were going deep into that. And for some reason, a lot of that, what you just read reminded me of that.

[Nikki]

And when I think as Cali girls too, there's something. And I'm not biased, but with our ocean, I'm just. I don't know, there's. I've always. Anytime I've needed to Just center myself like going to beaches like either Encinitas or Mission Bay or anything. And you sit and just hearing those waves. Yeah. Looking out. I don't know, it's. It really is. So I love that you're your character name Soul because you're such a beautiful, sweet soul and I really feel like you embody just everything from see just knowing you backstage and then you out in the ring, I think are the WWE audience is so lucky to have someone like you and we're lucky to have you as a champ.

[Soul Ruka]

So.

[Bri]

Yes. And you're. You're our mom's favorite right now.

[Nikki]

Oh, you are literally our mom's favorite.

[Bri]

Yes.

[Nikki]

And oh my God, you non stop. Yesterday I had lunch with her. She's like, oh my gosh, you're gonna interview Soul tomorrow.

[Bri]

Yeah.

[Nikki]

You'll have to listen. Hey mom, you know we will tell

[Bri]

her you said hi, she'll love that.

[Nikki]

But thank you so much for coming on the Nikki and Bri show and we are really looking forward to your run as champ. So it's been great so far. So we can't wait to see what else you do. And for all of you who are listening, you can find videos of today's episode on all our social media platforms and Nikki and Bri Show, Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, also you can see today's episode on our YouTube channel. You can check us out on SiriusXM Stars 109 and we do have a hotline that you can reach us at 833GARCIA too.

[Bri]

Yes. And also make sure to check out Soul on Instagram as well. Tune in to Monday night Raw and see see this fighting champion kick butt.

[Soul Ruka]

Yeah.

[Bri]

All right, until next time.

[Nikki]

Yeah. And so what's your Instagram and Tik Tok?

[Soul Ruka]

Instagram is at Soul rvca and then my Tik Tok is Soul Surfer. S O L Surfer. So yeah, be sure to follow me.

[Nikki]

Perfect. All right everyone, you guys have a good week.

[Soul Ruka]

Bye. Thank you.

[Bri]

Bye.

[Soul Ruka]

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[Nikki]

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[Bri]

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[Nikki]

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