Former WWE Divas Champion and AEW Women’s World Champion Saraya, formerly known as Paige, made a return to the independent wrestling scene this weekend, teasing that it might not be a one-time occurrence. Appearing at Insane Wrestling Revolution’s (IWR) Seasons Beating event in Monroe, Michigan, on Saturday, December 27, Saraya surprised fans by stepping back inside the squared circle for the first time in over a year.
The appearance marked a significant moment for the British star, who has been a free agent since her departure from All Elite Wrestling in March 2025. Her last televised match took place on the October 8, 2024, episode of AEW Dynamite, making this her first wrestling appearance in approximately 14 months. Fans in attendance were sent into a frenzy when Saraya made her entrance to her beloved WWE theme song, “Stars in the Night,” a track she hasn’t used since leaving the company years ago.
While she did not compete in a match, Saraya did not shy away from the action. During a segment with IWR talent Pierre Gerin, Saraya got physical, delivering a low blow to Gerin after he interrupted her appearance.
Taking to X shortly after the show, Saraya expressed her excitement and hinted that her calendar might be filling up soon. “I forgot how fun indies are! Minus my dad’s shows it’s been 14 years since my last one,” Saraya wrote. “Was supposed to be a one off but man what a blast, might have to do more .. Thanks to IWR for having me. We packed the place out, and they were loud af. So fun!! Till next time.”
Since leaving AEW earlier this year, she has been publicly open to the idea of a WWE return, though no official deal has materialized. The timing of Saraya’s return to the spotlight is particularly intriguing given the current wrestling landscape. With the Royal Rumble set to take place in Saudi Arabia on January 31, 2026, speculation is already running rampant about potential surprise entrants for the women’s match.
I forgot how fun indies are! Minus my dad’s shows it’s been 14 years since my last one. Was supposed to be a one off but man what a blast, might have to do more 🤔.. Thanks to IWR for having me. We packed the place out and and they were loud af. So fun!!
Till next time ⚡️🖤— SARAYA (@Saraya) December 28, 2025
