Saraya took to social media over the weekend to share a reflective message regarding a pivotal and traumatic moment in her career. On December 27, 2017, Saraya—then performing as Paige—worked a six-woman tag team match at a WWE house show in Uniondale, New York, where she suffered a severe injury.
The incident occurred when Mercedes Mone, who was known as Sasha Banks at the time, delivered a kick to her back. The move impacted Saraya’s neck and led to temporary paralysis in the ring, a terrifying moment that eventually forced her to announce her retirement from wrestling the following year. It would be nearly five years before she wrestled again.
She would go on to make a comeback in 2022 with AEW, enjoying a three-year run with the company that included an AEW Women’s World Championship reign before leaving earlier this year. Since her departure, Saraya has remained active, recently making a notable independent wrestling appearance for Insane Wrestling Revolution.
On the eighth anniversary of that life-changing night in Uniondale, she looked back on the journey she has taken since she thought her time in the ring was finished forever.
“8 years yesterday from when I thought my career was over during a Uniondale house show,” Saraya wrote. “What a ride it’s been since. Grateful for my health, family, friends and fans. You truly keep me going! My noodle neck is as strong as ever haha. Can’t wait for what 2026 has in store.”
Saraya’s recent appearance for Insane Wrestling Revolution at Season’s Beatings Fest on December 27 has generated speculation, particularly because she used her old WWE theme song, “Stars in the Night”. This has fueled fan speculation about a potential return to WWE, especially with the Royal Rumble coming up on January 31, 2026, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Saraya noted on social media that while the IWR show was supposed to be a one-off, she had a “blast” and might have to do more independent dates in the future.
8 years yesterday from when I thought my career was over during a Uniondale house show. What a ride it’s been since. Grateful for my health, family, friends and fans. You truly keep me going! My noodle neck is as strong as ever haha
Can’t wait for what 2026 has in store ❤️⚡️
— SARAYA (@Saraya) December 29, 2025
