Tatum Paxley: Imperfectly Powerful

On this episode of The Nikki & Brie Show, the twins are joined by the new NXT Women’s Champion Tatum Paxley, fresh off her title win and headed toward an electrifying night at NXT Gold Rush at Madison Square Garden. Tatum reflects on her journey to the top—what felt like a fast rise has actually been years in the making. With a background in powerlifting, cheerleading, and even coaching kids' gymnastics, Tatum shares how each chapter helped shape her in-ring presence. She’s candid about the mental battles that come with being a champion and how her “flawed” mindset only fuels her fire. “You won’t always be perfect,” she says, “but you can always be your best.” The conversation dives deep into life outside the ropes, from married life and homebody vibes to a recent birthday surprise that got her out of the house for Halloween Horror Nights (which, to her surprise, wasn’t scary enough). They also discuss what it means to step into a legendary arena like Madison Square Garden, and why that moment might just make her feel like a real pro for the first time. Of course, it wouldn’t be a Nikki & Brie show without some fun—Tatum jumps into a quick round of Finish the Sentence before closing out with a thoughtful Inspiration & Affirmation: “Trust the wait and enjoy the unexpected.” If you’re not already rooting for this new champ, you will be by the end of the episode.