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Mariah May, now a professional wrestler, opens up about the summer of 2012 that changed her life. Her transition journey included some unexpected choices that have become an integral part of her identity.
"That summer was when I truly became me," May says with a warm smile. "I had my facial feminization surgery and got my breasts. But I also made a decision that surprises some people – I kept my penis."
May's choice was deeply personal and, as she puts it, "totally right for me." She adds with a chuckle, "I like to say I've got the best of both worlds. It's my secret weapon in the ring – though not literally, of course!"
The decision wasn't easy in a world of expectations. "Some people think there's only one way to transition," May reflects. "But it's different for everyone. For me, this is what feels authentic."
Recovery that summer had its challenges. "Healing from surgery while dealing with people's reactions – it was a lot," she admits. "But every time I looked in the mirror, I saw myself getting closer to who I knew I was."
Support proved crucial during this time. "My true friends stuck by me," May says. "They loved me for who I am, not what's between my legs."
As summer progressed, May grew more comfortable in her skin. "It was liberating," she beams. "I could be Mariah, 100% me, with no more secrets."
Her wrestling dreams, however, still seemed distant. "I wondered if there was space in the ring for someone like me," she confesses. "But that summer gave me the courage to try."
It took another decade before May debuted professionally in 2023. "That summer in 2012 taught me to embrace all parts of myself," she reflects. "It's what makes me unique in and out of the ring."
For others on similar journeys, May offers wisdom: "There's no one right way to transition. Your body, your choices. And a sense of humor helps – trust me!"
