Dakota Kai, a well-known name in women’s wrestling, gained significant recognition during her time with WWE, particularly through her performances in NXT. The 37-year-old wrestler also made an impact on WWE’s main roster as part of the group Damage CTRL. However, she has been noticeably absent from WWE programming for several months.
The reason behind Dakota Kai’s disappearance from WWE is her release from the company in May 2025, part of a widespread roster reduction that affected numerous notable wrestlers. Since her release, she has stayed away from active competition and the wrestling spotlight.
In recent interviews, Kai revealed that the release profoundly affected her confidence and left her uncertain about her next steps. She emphasized the need to focus on rebuilding herself both mentally and physically. Kai attributed her release to a shift in WWE management and creative directions, alongside her injury history playing a significant role in the decision.
Since parting ways with WWE, Kai has taken an extended break from wrestling to prioritize her health and well-being. The future holds many possibilities for the former Damage CTRL member now that she has stepped away from the WWE environment.
Anticipating Dakota Kai’s Return to Wrestling
Fans have eagerly awaited Dakota Kai’s return to the ring following her WWE exit. Their patience may soon be rewarded as Kai is scheduled to make her comeback at Pro Wrestling: EVE’s Wrestle Queendom VIII event in London, England. This match will mark her first in-ring appearance since her release.
On March 8, 2026, Kai will face Kris Statlander in a high-profile contest for the EVE International Championship. Wrestle Queendom VIII is set to be the largest independent all-women’s wrestling show in European history and will take place at the Indigo venue inside The O2 arena.
Kai’s upcoming match against Statlander will be their first-ever singles encounter, heightening anticipation among supporters. The event is expected to draw a sold-out crowd of roughly 1,200 fans, providing a highly charged atmosphere for this significant career moment.
From now on, Dakota Kai will perform under the ring name Charlie, signaling a new chapter in her wrestling career. The wrestling community is watching closely to see how she adapts and thrives in this fresh setting.
What Dakota Kai’s Return Means for Wrestling
Dakota Kai’s return to the wrestling scene comes after nearly a year away and is a promising development for her career and the broader women’s wrestling landscape. Her participation in Wrestle Queendom VIII underscores the growing prominence of women’s wrestling events outside the WWE system, especially in Europe.
By returning under the name Charlie, Kai appears ready to redefine herself and potentially explore new storylines and rivalries. Her upcoming match against Kris Statlander could set the stage for exciting future encounters and elevate her profile among independent wrestling fans.
As Dakota Kai resumes competition, many will be watching to see how she leverages this fresh beginning to rebuild her momentum and career after the challenges she faced with WWE. This return highlights the resilience required within the wrestling industry and the opportunities that arise beyond major promotions.
Charlie (FKA Dakota Kai) cut a promo for her return to the ring at Pro-Wrestling: EVE on March 8th against Kris Statlander
“I’ve had so much doubt about my place in wrestling, but this opportunity, it’s reigniting my passion.”
— WrestlePurists (@WrestlePurists) February 6, 2026
