Kairi Sane potentially heading to AEW is already becoming a hot topic following her WWE release — and Thekla sounds fully on board with the idea.
While speaking to Inside the Ring, Thekla was asked whether she could realistically see Kairi Sane eventually landing in AEW or whether Japan and Stardom remained the better fit for her long-term future. Thekla immediately praised Sane’s overall presentation and admitted she could absolutely picture her working in AEW.
“I think she’s an outstanding talent, and I could totally see her in AEW. I think that would be cool. I’m always happy to see new people who are good, who have a reputation, who have a look. You know, she knows how to do an entrance.”
At the same time, Thekla also acknowledged the challenges that come with adding too much talent to a crowded locker room, while still making it clear she believes Sane would improve AEW overall.
“So, of course, you always got to be careful—protect yourself. It’s like, you know, the locker room’s small. You can’t have too many people in there; otherwise, it gets cramped. But Kairi’s sick. She’d totally elevate the product if they gave her a chance. The receipt—the receipt is still waiting over here to get paid.”
The comments come only weeks after Sane was released as part of WWE’s post-WrestleMania 42 roster cuts, a move that surprised many fans because she was still actively involved in an on-screen storyline involving Iyo Sky and Asuka.
According to Dave Meltzer in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, WWE’s belief that Sane may eventually relocate back to Japan factored into the company’s decision-making process. Meltzer noted that Sane’s release internally stood out because WWE had been teasing a longer storyline involving tension with Asuka before eventually reuniting with Iyo Sky. Sane later publicly denied requesting her WWE release herself, pushing back against reports suggesting she personally wanted out of the company.
Bottom line — Thekla clearly believes Kairi Sane would thrive in AEW, and based on her comments, she’d personally love the chance to eventually settle unfinished business with her there as well.
Do you think Kairi Sane would be a major addition to AEW, or should she return to Japan instead? Leave your thoughts and feedback below.
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