A brand new report has provided an update on Asuka and her in-ring status following her feud-ending match with IYO SKY finally night’s WWE Backlash 2026 pay-per-view event.
As we previously reported here on eWn, Saturday night’s show featured a singles match between Asuka and IYO SKY, with SKY ultimately picking up the victory. Following the bout, the 2 shared an emotional embrace within the ring, while comments made by Big E through the post-show fueled speculation that the moment could have served as a farewell for Asuka.
Speaking on “Wrestling Observer Radio” after the event, Dave Meltzer stated that he had heard Asuka is now considered “semi-retired,” adding that several people backstage were reportedly saying goodbye to her after the show. Meltzer clarified that he has not received a precise explanation of what “semi-retired” means in this case, noting that it stays unclear whether Asuka could still make occasional appearances moving forward.
Following the event, IYO SKY took to social media to pay tribute to Asuka, calling their match the “final chapter” of their story together. SKY wrote,
“Our story involves its final chapter with today’s match. The moment the match ended, my heart was full of all types of emotions. Meeting ASUKA-san, Spending the identical time together, With the ability to learn a lot up close— These are irreplaceable treasures to me. Thanks a lot ASUKA-San We love you ASUKA-San.”
At the moment, WWE has not officially confirmed any change to Asuka’s status. She stays listed as a member of the RAW roster on WWE’s official roster page.
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