Arianna Grace, born Bianca Carelli on January 20, 1996, is an American professional wrestler currently signed to WWE, performing on the NXT brand. She is the daughter of WWE Hall of Famer Santino Marella, adding a layer of legacy and expectation to her career.
Prior to pursuing a career in professional wrestling, Carelli excelled in academics. She graduated magna cum laude from Western University in London, Ontario, with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology. She then pursued a Juris Doctor degree at the University of Windsor, demonstrating a commitment to intellectual pursuits alongside her athletic ambitions. This academic background sets her apart from many in the wrestling world, potentially offering a unique perspective and approach to the business.
Carelli’s journey into professional wrestling began in 2021. She quickly honed her skills, wrestling on the independent circuit under the name Bianca Carelli before signing with WWE in October 2021. Her signing was met with considerable interest, largely due to her familial connection to Santino Marella, a popular and comedic figure in WWE history.
In April 2022, she was given the ring name Arianna Grace and debuted on NXT, competing in the NXT Women’s Breakout Tournament. Although she was eliminated in the first round, the tournament provided valuable exposure and a platform to showcase her developing wrestling skills. Her early appearances in NXT often featured her embracing a “pageant queen” persona, highlighting her charisma and ability to connect with the audience. This character allowed her to display a certain level of arrogance and entitlement, creating opportunities for compelling storylines and interactions with other wrestlers.
Arianna Grace’s in-ring style is still evolving, but she demonstrates a willingness to learn and improve. She incorporates elements of her father’s comedic timing and signature moves, paying homage to his legacy while forging her own identity. She has displayed a strong understanding of ring psychology, using her character to generate heat and draw reactions from the crowd. While her move set is still developing, she has shown glimpses of athleticism and potential for high-impact maneuvers.
Unfortunately, her momentum was hampered by a knee injury requiring surgery in late 2023. This has sidelined her from in-ring competition for an extended period. However, she has remained active on social media, engaging with fans and providing updates on her recovery. Her resilience and determination to return to the ring suggest a bright future for Arianna Grace once she is fully healed and ready to compete again. The wrestling world awaits her return, eager to see how she further develops her skills and carves out her own path in the competitive world of WWE.