While Backlash received mixed reviews from fans, it’s certainly still getting many people talking. One of the biggest stories to come out of this post-WrestleMania PLE was that Asuka seemingly retired after her match with Iyo Sky. The Empress of Tomorrow gave a tearful hug to her former Damage CTRL teammate before giving an emotional wave goodbye to the Tampa crowd. To the shock of many, Asuka was present on Raw from Knoxville this week. However, they were left stunned as Asuka walks out of WWE for now.
Asuka’s Legacy with Iyo Sky and Kairi Sane
Damage CTRL heavily influenced Asuka’s final chapter in WWE. When she first arrived in WWE, the undefeated Asuka was a force to be reckoned with.
After Asuka suffered defeat at WrestleMania 34, her career seemed to teeter along. While she’d secure Money in the Bank and win Championships, the highly-hyped Superstar never seemed to reach the next level.
Thankfully, the former Hana received new life when Kairi Sane joined forces with her. The Kabuki Warriors would become the top Tag Team during the pandemic. While Kairi Sane would leave WWE in 2020, The Pirate Princess reunited with Asuka in Damage CTRL in 2023.
At the time, Iyo Sky was also a prominent member of Bayley’s faction. By 2024, Damage CTRL turned on The Genius of the Sky, helping to make Iyo the most popular female babyface on the roster.
After Iyo and Rhea Ripley captured the Tag Team gold from The Kabuki Warriors, Asuka increased her verbal and physical abuse of Kairi Sane. This torment became too much for Iyo Sky to witness.
It seemed like the three women were on a path to WrestleMania, but many unforeseen circumstances saw The Kabuki Warriors get cut from the card. A week later, Kairi Sane would get cut from WWE.
At Backlash, Iyo Sky closed the chapter on Damage CTRL once and for all. The RhIYO member defeated her mentor, prompting Asuka to take a bow on her career.
Asuka Passes the Torch to Iyo Sky
Iyo Sky and Asuka shared a moment during a backstage segment on Raw from Knoxville. The Empress embraced Iyo as the two spoke in Japanese. However, the former Tag Team partners did take a moment to share some kind words for English-speaking fans.
It was then that Asuka revealed her master plan:
“I was looking for someone to take over my position.
Finally, you’ve become the person. I am so glad it was you. I am proud of you.”
An emotional Iyo Sky shared her love for Asuka in return. The two seemed genuinely touched by the moment, as they continued to embrace.
Iyo then let Asuka know:
“Even if we fight, we will always be family.
Goodbye, Asuka-san.”
For one last time, the two Joshi legends hugged and spoke in their native language. Then, Asuka walks away from WWE.
Asuka Walks Away from WWE on Raw
After Asuka and Iyo Sky said their goodbyes, Asuka took her suitcase and walked out the door. The camera stayed to see Asuka leave the building before turning to a downtrodden Iyo Sky.
On Instagram, Asuka shared a pic of her suitcase, complete with her masks and other Empress attire:
Although Asuka is wrapping up with WWE full-time, she is not saying goodbye forever. In fact, the former WWE Women’s Champion even dropped a hint.
When Asuka hugged Iyo, she said:
“See you later.”
This tease might indicate Asuka will be back in WWE someday. Last night’s Raw was full of many teases, as LA Knight’s future plans were also hinted at.
For those wondering, Asuka is still under contract with WWE. It’s believed she will most likely wrestle again. However, the multi-time Champion will be used on special occasions going forward.
While some are using the term “semi-retired,” it’s believed she may have restructured her deal with TKO. In addition, it’s also been said that Asuka is taking a break to go home to Japan for “personal reasons.” Instead of speculating, we will respect Asuka’s privacy and hope to see her in a wrestling ring again soon!