The May 11 episode of WWE Raw delivered another emotional chapter in the evolving story between Asuka and Iyo Sky, as Asuka appeared to officially say goodbye before stepping away from WWE television.
While reports suggest this may not be a full retirement, the backstage segment certainly felt like the end of an era.
The moment took place after Je’Von Evans defeated Rusev with the OG Cutter. Backstage, Iyo Sky was approached by Asuka, who embraced her before speaking in Japanese. According to translations shared during the segment, Asuka told Sky she had been searching for someone to carry on her legacy and believed Sky was now that person.
Sky responded emotionally, telling the former WWE Women’s Champion they would “always be family” before saying goodbye. Asuka answered with “see ya later,” hugged her once more, and then walked out of the arena carrying a suitcase.
Sometimes wrestling storylines hit harder than a spinning backfist, and this farewell landed squarely in that category.
Asuka’s WWE RAW farewell follows Backlash retirement speculation
The segment served as a direct follow-up to Asuka’s loss to Sky at WWE Backlash. The two shared an emotional post-match embrace after their highly praised singles match. That moment immediately fueled speculation that Asuka could be preparing to retire or enter a reduced role within WWE.
According to Fightful Select, Asuka’s planned absence has been in motion internally for some time and is unrelated to WWE’s recent roster cuts. Reports also noted that she remains under a long-term WWE contract despite being described internally as “semi-retired.”
PWInsider further reported that Asuka is still aligned with WWE and is expected to spend extended time in Japan during her hiatus. While the exact timeline for a return remains unclear, WWE’s presentation on RAW strongly suggested this was more of a pause than a final curtain call.
Asuka’s departure now leaves Iyo Sky carrying the spotlight forward. This is a role her former mentor appears more than ready to hand over.
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