Princess of Staten Island
Height: 5 ft 5 in
Age: 36
Retired? NO
Real Name: Leah Van Dale
Net Worth: $1 million (2023)
Tattoos: Several, including a rose on her left thigh and script on her ribs
Carmella is a professional wrestler currently signed to WWE. She is best known for her time on the SmackDown brand, where she became the first Ms. Money in the Bank and later a SmackDown Women's Champion. Carmella is recognized for her athleticism, charisma, and in-ring storytelling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Carmella in WWE?
Carmella is a WWE wrestler and former SmackDown Women's Champion, known for her 'Fabulous' persona and time as a member of the faction 'The IIconics' with Billie Kay and Peyton Royce.
What is Carmella's real name?
Carmella's real name is Leah Van Dale. She is the daughter of professional wrestler Paul Van Dale, who performed in ECW.
When did Carmella debut in WWE?
Carmella debuted in WWE in 2013 as part of the reality competition show 'Tough Enough' and later joined NXT in 2015 before moving to the main roster in 2016.
Has Carmella won any championships in WWE?
Yes, Carmella has won the SmackDown Women's Championship twice and the WWE Women's Tag Team Championship once with Queen Zelina.
What was Carmella's 'Money in the Bank' cash-in?
Carmella won the first-ever Women's Money in the Bank ladder match in 2017 and successfully cashed in her contract on Charlotte Flair to win the SmackDown Women's Championship.
Wrestler Connections:
Carmella's Key Connections in WWE
Carmella, known for her charisma and in-ring prowess, has formed several notable connections throughout her WWE career. Here are five wrestlers she has been significantly linked with:
Enzo Amore
Although not listed in your table, Carmella's most famous association was with Enzo Amore during her early main roster days. They were paired together as a charismatic duo, with Enzo often serving as her hype man.
R-Truth
Carmella had a memorable partnership with R-Truth, forming an entertaining tag team. Their comedic chemistry and unexpected alliance delighted fans, leading to several humorous segments and matches.
Charlotte Flair
Carmella has had intense rivalries with top-tier competitors like Charlotte Flair. Their matches often highlighted Carmella's resilience and ability to compete at the highest level of the women's division.
Asuka
Another significant rivalry for Carmella was with Asuka. Their feuds over championships showcased Carmella's cunning tactics and determination against one of the most skilled opponents in WWE.
Bayley
Carmella has also crossed paths with Bayley, both as an ally and adversary. Their interactions added depth to her character and demonstrated her versatility in different storylines.
Controversial Moments:
Carmella's Controversial Money in the Bank Win (2017)
The Assisted Cash-In
One of Carmella's most controversial moments came at Money in the Bank 2017 when she became the first woman to win the Money in the Bank ladder match. However, her victory was marred by controversy as her ally, James Ellsworth, retrieved the briefcase for her while she was incapacitated. Fans and fellow wrestlers criticized the decision, arguing it undermined the women's division's legitimacy.
Rematch Ordered by Daniel Bryan
The backlash was so intense that then-SmackDown General Manager Daniel Bryan ordered a rematch the following week. Carmella won again, this time without Ellsworth's direct interference, but the controversy lingered over whether the initial victory tainted her accomplishment.
Feud with Asuka and the "Untouchable" Streak (2018)
Cheating to Defeat Asuka
Carmella's feud with Asuka in 2018 sparked controversy when she ended Asuka's undefeated streak at WrestleMania 34. Many fans felt the finish—a distraction by Ellsworth leading to a roll-up pin—was an underwhelming way to end Asuka's historic run. Critics argued it diminished Asuka's credibility while propping up Carmella in an unconvincing manner.
Fan Backlash Over Booking
The decision to have Carmella defeat Asuka, especially via shenanigans, was met with heavy criticism from fans who believed Asuka deserved a more protected loss. The controversy highlighted ongoing debates about WWE's booking of women's matches.
Accusations of Being "Carried" in the Ring
Criticism from Peers and Fans
Throughout her career, Carmella has faced accusations of being "carried" by more experienced opponents, particularly during her early main-roster run. Some fans and critics pointed to her matches with Charlotte Flair and Becky Lynch as examples where her limitations were exposed.
Improvement and Response
Carmella has since improved significantly in the ring, but the early criticism remains a controversial talking point in discussions about her career trajectory. She has addressed these critiques, emphasizing her growth as a performer.
Real-Life Heat with Colleagues
Tension with Peyton Royce
In 2020, reports surfaced of backstage tension between Carmella and Peyton Royce (now Cassie Lee). Royce reportedly expressed frustration over Carmella receiving prominent opportunities while other talented women were underutilized. Though neither confirmed the feud, it fueled discussions about favoritism in WWE.
Social Media Clapbacks
Carmella has occasionally engaged in heated exchanges with critics on social media, further fueling controversy. Her responses to fan negativity have sometimes escalated into public spats, drawing mixed reactions from the wrestling community.
Entering 2025 Wrestling Season
Carmella's Career Overview Entering 2025
Championship Pedigree
By the start of the 2025 season, Carmella had already established herself as a decorated competitor in WWE. She was a former SmackDown Women's Champion and a two-time Money in the Bank winner, showcasing her ability to thrive in high-pressure situations.
Character Evolution
Carmella's persona had evolved significantly by 2025. Initially known for her brash, self-absorbed "Princess of Staten Island" gimmick, she had matured into a more well-rounded character—blending her signature arrogance with newfound resilience and in-ring versatility.
Carmella's Position in the Women's Division
Mid-Card Prominence
Entering 2025, Carmella was a consistent presence in the mid-card of the women's division. While not always in title contention, she remained a reliable performer who could elevate feuds and deliver entertaining matches.
Feuds and Storylines
Carmella was often positioned as a gatekeeper—a veteran who tested rising talent. Her feuds with younger stars helped establish new faces while keeping her relevant in ongoing narratives.
In-Ring Performance and Style
Technical Improvements
By 2025, Carmella had refined her in-ring skills, incorporating more technical elements into her repertoire. While still relying on her agility and speed, she demonstrated improved striking and submission techniques.
Signature Moves
Her finishing moves, such as the "Code of Silence" (modified triangle choke) and the "Super Kick," remained key parts of her arsenal, often serving as decisive tools in high-stakes matches.
Future Prospects for Carmella in 2025
Potential Title Pursuits
With her experience, Carmella was seen as a potential dark-horse contender for secondary titles, such as the Women's Tag Team Championships, especially if paired with the right partner.
Mentorship Role
Given her tenure, Carmella was also positioned to take on a mentorship role backstage, helping guide newer talent while continuing to contribute as a seasoned in-ring performer.
Awards and Honors:
WWE Women's Tag Team Championship:
Won alongside Queen Zelina at WrestleMania Backlash 2021
WWE 24/7 Championship:
Held the title multiple times during its comedic run
WWE Money in the Bank (Women's):
Won the 2017 Women's Money in the Bank ladder match
WWE SmackDown Women's Championship:
Won the title twice - first in 2017 after cashing in Money in the Bank, and again in 2020
Pro Wrestling Illustrated (PWI) Woman of the Year:
Named Woman of the Year in 2017 by Pro Wrestling Illustrated
Pro Wrestling Illustrated (PWI) Female 50:
Ranked #11 in 2017 and #14 in 2018 on PWI's Female 50 list
Net Worth:
Carmella's Net Worth: An Overview
Carmella, whose real name is Leah Van Dale, is a professional wrestler best known for her time in WWE. As of 2023, her estimated net worth is approximately $5 million. This wealth has been accumulated through her wrestling career, endorsements, and other ventures.
Sources of Carmella's Income
WWE Salary
Carmella's primary source of income is her WWE contract. Reports suggest that her annual salary ranges between $250,000 and $500,000, depending on her role and appearances. This includes base pay, bonuses, and pay-per-view earnings.
Merchandise Sales
Like many WWE superstars, Carmella earns a percentage from merchandise sales. Her signature catchphrases and unique persona have made her merchandise popular among fans, contributing to her net worth.
Endorsements and Sponsorships
Carmella has partnered with several brands, leveraging her social media presence for endorsements. These deals, though not publicly disclosed, add a significant amount to her overall earnings.
Other Ventures
Outside wrestling, Carmella has explored opportunities in modeling and acting. She has appeared in magazines and TV shows, further diversifying her income streams.
Carmella's Career Highlights
Carmella debuted in WWE's developmental brand NXT in 2013 before joining the main roster in 2016. Some of her career highlights include:
- Winning the SmackDown Women's Championship (2018)
- Winning the Money in the Bank ladder match (2017)
- Featuring in high-profile storylines with top WWE stars
Carmella's Lifestyle and Expenses
Carmella enjoys a luxurious lifestyle, often showcasing her travels, fashion, and fitness routines on social media. While she spends on high-end fashion and real estate, she also invests in her career and future ventures.
Real Estate
Carmella owns a home in Orlando, Florida, where many WWE stars reside due to its proximity to the Performance Center. The property's value is estimated to be over $1 million.
Personal Branding
She invests in her personal brand, including fitness programs and social media content, ensuring long-term financial stability beyond wrestling.
Future Financial Prospects
Carmella's net worth is expected to grow as she continues her wrestling career and explores opportunities in entertainment and entrepreneurship. Her marketability and fanbase position her well for future success.
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Action Figure of Carmella
