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The last 24 hours have been a whirlwind of emotions for Asuka and her fans. The Japanese star had an emotional night at Backlash 2026, as she lost to IYO SKY in a WrestleMania-worthy match.
She didn’t just settle the beef with her former protege, but also passed the proverbial torch. The two women shared mutual respect after the match, hugging it out in front of the WWE Universe.
A visibly emotional Asuka planted a kiss on IYO SKY and waved at the Tampa crowd before walking to the back. Fans have since been wondering whether The Empress of Tomorrow had bid farewell to the WWE Universe.
Rumor has it that she was considered to be “semi-retired” after Backlash 2026. There seem to be conflicting reports about her status. In a follow-up update, it was noted that the former Damage CTRL member has been “out indefinitely,” citing personal reasons.
WWE stars and fans alike flooded the X timeline with tributes to the Japanese wrestler. This has sparked some speculation about her leaving the Stamford-based promotion.
PWInsider recently shed light on the situation. The word making the rounds within WWE is that the Kabuki Warriors member could be returning to Japan for an extended period to handle a family matter. Whether or not that is true, only time will tell.
As for now, the 44-year-old veteran is said to be in Knoxville ahead of the RAW after Backlash tonight.
Big E addresses Asuka’s potential WWE departure
During the Backlash 2026 post-show, Big E showered praise on Asuka and said he had never seen her this emotional on television.
The former New Day member is unsure if fans have seen the last of the Empress of Tomorrow. He said the Japanese star will be missed if she leaves WWE.
“I wondered, ‘Is this is a goodbye?’ We’ve never really seen Asuka this emotional. If this is goodbye, I know she will be dearly missed. She has been a pioneer, she has done truly incredible things in the ring before she even got to WWE, but has further staked her claim as an all-time great here in WWE.”
There’s no word yet on whether she will appear on RAW after Backlash 2026.
Will she show up to address the WWE Universe? Fans must tune in tonight to find out.
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