After being sidelined since WrestleMania 41, Bianca Belair’s recovery has been longer—and rougher—than anyone expected. But now, there’s finally an update.
According to Bodyslam, WWE sources believe the “EST of WWE” could be returning in the early stages of 2026. While nothing is set in stone, there’s growing optimism behind the scenes that Belair may even return earlier than the currently projected timeline.
A Devastating Injury
Belair has been absent from the ring since suffering a devastating injury during her triple threat match against Rhea Ripley and IYO SKY at WrestleMania. The damage involved multiple broken fingers. In July, Belair told CBS Sports just how bad the injury was.
“I broke it in three places and the joint. It healed, but it won’t bend,” Belair said. “You can’t wrestle with a straight finger because it’ll break again… I can’t even sew right now. I can’t even make gear. We’re on the end of this healing process, so we might have some time, but you never know. Crazy things happen.”
While Belair has been recovering, her former tag team partner Jade Cargill has turned heel and captured the WWE Women’s Championship. Belair’s most recent on-screen appearance was as the special guest referee for the No Holds Barred match between Jade Cargill and Naomi at WWE Evolution. With Naomi now away due to pregnancy, recent speculation suggests Belair’s return could be aimed at the 2026 Royal Rumble, potentially setting up a major championship match against Cargill at WrestleMania.
