Barbara Blank, American model and former professional wrestler

Barbara Blank Coba: The Enduring Legacy of Kelly Kelly in WWE and Beyond

Barbara Jean Blank, professionally known as Barbie Blank and, most famously, by her WWE ring name Kelly Kelly, is an accomplished American professional wrestler and former model. Her career trajectory showcases a dynamic evolution from a background in gymnastics and cheerleading to becoming a prominent figure in sports entertainment and a trailblazer in women's wrestling, alongside ventures in television and film.

Early Life and Pre-WWE Career Foundations

Born Barbara Jean Blank on January 15, 1987, her athletic prowess was evident from a young age through her involvement in gymnastics and cheerleading. These disciplines honed the agility, flexibility, and stage presence that would later become hallmarks of her wrestling style. Prior to her wrestling career, Blank leveraged her striking looks and athletic build in the modeling industry, notably working for internationally recognized brands such as Venus Swimwear and Hawaiian Tropic. These experiences not only built her public profile but also provided a foundation in performance and visual presentation.

WWE Career: A Trailblazer in Women's Wrestling

Emergence on ECW: From Dancer to Diva

Blank's entry into the world of professional wrestling began in 2006 when she signed a developmental contract with World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). Following a period of training and refinement at Ohio Valley Wrestling (OVW), then a primary developmental territory for WWE, she made her highly anticipated debut on the revitalized ECW brand in June 2006. Initially, under the moniker 'Kelly Kelly', her role was primarily non-wrestling, featuring prominently as part of Extreme Exposé. This dance and entertainment trio, alongside fellow performers Layla and Brooke Adams (later known as Brooke Tessmacher), became a notable segment on ECW, allowing Kelly Kelly to build character and connect with the audience before transitioning into full-time competition.

Ascent to Championship Glory

By late 2007, Kelly Kelly began to transition from a non-wrestling role into an active in-ring competitor, showcasing her developing skills. She courageously challenged for both the prestigious WWE Divas Championship and the WWE Women's Championship on multiple occasions. Though initial attempts were unsuccessful, her perseverance and growing popularity resonated with fans. Her dedication culminated on June 20, 2011, when she triumphantly captured the WWE Divas Championship, defeating Brie Bella on an episode of Monday Night Raw. This marked a significant milestone in her career, commencing a four-month reign that solidified her position as a top-tier competitor in WWE's Divas division.

Post-Full-Time Departure and Historic Returns

After a memorable run, Kelly Kelly departed from WWE in September 2012, seeking a break from the demanding schedule of a full-time performer. However, her connection to the WWE Universe remained strong, leading to several impactful occasional appearances in subsequent years. She notably participated in milestone events such as the Women's Royal Rumble matches in 2018, 2020, and 2022, demonstrating her continued passion for the sport and her enduring popularity. A truly historic moment occurred on the Raw Reunion special on July 22, 2019, when Kelly Kelly made history by pinning WWE Hall of Famer Gerald Brisco to win the WWE 24/7 Championship. This victory made her the first woman ever to hold the unique title, known for its round-the-clock defense rule, further cementing her legacy as an innovator and a two-time champion in WWE, holding both the Divas Championship and the 24/7 Championship.

Beyond the Ring: Media and Entertainment Ventures

Beyond her illustrious wrestling career, Barbara Blank has expanded her presence into various entertainment mediums. She has appeared on a number of television shows, most notably as a main cast member of the E! reality television program WAGS (Wives and Girlfriends of Sports Stars). This show provided viewers with an intimate look into the lives of the partners of high-profile athletes, offering a different dimension to her public persona. In 2020, Blank made her feature film acting debut in "Disturbing the Peace," an action thriller released on January 17, 2020, showcasing her versatility as an entertainer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Kelly Kelly

What is Kelly Kelly's real name?
Kelly Kelly's birth name is Barbara Jean Blank, and she is also professionally known as Barbie Blank and Barbara Blank Coba.
What championships did Kelly Kelly win in WWE?
Kelly Kelly is a two-time WWE champion, having held the WWE Divas Championship and, historically, becoming the first woman to win the WWE 24/7 Championship.
When did Kelly Kelly debut in WWE?
Kelly Kelly debuted in WWE on the ECW brand in June 2006.
What was Extreme Exposé?
Extreme Exposé was a dance and entertainment trio on WWE's ECW brand, consisting of Kelly Kelly, Layla, and Brooke Adams (later known as Brooke Tessmacher).
Has Kelly Kelly appeared in movies or TV shows outside of wrestling?
Yes, Barbara Blank was a main cast member on the reality TV show WAGS and made her film acting debut in the action thriller "Disturbing the Peace" in 2020.