Mike Johnson of PWInsider has provided a key update on Asuka’s status, reporting that she is present in Knoxville ahead of tonight’s Raw despite an unconfirmed story circulating within some WWE circles about her situation.
Johnson reported that a story has been making the rounds among some in WWE that Asuka is returning to Japan for an extended period to handle a family matter that will not be disclosed. However, Johnson noted that the story has not yet been confirmed as accurate and that Asuka is in Knoxville ahead of tonight’s Raw and ready to appear if WWE creative calls for it.
The update adds another layer of uncertainty to an already complicated picture surrounding Asuka’s future. Dave Meltzer reported on Wrestling Observer Radio following Backlash on Saturday that Asuka is semi-retired, describing people saying goodbye to her backstage at the event. Fightful later reported that Asuka signed a long-term WWE deal in the summer of 2024, raising questions about how a semi-retirement or extended absence would interact with that contract, given TKO’s recent efforts to restructure deals with other talent.
Raw takes place tonight, featuring the fallout from Backlash including a Roman Reigns Acknowledgment Ceremony, an Oba Femi Open Challenge, and a six-man tag match pitting The Street Profits and Joe Hendry against Bron Breakker, Logan Paul, and Austin Theory. The full announced card for tonight’s Raw from Food City Center in Knoxville, Tennessee, is as follows:
- Acknowledgment Ceremony: Jacob Fatu acknowledges Roman Reigns
- Oba Femi Open Challenge
- The Street Profits and Joe Hendry vs. Bron Breakker, Logan Paul and Austin Theory
- Brie Bella and Paige appear live
- CM Punk to appear
- Seth Rollins to appear
