Catherine Joy "C. J." Perry (born March 24, 1985) is an American actress and professional wrestler. Catherine Joy "CJ" Perry’s journey from the runway to the wrestling ring and back again is a masterclass in reinvention. Before she became known to WWE fans as the “Ravishing Russian” Lana, Perry was already making waves in the modeling world. Her early exposure came as part of the FSU Cowgirls, a group of spirited Florida State University students who gained national attention during college football broadcasts. That visibility opened doors to modeling gigs with brands like Red Bull and RIDGID Tools and eventually led her to Los Angeles to pursue acting and entertainment full-time.
But it was in 2013 that Perry’s career took a dramatic turn when she signed with WWE. Embracing the role of a villainous manager fluent in Russian, she captivated audiences with her commanding presence and theatrical flair. Over time, she transitioned into in-ring competition, proving her versatility as both a performer and athlete. After her WWE and AEW stints, Perry returned to her modeling roots—this time with a larger platform and a global fanbase. Her post-wrestling modeling work blends glamour with grit, reflecting a woman who’s mastered the art of transformation while staying true to her bold, unapologetic persona.
