Asuka Still Sidelined as WWE Remains Uncertain About Return Timeline

Asuka hasn’t stepped foot in a WWE ring since May 2024, and it doesn’t look like that will change anytime soon. Despite fan speculation and hopeful tweets, the former Women’s Champion remains out of action, and her return is not on the immediate horizon.

Sources tell Fightful Select that Asuka’s injury, which occurred shortly after she and Kairi Sane lost the WWE Women’s Tag Team Titles, was expected to keep her out for the remainder of 2024—and even beyond WrestleMania 41. WWE apparently never seriously considered her for the card in Las Vegas due to the severity of her condition.

“When Asuka was injured, WWE was pretty sure she’d miss the rest of 2024, and the 2025 WrestleMania,” one source told Fightful.

While WWE creative reportedly did throw around potential return plans for Asuka earlier this year, insiders were taken aback at how early those discussions were happening—especially considering she wasn’t anywhere close to being cleared.

“Creative was discussed for her around the beginning of the year, even though her actually being cleared for Mania was unrealistic.”

There’s been no firm update on when she’ll be back, and at this point, it appears WWE is simply waiting until she’s healthy before locking in a return storyline.

Asuka’s absence has been felt across the women’s division, especially as the Kabuki Warriors were gaining momentum before her injury. Until there’s a green light from medical staff, the Empress of Tomorrow will remain on the sidelines.