Corey Graves Wife: Inside His Marriage to WWE Superstar Carmella
Many WWE fans searching for Corey Graves’ wife want to know more about the woman who shares her life with the former wrestler turned commentator. Corey Graves, known off-screen as Matthew Polinsky, has become one of WWE’s most recognizable voices, while his wife, Carmella—real name Leah Van Dale—has built an impressive career of her own as a charismatic and athletic WWE performer. Their relationship has been the focus of headlines, fan discussions, and even televised storylines, making them one of the most talked-about couples in modern wrestling. But beyond the screens and social media, their love story is one defined by strength, resilience, and personal growth. This article takes a closer look at how Corey and Carmella met, how their relationship evolved, their marriage, and the life they share today.
Who Is Corey Graves?
Corey Graves began his wrestling career on the independent circuit before signing with WWE, where he wrestled in NXT and quickly became a fan favorite due to his edgy persona and intense ring presence. However, repeated concussions forced him into early retirement from in-ring competition. Instead of stepping away from wrestling altogether, Corey reinvented himself as a commentator and analyst. His sharp wit, quick humor, and distinctive voice helped him become one of WWE’s most prominent broadcasters.
Beyond his professional achievements, Corey has openly discussed mental health challenges, family dynamics, and the personal struggles that shaped his journey. His honesty has made him relatable to fans and offered insight into the man behind the microphone.
Who Is Carmella?
Carmella, born Leah Van Dale, is a second-generation performer whose father was a wrestler in the 1990s. She began her WWE journey as a dancer for the Los Angeles Lakers and New England Patriots before transitioning into professional wrestling. Signing with WWE in 2013, she rose through NXT with her bright personality, athletic ability, and confidence.
Carmella made history in WWE as the first-ever women’s Money in the Bank winner and later became SmackDown Women’s Champion. She built her persona around charisma, glamour, and versatility, seamlessly switching between comedic roles and serious competitive storylines. Outside the ring, she has also embraced entrepreneurship and fashion, launching her own wine brand and clothing collaborations.
How Corey Graves and Carmella Met
Corey and Carmella first crossed paths through their work in WWE. With Corey serving as a commentator and Carmella rising in WWE’s women’s division, they worked in overlapping environments. Although early interactions were strictly professional, their shared experiences traveling for WWE events and appearing backstage helped build a foundation for friendship.
Their relationship did not become public until 2019, when rumors began circulating online. At the time, misinformation quickly spread, prompting Carmella and Corey to address the situation directly on television and in interviews. Corey’s separation from his previous marriage had already taken place, but the timing of the rumors created confusion among fans. Both Corey and Carmella clarified the truth and expressed frustration at being misrepresented in the public eye.
Their Relationship Journey
Despite the initial controversy, Corey and Carmella remained committed to one another, openly discussing how difficult it was to navigate public judgment during the early days of their relationship. Their candor helped reshape the narrative. Over time, fans began to see the genuine affection and respect they shared.
As both continued growing in their WWE roles, they balanced demanding schedules with communication and support. Corey often spoke about how Carmella encouraged him during moments of self-doubt, while Carmella credited Corey for helping her stay grounded through career ups and downs.
Their relationship also appeared on WWE’s reality show Total Divas, where viewers witnessed their dynamic behind the scenes. Rather than scripted drama, the show portrayed them navigating normal relationship challenges, reinforcing their authenticity as a couple.
Corey Graves and Carmella’s Marriage
After building a deeper bond and weathering public scrutiny, Corey Graves and Carmella were engaged and later married on April 7, 2022. Their wedding was a celebration filled with love, emotion, and the presence of many WWE friends and colleagues. The event reflected their journey—from a relationship once overshadowed by rumors to a joyful, openly shared milestone.
Photos from their wedding showed Carmella in a glamorous gown and Corey in a stylish suit, with the couple smiling widely and surrounded by loved ones. The night became a symbol of their resilience and growth, marking the start of a new chapter in their life together.
Life Together Today
Today, Corey and Carmella share a life that blends professional intensity with personal grounding. They travel together, support each other’s ventures, and frequently appear on each other’s social media. Their playful banter and affectionate posts give fans glimpses into a relationship built on humor and mutual admiration.
In addition to daily life, both have spoken about their shared values. They prioritize privacy when necessary, avoid feeding negative speculation, and choose to be open only when it feels right for them. Their approach to public life demonstrates maturity and respect, both for themselves and for their fans.
Family Plans and Personal Challenges
One of the most meaningful aspects of their story is their openness about personal struggles. Carmella has bravely shared her experiences with miscarriages and fertility challenges, shedding light on an issue many women face silently. Her honesty offered comfort to fans going through similar situations, and Corey publicly supported her every step of the way.
Their vulnerability brought them closer as a couple and showed the wrestling community that even public figures face private heartbreak. By sharing their story, they transformed pain into solidarity and connection.
In 2023, their perseverance was rewarded when Carmella announced her pregnancy. The couple welcomed their first child together, a son, in late 2023, marking a beautiful new chapter for their family.
Public Perception and Their Strength as a Couple
Over time, Corey and Carmella have become one of WWE’s most respected couples. Their openness, combined with their ability to rise above negativity, has earned them widespread support. Fans now view them not through the lens of controversy, but through the lens of authenticity and strength. Their relationship demonstrates how two people can grow together while facing the pressures of public life.
Featured Image Source: wwe.com
