NXT standout talks Level Up reps, main roster pacing, and the Cinnemoji story
Summary
– Sol Ruca explains how she learned about her Saturday Night’s Main Event match with Bayley
– Ruca details how her gymnastics background helped create the Sol Snatcher finisher
– She revisits being the Cinnemoji and discusses guidance from coaches at the PC
Sol Ruca continues to rise as one of NXT’s most talked-about athletes, and her momentum is carrying into a major weekend. Ahead of Saturday Night’s Main Event, Ruca spoke about landing a spot on the card the same night John Cena closes out his in-ring career.
Ruca said she first got a text telling her she was needed for the event and assumed it might be something minor. The reality hit once plans formed around a backstage segment involving The Miz and Bayley, revealing that she would be working Bayley on a loaded show. Ruca described the moment as exciting and said she stays ready because opportunities can come with little notice.
When asked about influences since starting, Ruca pointed to coaches she regularly leans on for advice and match study. She discussed the importance of having someone to ask questions and break down details, noting that the bond built over time has made that feedback even more meaningful.
Ruca also reflected on how important WWE Level Up was during her early development. She credited the show for giving her valuable reps in front of the NXT crowd without the same pressure as the main live broadcasts. Ruca said working a range of opponents helped her learn faster, recover from mistakes, and build confidence before becoming a regular part of NXT television.
She explained that main roster appearances come with a different rhythm than NXT. Ruca said Raw and SmackDown often allow bigger moments to breathe, with pacing and timing built around crowd reactions and established stars. She noted that adapting to that style is one of the biggest pieces of feedback talent receives when moving between brands.
One of the most unexpected parts of the interview was Ruca’s story about being the Cinnemoji. She said the opportunity came when she was new to the business and happened to be available for the role. Ruca recalled how difficult it was to see inside the costume and how the size made moving through the arena tricky, but called it a fun experience that fans still bring up.
Ruca’s Sol Snatcher finisher remains a signature talking point, and she shared how it came together. She said she wanted something tied directly to her background that few others could replicate, describing how a gymnastics motion from bar work translated into her now catching opponents instead of a high bar. Ruca named one of her favorite versions as the brutal-looking variation she hit on the outside at Deadline, adding that trying new ways to execute it is always nerve-wracking but rewarding when it lands.
She also spoke about being asked to attempt ideas that sound impossible, saying there have been moments where coaches and producers float concepts, and she has to decide if they can be done safely. Ruca said those situations helped her realize her athletic skill set is rare even within wrestling.
Ruca noted that Iron Survivor matches are demanding but feel rewarding once finished, describing them as a platform for newer names to prove they belong. She added that working in various environments, including public appearances, has been beneficial for growth and adaptation.
Ruca closed by saying she hopes to cross paths with John Cena during the weekend, calling him an icon and expressing appreciation for the opportunities he has helped create for younger talent. She acknowledged that the chaos of a major show can make those moments hard to come by, but said she would welcome the opportunity to express her gratitude.
