Retirement speculation surrounding Asuka picked up steam after WWE Backlash. Now, a new report suggests “The Empress of Tomorrow” isn’t ready to walk through the curtain for the final time just yet.
While her future remains under the microscope, WWE reportedly still has immediate plans in place for the former Women’s Champion on tonight’s episode of WWE RAW.
According to Fightful Select, Asuka is expected to appear on RAW before taking an extended leave of absence from WWE. The report noted that her upcoming time away has been planned internally for quite some time. Moreover, it is not connected to WWE’s recent roster cuts.
Fightful Select stated, “Asuka will be taking some time off, but is planned for tonight’s WWE Raw.”
The report also pushed back on theories linking her situation to post-WrestleMania departures, noting the decision had already been in motion behind the scenes.
In other words, this situation appears less like a release and more like a temporary reset — even if the rumor mill has been working overtime like it’s trying to win the 24/7 Championship.
Asuka’s WWE Backlash farewell moment fueled speculation
Much of the concern started after Asuka’s loss to IYO SKY at WWE Backlash. Following the match, the two shared an emotional embrace. Many fans interpreted it as a farewell moment between mentor and student.
Reports from the Wrestling Observer Newsletter later described Asuka internally as being viewed in a “semi-retired” role. Although the exact meaning of that label remained unclear. Meanwhile, PWInsider reported that Asuka remains under a long-term WWE contract signed in the summer of 2024. Moreover, the former WWE Women’s Champion is still aligned with the company.
It is understood that Asuka’s planned hiatus is tied to undisclosed personal reasons. Some reports suggested she could spend significant time in Japan during her absence.
For now, however, WWE fans may still get one more appearance from “The Empress of Tomorrow” before she presses pause on this chapter of her career.
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