Former LSU gymnastics star turns heads after WWE tryout in professional wrestling

Brian Schaible

Former LSU gymnastics star turns heads after WWE tryout in professional wrestling image

After news of her invitation surfaced earlier this month, former LSU gymnastics standout KJ Johnson confirmed she has completed a tryout with the WWE. 

“Finished the tryout week strong! Blessed to have an incredible opportunity,” said KJ on Instagram.

While no decision has been announced, there is already reason for optimism as her path begins to shift from collegiate athletics toward professional wrestling.

Affectionately known as the “Fire Starter” during her time with the LSU Tigers she was often entrusted with leading off lineups and setting the tone inside the PMAC. Her routines brought immediate energy to the building, pairing power with personality in a way that resonated far beyond the scoresheet. That same presence feels well suited for sports entertainment, where timing, confidence, and connection matter as much as physical skill.

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Leading up to the WWE tryout, she kept a relatively low profile on social media after first sharing news of the opportunity. However, her final Instagram post of 2025 was a glamorous shot, the kind that felt less like a post and more like a pause before something bigger.

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Former teammates and competitors, along with fans, flooded the comments section with praise and excitement. Livvy Dunne captured the tone simply with “Typical slay.” Jordan Bowers followed with “OKAY GIRL,” while Haleigh Bryant declared “MY QUEEN.”

The admiration continued. Aleah Finnegan added “Oh baby wowww 😍,” and Lexi Zeiss offered a simple but unmistakable “KJJJJJJ,” a response that needed no explanation among LSU fans.

The reaction served as a reminder of what she meant to the program. Beyond championships, All America recognition, and individual titles, she was a tone setter who elevated the moment before the meet ever fully began.

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Whether or not the pro wrestling opportunity materializes immediately, the belief around her is unmistakable. The gymnastics chapter may be complete, but the momentum has not slowed. If anything, it feels like it is shifting toward a new stage.

For now, she waits. But if her LSU career was any indication, when the spotlight finds her again, she will know exactly what to do with it.

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Editorial Team