Subtle Shots Fired At AEW During WrestleMania 42; Wade Barrett: “At The Very Top”

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However, several recent reports suggested that Nikki would be replaced by a returning Paige at WrestleMania 42, who had signed a new contract with the Stamford-based promotion. The real-life Saraya had been heavily rumored to return to WWE since she left AEW in 2025.

The abovementioned report turned out to be true as Paige finally showed up on WWE TV on tonight’s show. Nikki Bella introduced the star, and she teamed up with Brie. This return turned even more iconic as the former Divas Champion and the Hall of Famer ended up winning the Women’s Tag Team Championship.

Following this massive win, commentator Wade Barrett took subtle shots at All Elite Wrestling. He labelled Paige’s return as “shock and awe” for the entire wrestling industry.

Barrett even claimed that the star was back “where she belongs,” seemingly suggesting that she didn’t belong in the Tony Khan-led promotion. He also mentioned that Saraya was back at the “very top.” This was also a subtle shot at AEW, as the star was somewhat lost in the shuffle in the Jacksonville-based promotion.

“Well, shock and awe for the entire industry. Paige is back where she belongs and back at the very top,” he said.

Check out Paige and Brie Bella’s title win in the post below:

It remains to be seen what the Triple H-led creative team has planned for Paige and Brie Bella’s WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship reign after WrestleMania 42.