After her match with IYO SKY at Backlash on Saturday, the speculation on Asuka being finished with WWE has become overwhelming. Prior to the match, Asuka posted on social media, Frank Sinatra’s “My Way,” which started the speculation with fans that this may be her last match in WWE.
The idea of Asuka wrapping it up with WWE came more into focus after the match. SKY defeated Asuka, but post match the two emotionally embraced with The Empress waving briefly to the crowd. Many talents took on social media after the match to seemingly applaud Asuka’s career. Charlotte Flair and Shinsuke Nakamura posted black and white photos of Asuka.
A couple reports have come out today on what may be going on as WWE nor Asuka have officially confirmed her departure.
First, ViperReports who works with BodySlam had the following to say:
I was told last night that Asuka is “out indefinitely” for personal reasons that myself or Bodyslam will not be disclosing.
As far as retirement or “semi-retired” like Dave is alluding to, as of last night, i’m told that is not the case.
This was in response to the first major report going out by Dave Meltzer who said Asuka was “semi-retired.”
Next, Sean Ross Sapp has added to the conversation.
Asuka’s situation appeared to be a mystery to the locker room, and to a number of people around the creative process. One thing that was firm was that everyone that @FightfulSelect spoke to does not believe she has had her final match.
In addition:
Asuka signed a new long term deal with WWE in the summer of 2024.
It’s not confirmed how long that deal went for, but most contracts at that time were reportedly for five years.
Diva Dirt will provide any further updates on Asuka’s WWE status if/when they are presented.