Dakota Kai, now wrestling under the name Charlie, marked her return to the ring on March 8, 2026, at Wrestle Queendom VIII in London. This event, part of Pro Wrestling: EVE, took place on International Women’s Day and featured Charlie challenging Kris Statlander for the EVE International Championship.
Details of the Match Against Kris Statlander
This match was Charlie’s first in 349 days, her previous appearance having been on WWE Main Event. Despite showing resilience, she was unable to capture the championship, with Kris Statlander successfully defending her title by hitting Charlie with three piledrivers to secure the victory.
Fans and commentators highlighted the intensity of the bout, with one noting,
“Kris Statlander. Goodness. That was violent. #EVEwrestling #WrestleQueendom”
—JJ Williams, wrestling journalist. Other tweets celebrated Charlie’s efforts, such as “Yeah Charlie!! #WrestleQueendom”—CrispyWrestling and remarked on key moments including “belly to belly 🔥 #WrestleQueendom”—TalonWulf91.
Context and Importance of Charlie’s Return
Charlie is best known for her time in WWE, performing on the NXT brand under the name Dakota Kai. Her appearance at Wrestle Queendom VIII represents a significant moment as she re-enters competitive wrestling outside WWE, confronting top talent like AEW’s Kris Statlander. This match may signal further engagements in the independent circuit and pro wrestling events beyond her WWE tenure.
Kris Statlander.
Goodness. That was violent. #EVEwrestling#WrestleQueendom pic.twitter.com/yklrKHn5RN
— JJ Williams (@JJWilliamsWON) March 8, 2026
belly to belly 🔥#WrestleQueendom pic.twitter.com/WuPuVLqaGW
— TalonWulf91 (@JohnnyKobashi) March 8, 2026
Yeah Charlie!!#WrestleQueendom pic.twitter.com/2QpG4XHwbp
— CrispyWrestling (@CrispyWrestlin) March 8, 2026
