WWE has announced that Kiana James will make her in-ring debut on Monday Night Raw, facing veteran wrestler Natalya. This follows James' promotion from WWE NXT and several backstage appearances. The match will be their second encounter in recent weeks, as they previously faced off on May 20 at a WWE Main Event taping. Natalya's future with WWE remains uncertain as her contract is set to expire this month, with no updates on a renewal.
WWE superstar Liv Morgan and veteran wrestler Natalya have made history by competing in all seven Women's Royal Rumble matches. Morgan, who returned from hiatus, made it to the final two in the 2023 and 2024 matches but was eliminated both times. Natalya sent a heartfelt message to Morgan on Instagram, celebrating their achievement. Morgan also shared a message on social media following her return, hinting at her future in WWE.
Natalya and Tegan Nox's rivalry for an NXT Women's title shot has turned into a rivalry for Chelsea Green and Piper Niven's WWE Women's Tag Team championship. During Tegan's match with Lyra Valkyria on NXT, Valkyria rolled her up while Natalya was distracted, leading to a brawl. This sets up a Tag title bout and raises the question of whether the champs should interact with NXT stars while on NXT.
A Women's World Title match between Rhea Ripley and Natalya on WWE RAW received special praise backstage for its high-quality in-ring action and grittiness. Despite not winning the title, Natalya's competitive performance impressed many, leaving both women with battle scars. Management officials were also happy with the match, indicating more opportunities for these women in the future.
Rhea Ripley retained her SmackDown Women's title against Natalya at a WWE live event in White Plains, NY. After the match, Ripley whispered something in Natalya's ear, which was caught on camera. Natalya had cut a promo before their match at Night of Champions, expressing her confidence and determination to earn Ripley's respect. However, she was squashed in just 69 seconds. Ripley later revealed that it was a birthday present for Natalya.
Two Money in the Bank qualifying matches have been announced for the June 5 episode of WWE RAW, with Becky Lynch facing Sonya Deville and Natalya taking on newcomer Zoey Stark. The winners will advance to the Money in the Bank event.
Mandy Rose, a released star from WWE, could make a return and confront Rhea Ripley at Night of Champions after her match against Natalya for the SmackDown Women’s Championship. Rhea Ripley issued a warning to Natalya ahead of the event, stating that she will end her career.
