Former WWE talent Serena Deeb posted a denial-type statement on her Twitter account Friday night in response to online reports of her arrest last Sunday in Tampa, Florida.
“Ok…can anyone REALLY picture me driving a boat? Get real,” she wrote.
Her arrest report says she was charged with violation 327.35 BUI VESSEL, which according to the official website of the Florida state legislature is (BUI) Boating Under the Influence. The website states that “a person is guilty of the offense of boating under the influence and is subject to punishment as provided in subsection (2) if the person is operating a vessel within this state and: (a) The person is under the influence of alcoholic beverages, any chemical substance set forth in s. 877.111, or any substance controlled under chapter 893, when affected to the extent that the person’s normal faculties are impaired.”
Deeb also addressed individuals she perceives as being judgmental toward her: “AND…next time the highlight of your day involves judging others who you know nothing about, maybe you should look yourself in the mirror.”
Deeb appeared for WWE in 2010 as a member of the CM Punk-led Straight Edge Society, a group which promoted and abided to abstinence and discipline—primarily no smoking, drinking, or drugs. The faction acted as a militant organization, denouncing all people who didn’t practice the straight edge lifestyle, even those who also abstain from substance abuse. Her contract was terminated in August of that year, with WWE sources cited to the Pro Wrestling Torch saying that she was not maintaining the gimmick’s image in public. In December 2011, she acknowledged her troubles with alcohol and proudly proclaimed to having achieved one full year of sobriety.
Deeb tweeted December 5, 2011, “Today I am incredibly proud, as it marks one full year I have gone without drinking alcohol. A year ago I looked myself in the mirror & reevaluated my priorities. I decided to make serious changes. I have always wanted to be a role model & help others around me because I believe that makes the world a better place. I hope this message can inspire & encourage whoever reads it.
“Oftentimes when people approach change, it can be overwhelming. One week is hard, one year is even harder and ‘forever’ almost sounds impossible. From my personal account, I think it’s helpful to take things one day at a time & to constantly remind yourself of the bigger picture.
“We all have changes that we want to implement. A new year approaching is the perfect opportunity. Don’t limit yourself & the potential that you have to live a better life. Change is never easy BUT with a challenge, you build a stronger character. Self confidence & a strong will are very empowering. Take small steps & don’t look back- “Be the change you wish to see in the world.”
Deeb has since taken an indefinite leave from professional wrestling due to the effects of a serious concussion suffered in a match. She now works as a yoga instructor.
