Asuka’s future in WWE suddenly sounds far more uncertain than fans originally realized following the emotional scenes surrounding her loss to Iyo Sky at WWE Backlash.
According to Dave Meltzer in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, WWE sources are currently describing Asuka internally as “semi-retired” while she returns to Japan to deal with family-related matters.
However, the bigger takeaway from the report may be that even WWE itself does not seem fully sure what happens next for her career. Meltzer stated that WWE sources told him Asuka is stepping away for now because of family business in Japan.
“Nothing else is clear as far as if she should come back or if she does, will her role be different.”
“When we contacted those in WWE, they described Asuka as semi-retiring. She is going back to Japan for now to take care of family related business.”
The situation became a massive talking point after Backlash ended with an emotional embrace between Asuka and Iyo Sky, followed by Asuka waving goodbye to fans in Tampa. Things became even more emotional the following night on WWE Raw when Asuka told Sky “See you later” backstage before leaving the arena.
Michael Cole later added to the speculation by openly saying Asuka’s future was “up in the air” during commentary.
Even Meltzer admitted earlier in the week that the term “semi-retired” initially confused people internally because nobody seemed to have a clear explanation of what it actually meant long-term.
At the same time, Sean Ross Sapp previously reported that people inside WWE do not believe Asuka has wrestled her final match, while also confirming she signed a long-term WWE contract extension in 2024.
The entire situation also unfolded shortly after Kairi Sane was released during WWE’s post-WrestleMania 42 roster cuts, which heavily changed the original direction of the Iyo Sky-Asuka storyline.
At this point, Asuka leaving WWE television appears very real — but what happens after her family situation in Japan is handled still sounds completely uncertain even internally.
Do you think Asuka eventually comes back to WWE full-time, or does this feel like the beginning of the end of her wrestling career? Leave your thoughts and feedback in the comments below.
