WWE referee Daphanie LaShaunn and her husband, former WWE wrestler Leon Ruff, were involved in a terrifying car accident on January 18, 2026, when their vehicle was rear-ended and totaled. Both were left sore, with LaShaunn experiencing more pain. And now LaShaunn has shared an update on Instagram, thanking fans for their support and prayers. She assured everyone she’s recovering well and will return to work soon, while stressing, “Always wear your seatbelt.”
31-year-old LaShaunn, real name Aja Smith Perera, began her wrestling career in 2013 as an independent wrestler, working for promotions including SHINE, EVOLVE, and CHIKARA until retiring from in-ring competition in early 2020. From there, she began refereeing for WWE, starting in NXT before moving to the main roster, primarily on SmackDown. Subsequently, she made history as the first Black female referee to officiate a WrestleMania matchin 2022.
