Saraya Eyes 2026 Return to Wrestling, Hints at WWE Possibilities

Saraya, formerly known as Paige in WWE, is actively training for a potential return to the ring in 2026, sparking speculation about her next move in professional wrestling. After a hiatus of over a year following her last match for AEW in late 2024, the former AEW Women’s World Champion is regaining her passion for the sport and preparing for a comeback.

Return to Training and Passion Rekindled

Saraya revealed she began training again in January, stating, “I’m just trying to get my lick back. You know what I mean? I miss wrestling. I lost my passion for it for a second, I told people months ago I was getting back in the ring in January. And I did just that, and I’m having such a great time.” Source She emphasized her commitment to returning stronger than before, adding, “If I was to ever arrive back to wrestling, I’ll be better than I was before. NXT Paige.” Source

WrestleMania Week Plans and 2026 Outlook

Although attending WrestleVerse, Saraya indicated she would be in Las Vegas during WrestleMania week. She offered a tantalizing glimpse into her future plans, stating, “I will be in Vegas that whole week, so we’re going to have some fun there. But yeah, 2026 is looking really great. I have a busy schedule ahead of me and that’s about it, you know. That’s about it, that’s all I’m giving.” Source

Potential WWE Tag Team Partners

When asked about potential tag team partners if she were to return to WWE, Saraya immediately named AJ Lee as her first choice. If unavailable, she expressed interest in teaming with Rhea Ripley, stating, “Sorry IYO, I might steal her off you.” Source

Departure from AEW and Openness to WWE

Saraya officially departed from AEW in March 2025 after a period of sporadic appearances, wrestling eleven times in 2024. Source She expressed gratitude for her time with the promotion and praised Tony Khan, stating he is “f***ing awesome.” Source She previously indicated a willingness to return to WWE, stating, “I love WWE and I don’t have any negative feelings towards them. They raised me. They saved me a lot.” Source

Previous Career and Injury

Saraya enjoyed a successful run in WWE as Paige, becoming a former NXT Women’s Champion and a multiple-time WWE Divas Champion. However, she was forced to retire in December 2017 due to a serious neck injury. Source She later made her AEW debut at Grand Slam in 2022. Source