Bayley has expressed interest in exploring opportunities outside the company, specifically naming TNA and AAA as promotions she would love to work with. Appearing on Busted Open, the former champion discussed the shifting landscape of the wrestling industry and the increasing frequency with which WWE mentions other organizations, such as TNA and New Japan, on its programming. Bayley noted that she started her career at 18 on the independent circuit before signing with WWE in 2012, but she still harbors goals involving other major platforms.
“You don’t want to just be one thing,” Bayley said. “Like, there are so many promotions. When you have guys like AJ Styles, Sami Zayn, or Finn Balor, they’ve all been to these places. So I feel like it’s important to mention the past and mention these things. I would love to dip my toes in TNA and AAA. If we have the doors to do that, I would love to go.”
A Childhood Dream and the Knockouts Division
Bayley’s interest in TNA is rooted in her long-standing admiration for the company’s women’s roster. She recalled how the Knockouts division was a major influence on her during her formative years as a wrestling fan. The veteran noted that the division was widely considered the “hottest” in the industry for an extended period, providing a blueprint for the high-level women’s wrestling she would later help champion in WWE.
“TNA was one of my dreams as a kid,” Bayley explained. “I love the Knockouts division. They were like the hottest division for so long. Gail Kim’s one of my favorites. I did a tryout for TNA years ago, like 2010 or something. The knockouts division has always been a dream.” Her comments come at a time when the “Forbidden Door” between major promotions appears to be more accessible than ever before.
Current Landscape and Roster Verification
The partnership between WWE and TNA has already seen various stars appearing on each other’s programming, fueling speculation that a top-tier name like Bayley could eventually make a special appearance.
The winner of the upcoming number one contender’s gauntlet match on the March 9 episode of Raw will move on to challenge AJ Lee for the Women’s Intercontinental Title. Bayley is among the favorites in that match, which also features IYO SKY, Asuka, and Lyra Valkyria.
If you use any portion of the quotes from this article please credit Busted Open with a h/t to WrestlingNews.co for the transcription.