Career
Bäckman also competed as "Spirit" on the Swedish version of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Television"s Gladiators franchise. From 2013 to 2014, Bäckman was signed to WWE, working in their developmental branch, NXT.
Bäckman began arm wrestling at age 14. She is one of the most decorated women"s arm wrestlers in the world.
She retired from arm wrestling to pursue a wrestling career in May 2013 when she decided to sign with WWE. Bäckman portrays Gladiator "Spirit" on the Swedish version of Gladiators (or Gladiatorerna as the show, which airs on TV4, is referred to in Sweden).
Bäckman replaced “Stinger”, who was portrayed by Cajsa Nilsson. In an article for the most popular Swedish newspaper (Aftonbladet), Bäckman referred to being a Gladiator as "a childhood dream" of hers.
WWE (2013-2014)
In March 2013, it was reported that Bäckman signed a developmental contract with WWE and would report to their developmental territory NXT. Bäckman"s ring name was revealed as Shara on 10 February 2014. Bäckman requested and was granted her release from her contract on April 30, 2014.