The Kiwi Buzzsaw
Height: 5'5" (165 cm)
Age: 36
Retired? NO
Real Name: Cheree Crowley
Net Worth: Unknown
Tattoos: Has several, including floral and script designs on arms and legs.
Dakota Kai is a professional wrestler from New Zealand, currently performing on the global stage. Known for her high-energy style and technical ability, she has competed in various promotions worldwide. Kai has held multiple championships and is recognized for her resilience in the ring.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Dakota Kai in wrestling?
Dakota Kai is a professional wrestler from New Zealand, currently signed to WWE where she performs on the SmackDown brand. She is known for her time in NXT and as a member of the faction Damage CTRL.
What is Dakota Kai's real name?
Dakota Kai's real name is Cheree Crowley.
Has Dakota Kai won any championships in WWE?
Yes, Dakota Kai is a former WWE Women's Tag Team Champion, which she won alongside IYO SKY as part of Damage CTRL.
Is Dakota Kai still part of Damage CTRL?
As of 2024, Dakota Kai remains a key member of Damage CTRL, alongside Bayley and IYO SKY, though faction dynamics in WWE can change frequently.
How did Dakota Kai get into wrestling?
Dakota Kai trained at the WWE Performance Center after being scouted in New Zealand. She made her WWE debut in 2017 and rose to prominence in NXT before moving to the main roster.
Wrestler Connections:
Dakota Kai's Key Wrestling Connections
Dakota Kai, known for her fierce in-ring style and dynamic career, has formed significant alliances and rivalries with several notable wrestlers. Here are some of her most impactful connections.
Bayley
One of Dakota Kai's most prominent partnerships has been with Bayley. Together, they formed a dominant faction, showcasing teamwork and strategy that elevated both their careers on the main roster.
IYO SKY
Dakota also teamed up with IYO SKY as part of the same group, contributing to memorable matches and storylines that highlighted their chemistry and in-ring prowess.
Raquel Rodriguez
Earlier in her NXT tenure, Dakota had a notable feud and brief alliance with Raquel Rodriguez, which included both intense battles and moments of collaboration.
Rhea Ripley
Dakota Kai has faced Rhea Ripley in several competitive matches, particularly during their time in NXT, where their clashes were highlights of the women's division.
Shayna Baszler
Another key rivalry was with Shayna Baszler, as Dakota often found herself opposing the dominant former NXT Women's Champion in hard-hitting contests.
Controversial Moments:
Dakota Kai's Controversial Moments in Wrestling
1. Betraying Tegan Nox in NXT
One of Dakota Kai's most controversial moments came in NXT when she shockingly turned on her best friend, Tegan Nox. After months of portraying an underdog babyface, Kai attacked Nox during a WarGames qualifying match, aligning herself with Shayna Baszler's faction. This betrayal stunned fans and marked a major shift in her character.
2. Joining Toxic Attraction in NXT 2.0
Kai's alignment with Toxic Attraction in 2022 sparked debate among fans. After returning from injury, she joined Mandy Rose's dominant faction, which many saw as an odd fit for her established persona. Critics argued it diluted her individuality, though others praised her adaptability as a performer.
3. Release from WWE in 2023
Dakota Kai's surprise release from WWE in April 2023 caused significant controversy. Despite being part of the successful Damage CTRL faction on the main roster, she was let go due to budget cuts. Fans and fellow wrestlers criticized WWE's decision, citing her talent and potential as a top star.
4. Social Media Feud with Nia Jax
Kai engaged in a heated Twitter exchange with Nia Jax in 2021 after Jax made comments about smaller wrestlers. Kai defended her in-ring style and the abilities of smaller athletes, leading to a public back-and-forth. The incident highlighted ongoing debates about body diversity in wrestling.
5. Allegations of Favoritism in NXT
Some fans accused NXT management of showing favoritism toward Kai during her 2018-2020 push, claiming she received excessive opportunities despite inconsistent win-loss records. Supporters countered that her character work and storytelling justified the screen time.
Entering 2025 Wrestling Season
Dakota Kai's Career Leading Into 2025
WWE Tenure and Injury Comeback
By the start of the 2025 wrestling season, Dakota Kai had re-established herself as a key player in WWE's women's division after overcoming a significant injury in 2023. Her return in late 2024 saw her regain momentum, often aligning with Bayley and IYO SKY as part of the reunited Damage CTRL faction.
Championship Pursuits
Entering 2025, Kai was positioned as a top contender for the WWE Women's Tag Team Championships, frequently teaming with Kairi Sane or another stablemate. Her singles career also remained a focus, with rumors of a potential Women's Championship push later in the year.
Character Evolution
Kai's character had evolved into a more aggressive, opportunistic heel, leveraging her faction's dominance to secure victories. However, subtle teases of tension within Damage CTRL hinted at a possible future betrayal or solo run.
Fan Reception and Legacy
Despite her villainous role, Kai maintained strong fan support due to her in-ring versatility and charisma. Many viewed her as an underrated workhorse of the division, with 2025 potentially being her breakout year as a singles star.
Awards and Honors:
Pro Wrestling Illustrated (PWI) Female 50:
Ranked No. 42 of the top 50 female wrestlers in the PWI Female 50 in 2018
WWE Women's Tag Team Championship:
Won the championship twice, first with Raquel Gonzu00e1lez and later with IYO SKY
NXT Year-End Award for Breakout Star of the Year:
Won in 2020 for her standout performances in NXT
MCW California Women's Championship:
Held the championship during her time on the independent circuit
SHINE Tag Team Championship:
Won the championship with Evie (now known as WWE's Dakota Kai) as part of The Iconic Duo
Net Worth:
Dakota Kai's Net Worth in 2023
As of 2023, Dakota Kai's estimated net worth is approximately $1 million. This figure is derived from her earnings as a professional wrestler, merchandise sales, and other ventures within the wrestling industry.
Sources of Income
Dakota Kai's net worth is primarily built through the following revenue streams:
- WWE Contracts: Her tenure with WWE, including appearances on NXT and the main roster, contributed significantly to her earnings.
- Merchandise Sales: Sales of branded apparel, action figures, and other memorabilia add to her income.
- Independent Circuit: Prior to joining WWE, Kai wrestled in promotions like SHIMMER and PROGRESS, earning additional income.
- Sponsorships & Endorsements: Social media partnerships and brand deals supplement her earnings.
Career Highlights Impacting Net Worth
Key moments in Dakota Kai's career have played a role in boosting her financial standing:
- NXT Success: Her time in NXT, including championship pursuits and high-profile matches, elevated her marketability.
- Main Roster Call-Up: Joining WWE's main roster in 2022 increased her exposure and earning potential.
- Return to WWE (2023): After a brief release, her re-signing with WWE likely came with a renewed contract.
Comparison to Other WWE Superstars
While Dakota Kai's net worth is substantial, it is modest compared to top-tier WWE stars like Becky Lynch or Charlotte Flair, whose net worths exceed $5 million. However, her earnings reflect her status as a rising star in women's wrestling.
Future Earnings Potential
With her in-ring skills and growing fanbase, Dakota Kai's net worth is expected to rise. Potential factors include:
- Championship Wins: Future title reigns could lead to higher payouts.
- Media Appearances: Opportunities in TV, film, or streaming could diversify her income.
- Brand Expansion: Expanding her merchandise or launching a personal brand could further increase earnings.
Watch this video about the wrestler Dakota Kai:
Action Figure of Dakota Kai
