This week’s Raw featured the highly anticipated return of former Women’s Champion Asuka. The Empress of Tomorrow stepped back into the ring for the Queen of the Ring tournament. She faced Stephanie Vaquer, Ivy Nile, and Raquel Rodriguez in her comeback match. Despite being absent for over 408 days, Asuka showed no signs of rust. She secured a decisive victory and announced her return in emphatic fashion.
Asuka dominated throughout the match, controlling her opponents both inside and outside the ring. Despite competing for the first time in over a year, she displayed remarkable sharpness and timing. The former Women’s Champion executed several high-impact moves with apparent ease and confidence. In the closing moments, Asuka delivered the Empress Impact to Rodriguez, securing an impressive victory in her triumphant return.
The 43-year-old veteran received some assistance from Rhea Ripley during the contest. Prior to this comeback, Asuka’s last WWE appearance was at Backlash in France on May 4, 2024. She had partnered with Kairi Sane that evening to challenge Bianca Belair and Jade Cargill for the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships.
After the match, Cathy Kelley caught up with the Empress of Tomorrow for a quick interview, asking what’s next for her in WWE. She didn’t waste any time—she said she’s better than ever and ready for real competition. Asuka wrapped it up with her signature line, “No one is ready for Asuka,” making it loud and clear that she is back to take over Raw.
Asuka is set to face Alexa Bliss on SmackDown this week
With her latest victory, Asuka has advanced to the Queen of the Ring tournament semi-finals. The stakes are enormous, as the tournament winner earns a Women’s World Championship opportunity at SummerSlam in August. Next, the former Damage CTRL member will face Alexa Bliss on SmackDown in what promises to be an unmissable encounter.
The Five Feet of Fury secured her semi-final spot by defeating Charlotte Flair, Candice LeRae, and Alba Fyre last week on SmackDown. Now, Bliss prepares to face Asuka in one of the tournament’s most anticipated matchups. These two share extensive WWE history, and their upcoming clash will undoubtedly reignite their storied rivalry.
Meanwhile, on the other side of the bracket, Cargill faces Perez in the remaining semi-final. With exceptional talent competing and a SummerSlam championship opportunity at stake, the tournament intensity is escalating. Following her dominant return performance, Asuka appears to be a strong contender to capture the coveted August title shot.