Simone Johnson And Tatyanna Dumas: Love, Wrestling, And A Legacy Beyond The Ring

  • By Rico
  • Jan. 2, 2026, 12:10 p.m.

A Love Story in the WWE Universe

Love is officially in the ring for Dwayne Johnson’s eldest daughter, Simone Johnson. Known in the WWE universe as Ava Raine, Simone has made her romance with fellow NXT wrestler Tatyanna Dumas Instagram official. On December 7, the duo shared a heartfelt video montage on their joint Instagram account, giving fans a peek into their love story. From tender kisses and warm hugs to exciting trips and intimate dinners, the reel was a testament to their bond, carrying the heartfelt caption, “From day one... to everything time can’t erase.”

“Crying, screaming, throwing up. I am so lucky.” – Simone Johnson

Reposting the video to her personal account, Simone added her own emotional note, expressing just how lucky she feels. Though this marks their first official acknowledgment of their relationship, the couple has long hinted at romance through social media, frequently sharing posts filled with public displays of affection.

From Red Carpets to Wrestling Rings

Their connection was also evident during high-profile events, such as the London red carpet premiere of Dwayne Johnson’s biopic 'The Smashing Machine' in September. The couple, alongside Simone’s father, posed together, with Dwayne playfully commenting, “Break out the Teremana ladies!” referencing his popular tequila brand.

Simone’s journey into the world of professional wrestling follows a legacy decades in the making. Signed with WWE in 2020, she became the company’s first-ever fourth-generation superstar, following in the footsteps of her legendary grandfather, Peter Maivia, and father, Rocky Johnson.

Dwayne Johnson and Daughter Ava Raine (Simone Johnson)

Dwayne Johnson and Daughter Ava Raine (Simone Johnson)

Wrestling Paths Converge

Meanwhile, Tatyanna Dumas took a different route to the wrestling world. Before joining WWE in early 2025, she showcased her athletic prowess as a professional basketball player in Australia and competed in athletic TV competitions like Gladiator and Ninja Warrior. Despite their different paths, both women now share the developmental stage of WWE’s NXT, preparing to eventually step onto Monday Night RAW and SmackDown.

A Milestone in Representation

For fans of the family and WWE alike, the pairing feels like a natural fit. Both women embody athleticism, charisma, and a competitive streak, complementing each other both professionally and personally. Their relationship also marks a significant milestone for representation in the wrestling world, adding authenticity to WWE's evolving spotlight on diverse talents.

Dwayne Johnson has often spoken with pride about his daughter’s independent approach to wrestling. During an October podcast appearance on New Heights, he shared how Simone never asked for special favors to enter the organization, instead choosing to blaze her own path. This independent spirit, coupled with her relationship with Dumas, highlights the evolving nature of wrestling’s landscape, both in and out of the ring.

Rico
Author: Rico
Rico

Rico

Rico covers how celebs craft image—on carpets, in airports, and on Stories. He pairs look IDs and styling credits with the mini-narratives driving buzz: relationships, rebrands, and comeback arcs.