From TJ to Berckeley and from there to the pankration: she is Thunder Rosa

Born in Tijuana, Baja California, in a family of four women, Melissa Cervantes known as Thunder Rosa, who in her beginnings in the ring performed with the nicknames “La Mera Mera”, “Kobra Moon” and “Serpent of the Sea”. , is an example of a life story marked by perseverance, discipline, determination and improvement.

Since she was little she faced economic difficulties so she had to combine study with work to help her parents, since she realized that education was her main way to escape the shortcomings she had and at the same time, she always knew that She would become someone important, who would help many people and that long-awaited improvement would be waiting for her on the other side of the border.

Thus, at the age of 17 with the support of his family, he managed to move to the United States to pursue his dreams, first learning to speak English, working in restaurants, until he finally applied to various universities, Berkeley being the one chosen to study Sciences. Politicians, whose career combined with social work work.

However, he still felt that he was missing a complement to his life like playing a sport, so he tried to play basketball, but, after witnessing a wrestling match, he fell in love with the sport and decided to dedicate himself to it professionally, discovering his new passion at 27 years old.

With determination and effort, she made her way in the world of wrestling, overcoming obstacles, including discrimination among colleagues, men, and even some “haters.”

Since then, she has distinguished herself as a top wrestler, dedicating her time not only to her in-ring career, but also to social, educational and charitable causes.

-Who are you outside the world of wrestling? What activities do you do besides being a fighter?

– Thunder Rosa: I am a daughter, sister, partner and adoptive mother. Before I got into wrestling, I had plans to be a teacher or work in social services. I have always been very ambitious and worked since I was young to help my family and I am very committed to social work.

-What was your childhood like and how did you get to Berkeley University?

-TR: I grew up in Tijuana in a family with few economic opportunities. My dad worked as a taxi driver and my mom was a housewife. At 17, I left everything and went to live with my aunt in the United States to study at university. It was a sacrifice, but I knew that education was my way out of poverty.

Fearsome fighter

-How was your transition from being a university student to becoming a wrestler?

-TR: After working as an activist and social worker, I discovered wrestling at age 27. I always wanted to be an athlete and wrestling gave me that opportunity. I went to acrobatics classes, got in shape and immersed myself in this new world.

-How did you find your identity as a fighter?

-TR: After witnessing a wrestling match and feeling an immediate connection with the sport. Through practice and training, I developed my personality in the ring, I made a whole character around myself, to be a respected and feared figure in the world of wrestling.

-What do you feel when you are in the ring?

-TR: I experience a mix of intense emotions. I feel a rush of adrenaline and a deep connection with the audience that drives me to give my best. I also experience a feeling of power and control, I feel in my element and that I have the ability to take on any rival that stands in my way.

-How do you characterize yourself to get into the ring?

-TR: When I prepare to go into the ring, I completely immerse myself in my character. I transform into a warrior ready to face any challenge. My outfit is a fundamental part of my identity as a fighter. I opt for vibrant colors that reflect my energy and determination, my makeup is a catrina that reflects my Mexican roots, with shades that highlight my fierce look, giving me an additional advantage against my opponents.

– What is your style when fighting in the ring?

-TR: It is a combination of the Japanese Strong Style, which is characterized by its intensity and focus on forceful blows. I have also incorporated American wrestling techniques, which provide variety and versatility. And, of course, I cannot forget the style of Mexican wrestling, which is part of my cultural heritage and which adds a dose of spectacularity.

Champion in Tokyo

-You have achieved an impressive series of championships throughout your career. Could you share some of the highlights?

-TR: In 2018 I had the honor of becoming the International Princess Champion in Tokyo Joshi Pro Wrestling, being the first gaijin to achieve this title in the history of the organization. It was a special moment for me.

– Without a doubt, that was a great achievement. What other moments would you highlight?

-TR: In 2022, I had the opportunity to face Dr. Britt Baker at Dynamite: St. Patricks Day Slam, where she won the AEW Women’s World Championship. This victory not only meant a personal achievement, but also made history by becoming the first professional wrestling world champion born in Mexico to compete in a United States promotion.

Her grandfather, inspiration in the fight
– Could you tell us a little about your relationship with your family?

-TR: My family has always been my greatest support. My mother has been a fundamental pillar. At first, when I decided to dedicate myself to professional wrestling, she was worried about the risks involved, but it also doesn’t bring back good memories because her father, or my grandfather, died a few years ago of cardiac arrest when he went to see a wrestling function and his death even appeared in the newspaper: he died from two to three falls, they wrote.

Charitable causes

– How do you manage to balance your career as a fighter with your social activism?

-TR: I never rest. I work with non-profit organizations, donate part of my profits and participate in charity events. It is important to me to use my platform to help others. One of the organizations that I actively support is “Fight Against Childhood Cancer”, which is dedicated to providing support to children and families affected by this disease.

– We understand that you are visiting Mexico for a social cause. What does it consist of?

-TR: I have plans to organize a special function in mid-September in collaboration with the Mexican Wrestling Association at the Arena México, the proceeds of which will go to the food bank.

-What message would you like to leave your fans?

-TR: I want to tell them that nothing is impossible if they work hard and believe in themselves. Always remain grateful for what you have and never give up.

Courtesy: https://ovaciones.com/de-tj-a-berckeley-y-de-ahi-al-pancracio-ella-es-thunder-rosa/